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Setting the Table with the Hunt Slonem Pop-Up Shop

If you’re looking to add a splash of vibrant art to your dining experience, the Hunt Slonem Pop-Up Shop offers a delightful fusion of fine art and functional design. Renowned for his neo-expressionist paintings of bunnies, butterflies, and birds, Hunt Slonem brings his iconic motifs to a curated collection of home goods that transform everyday moments into artistic expressions.

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🎨 The Artistic Vision Behind the Collection

Hunt Slonem’s artwork is celebrated for its vivid colors and whimsical subjects. His fascination with nature and repetition manifests in patterns that are both playful and sophisticated. This collection captures the essence of his paintings, allowing you to incorporate his distinctive style into your home decor.


🍽️ Elevate Your Dining Experience

Tabletop Treasures

  • Dinner Plates: Featuring Slonem’s signature bunny designs, these plates are perfect for adding a touch of charm to any meal.
  • Accent Plates: Ideal for appetizers or desserts, these plates showcase intricate butterfly and bird motifs.
  • Portrait Plates: With hand-painted gold rims, these plates double as art pieces and functional dishware.

Serveware and Glassware

  • Bowls and Serveware: Adorned with Slonem’s vibrant patterns, these pieces make serving meals a visual delight.
  • Glassware: Etched with delicate designs, these glasses add elegance to any table setting.

Table Linens

  • Placemats and Napkins: Crafted from high-quality fabrics, these linens feature Slonem’s motifs, bringing cohesion and style to your dining table.
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🛋️ Beyond the Table: Home Decor Highlights

Pillows and Throws

  • Add comfort and color to your living spaces with pillows and throws that showcase Slonem’s artistic flair.

Lacquer Boxes and Trays

  • These functional pieces double as art, perfect for organizing while adding a decorative touch.

Sculptures and Prints

  • Bring Slonem’s art into your home with sculptures and prints that reflect his unique style.
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🎁 Thoughtful Gifts and Collectibles

Whether you’re shopping for a special occasion or looking to treat yourself, the collection offers a range of gift-worthy items. From stationery collaborations with Dempsey & Carroll to scented candles in art-adorned boxes, there’s something for every art enthusiast.


🛍️ Experience the Collection

The Hunt Slonem Pop-Up Shop is more than just a retail space; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the intersection of art and everyday life. By bringing Slonem’s vibrant designs into your home, you invite a sense of joy and creativity into your daily routines.

Explore the full collection and discover how you can set your table with art at The Hop Up Shop.

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🎇 A Party That’s a Piece of Cake — Just Add Friends and Fireworks!

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Planning a celebration should feel as joyful as the party itself—and that’s exactly the magic behind Piece of Cake. Founded by two stylish friends with a serious love for entertaining, Piece of Cake was created to take the stress out of party planning and put the fun right back in.

Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash, backyard gathering, or an impromptu picnic, Piece of Cake delivers ready-to-go curated party kits that are equal parts chic, convenient, and celebration-ready. Each set is beautifully packaged, thoughtfully designed, and includes everything you need—so all you have to do is unpack, set up, and let the good times roll. Think of it as your party-in-a-box fairy godmother.


🧨 Their Must-Have: The Fireworks Picnic Tote for 8

Just in time for 4th of July festivities, Piece of Cake’s Fireworks Picnic Tote is the ultimate grab-and-go party essential. Whether you’re headed to a beach bonfire, a rooftop barbecue, or your own backyard, this tote has everything you need to celebrate in star-spangled style.

What’s included in this showstopper set?

  • A festive red-and-blue fireworks motif across plates, cups, and napkins
  • A stylish striped tray (that doubles as a charcuterie board!)
  • Two ceramic bowls for dips, snacks, or sides
  • Full cutlery sets for 8 guests
  • All packed in a custom heavy-duty tote with pockets and insulated compartments for drinks or cold bites

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Why Everyone’s Obsessed

✨ Instant Style: Every single item coordinates for that magazine-worthy picnic look
✨ Easy Clean-Up: With reusable pieces and a tote to store it all, it’s a hostess’s dream
✨ Perfect for Gifting: Heading to someone else’s 4th of July bash? Bring this as the ultimate party favor


💥 The Perfect 4th of July Companion

Whether you’re planning a family picnic or a fireworks-viewing soirée, this tote lets you skip the prep work and jump right into the fun. It’s festive without being over-the-top, functional without sacrificing style, and most importantly—totally stress-free. Just add burgers, bubbly, and your favorite people.

So if you’re ready to host with flair and ease this Independence Day, Piece of Cake has your party plans in the bag—literally.

👉 Grab the Fireworks Picnic Tote Set for 8 right here before it sells out!

Final Phase of Kingfish Bay Offers Rare Opportunity for Luxury Waterfront Living Near Sunset Beach

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For those dreaming of owning a coastal retreat that blends laid-back luxury with breathtaking natural beauty, the final phase of Kingfish Bay presents a truly rare opportunity. This private, 60-acre gated community in Calabash, North Carolina, is now offering a limited release of homesites—some with direct water access and private dock potential—perfect for those seeking a custom-built waterfront haven just minutes from Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle.

Discover the Art of Coastal Living

Tucked along the serene banks of the Calabash River and within easy reach of the Intracoastal Waterway, Kingfish Bay is an intimate, master-planned community designed with the discerning homeowner in mind. It offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil, nature-filled setting with walkable water access, plus proximity to vibrant hubs like Myrtle Beach (30 mins), Wilmington (1 hour), and even Charlotte and Raleigh (3 hours) for easy getaways or travel.

