Savoring the Last Days of Summer and Embracing the Fall Frenzy… As the laid-back days of summer begin to wane, we find ourselves gearing up for our busy fall schedules. Students are heading back to school, parent meetings are filling up the calendar, and carpools and activities are ramping up. But with this shift, we also get to enjoy the excitement of fall sports, cooler weather, and of course, it’s time to tailgate! Tailgating is one of the best ways to celebrate the beginning of fall. It combines our love for sports with the joy of sharing fun outings and good food. To make tailgating coordination simple, we have created school-specific boxes that contain essentials to make event preparations easier. Here are some essentials for a successful tailgating event: Food and Snacks: The heart of any tailgate party is the food. We love preparing pulled pork slider sandwiches that are always a hit. We make ours with smoked port butt, apple slaw and pickles. Here is our go to “secret rub” –Rendezvous Famous Barbeque Dry Rub Seasoning. Pair them with a variety of salads, chips, and snack mix for easy munching. For something sweet, mini trifle cups and cookies are perfect treats that everyone will enjoy. Tailgate essentials: Folding tables, tableclothes, covered serving platters, serving trays, plates, napkins, cups, utensils (serving and eating), drink dispensers (hot/cold), condiments and plastic wrap/containers for easy clean-up. Team Spirit Décor and Attire: Show your team pride by decorating your tailgate with accessories like pennants, banners, and paper products that feature your favorite team’s logo and color scheme. You may want to wear team jerseys, t-shirts, or even themed accessories. At tailgate parties, some diehard fans get creative with their game day attire, adding a fun and festive atmosphere to the event. Comfortable Seating and Shade: Make sure to bring plenty of chairs and a canopy or tent for shade. Don’t forget blankets later in the season. Tailgating can be an all-day affair, so comfort is key to enjoying the festivities. Games and Entertainment: Keep everyone entertained with music and classic tailgating games like cornhole, ladder toss, or a simple football toss. We also add chalk for the kids to customize the ground in your space. These activities are great for keeping the energy high and the spirits lively. Coolers and Drinks: A well-stocked cooler with a variety of beverages is essential. Include water, sodas, and your favorite adult beverages to keep everyone hydrated and happy. Make sure to have wipes, towels, and garbage bags in your tailgating box to keep your area clean and make packing up is easier for everyone. As we embrace the cooler weather and the thrill of fall sports, tailgating becomes a cherished tradition. It’s a time to come together with friends and family, celebrate our favorite teams, and enjoy the delicious food that makes these gatherings special. We created a Tailgate Essentials Checklist to make your game day preparations easier. So, as you pack up your tailgating gear and prepare for the fall frenzy, remember to savor every moment. The return of fall brings with it a sense of excitement and community that makes this time of year truly special. Here’s to successful tailgating, unforgettable sporting events, and a fantastic start to the new season! It’s time to tailgate and cheer on your favorite teams!
Adventures/Travel
Nantucket Weekend Getaway…
A Laid-Back, Coastal Chic Island… If you’re looking for the perfect long weekend getaway, Nantucket is calling your name. The Labor Day weekend is a great time to be on this island. Nantucket is located 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This enchanting 14 mile long island boasts a laid-back, coastal chic atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing escape. From its famous nautical style, rich history, and culinary treats, Nantucket is a true gem. Although the island has seen some changes over the years, it’s still an oasis with plenty of beaches that everyone can respect and enjoy. We’ve provided some of our favorite highlights and dining recommendations to make your Nantucket weekend getaway unforgettable. Nantucket’s charm lies in its timeless beauty and effortless elegance. Picture a stroll along cobblestone streets past local shops, galleries, and boutiques, all steeped in classic New England architecture. Sandals are a must here, there’s no place for fancy high heals when getting to know the island. White jeans or Nantucket Reds and rolled up sleeves are a must over the almost illegal black attire found back on the mainland. This place is “nauti-casual” in almost every sense. Our travel style guide helps you prepare for your Nantucket weekend getaway. The island is known as the Gray Lady because most of the houses are covered in weather-beaten cedar shingles that take on a wonderful gray patina over time. The island’s also adorned with stunning hydrangeas and beautiful flowers that seem to pop through every fence and hanging planter around each corner. The island vibe creates a picturesque scene that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll in town or a bike ride out to Siasconset (generally shortened to Sconset by locals). Start your mornings with a hearty breakfast at Black-Eyed Susan’s. We’ve been going here for over 25 years, and it never disappoints. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and delicious breakfast options make it the perfect spot to begin your day. For lunch, head to Bartlett’s Farm for a great take away lunch if your headed to the beach or on a picnic or 167 Raw is a fav sit down option. Both of these spots offer great sandwiches and reasonably priced lunch options (by ACK standards). 167 may just have one of the best lobster rolls on the island. It’s an ideal place to enjoy fresh, local seafood in a relaxing laid-back environment. Dinner and drinks at Cru is pricey but special. Located right on the waterfront, Cru offers stunning views and a menu that celebrates the best of coastal cuisine. It’s a perfect spot to unwind with one of their signature cocktails, like the Green Flash made with Gray Whale gin, as you take in the sunset. If your looking for a sweet treat and love homemade ice cream, don’t miss The Juice Bar. Nantucket’s coastal chic style is evident everywhere you look. From the nautical-themed décor in restaurants to the effortlessly stylish locals, the island exudes a sense of relaxed sophistication. Take a boat ride and see the island from the water including the Brant Point Lighthouse, tour the whaling museum, soak in the everlasting charm of the cobblestone streets, and don’t forget to count the number of vintage cars, including the iconic Grand Wagoneer, that you see—we’re still working on restoring ours (more about that project in a future post)! The island’s natural beauty, combined with its high-end yet laid-back style, makes Nantucket a dream destination. Whether you’re exploring by bike, enjoying the amazing seafood, or simply relaxing by the water, every moment spent here is a chance to create lasting memories. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the coastal chic charm of Nantucket. It’s a place that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return.