Kingfish Bay Clubhouse

A Wellness-Focused, Amenity-Rich Escape

Life at Kingfish Bay is built around wellness, relaxation, and connection to nature. Residents enjoy an array of thoughtfully curated amenities, including:

  • 🌿 A Private Riverfront Park with scenic viewing decks, firepits, bocce ball, fishing access, and a spacious pier for leisurely waterfront moments
  • 🏋️‍♀️ An elegant Owners’ Clubhouse featuring a modern fitness center, lounge, cinema room, and catering kitchen for hosting
  • 🏖 A tropical-style pool complex with hot tub and inviting gathering areas
  • 🌊 An exclusive oceanfront clubhouse on Sunset Beach with complimentary parking, private showers, kitchen, and sweeping Atlantic views

Whether you’re looking to unwind by the pool, enjoy a peaceful sunrise walk, or gather with friends for a sunset cocktail by the water, this is a community that invites you to slow down and truly live.

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Custom Homes as Unique as You

Buyers at Kingfish Bay can design a residence that reflects their own style and rhythm. Choose from professionally curated home plans up to 3,500 sq. ft., or collaborate with the developer on a fully custom design—from floor plan to finishes, with individual pool packages and luxe outdoor living areas available.

From airy single-story escapes perfect for entertaining, to multi-level homes with panoramic river views, these homes combine timeless coastal architecture with modern comforts and elegance.

A New Chapter Starts Here

For many, Kingfish Bay is more than just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive.

“After retiring from Boone, NC where we lived for 31 years, we made the move to Kingfish Bay, and it’s been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made,” shared resident Martha Horne, who moved to the community with her husband Greg in 2024. “We’ve been enjoying the incredible amenities in this beautiful, resort-style setting all right at our fingertips. It’s a vibrant, active community filled with welcoming and friendly neighbors. We’re truly thankful, and absolutely thrilled, that we chose to call Kingfish Bay home.”

Final Phase — Limited Homesites Available

This final chapter of development features a select number of homes ranging from $399,000 for bungalows with nature preserve views, to $3,000,000 for expansive waterfront estates with riparian rights and private dock potential.

Whether you’re planning for retirement, looking for a second home, or making a full-time move to the coast, now is the time to claim your place in one of North Carolina’s most sought-after waterfront communities.

👉 Schedule a tour or learn more at: www.kingfishbaydevelopment.com


About Kingfish Bay

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Kingfish Bay is a gated waterfront community in Calabash, NC, offering custom coastal living infused with nature, luxury, and serenity. Just minutes from Sunset Beach, it features premier amenities, direct water access, and homes tailored to fit a resort-style lifestyle.


🛠️ Award-Winning Design
As a testament to its quality and vision, Kingfish Bay’s Palm Beach II model recently won Best Outdoor Living Home and the Silver Award for Detached Homes in the $840,000–$870,000 range at the 2025 Wilmington-Cape Fear Parade of Homes—proof that this community is not just beautiful, but built to impress.

#LiveKingfishBay #CoastalLivingRedefined

Your Guide to Chemical Peels: Understanding Professional vs. At-Home Treatments and Top Picks to Try Now

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Chemical peels, once a treatment only available in dermatologist offices, can now be safely done at home and easily integrated into your skincare regimen. Having personally experimented with various at-home chemical peels and experienced professional treatments administered in clinical settings, I can confidently say that chemical peels are transformative for achieving clear, radiant skin.

These peels contain different concentrations of exfoliating acids designed to address concerns such as dark spots, acne, fine lines, enlarged pores, and uneven texture. With so many options—both professional and at-home—it can be challenging to decide which one suits you best.

When deciding between at-home or professional chemical peels (or even a combination of both), I consulted multiple dermatologists to clarify the distinctions. Below, they explain the basics, differences, recommended products, and how to safely apply professional-strength peels yourself.

What Exactly is a Chemical Peel?
“A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure involving the application of a chemical solution to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells from the surface,” explains Connie Yang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. These treatments can be done at home or under medical supervision. (At-home formulas typically contain milder concentrations of active ingredients.) The most common acids found in chemical peels include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acid; beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) such as salicylic acid; and polyhydroxy acids like gluconolactone and lactobionic acid. Some peels also feature retinoids and fruit enzymes that provide gentle exfoliation, adds Dr. Yang.

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By shedding the top layer of skin, chemical peels reveal fresher, smoother skin underneath. “This process unclogs pores, reduces acne outbreaks, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and evens out skin texture,” says Hadley King, MD, also a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. The fresh skin layer is more receptive to hydration, which helps plump and rejuvenate the skin. “With regular use, chemical exfoliants boost cell turnover and stimulate collagen production,” Dr. King adds. Though most often applied to the face, chemical peels can also benefit other body areas.

Rolanna, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SI Glam Glow Skincare & Esthetics in Staten Island, NY, highlights the broader benefits of chemical peels. Serving clients across Staten Island and neighboring Brooklyn, she emphasizes that chemical peels do much more than improve skin texture. “They actively promote overall skin health by stimulating the skin’s natural regeneration processes,” Rolanna explains. She adds that when chemical peels are carefully selected and properly used, they become a highly effective tool for preserving youthful, radiant skin. For those seeking long-term skin vitality, peels can be an essential part of a skincare routine in both Staten Island and Brooklyn communities.

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How Do At-Home and Professional Chemical Peels Differ?

The key distinction lies in the strength of AHAs and BHAs used, which determines how deeply the peel penetrates the skin, says Terence Keaney, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, D.C. Professional peels tend to be stronger, reaching deeper layers and delivering more pronounced results but require medical supervision due to higher risks. In contrast, at-home peels work on the skin’s surface to exfoliate dead cells safely. “An effective at-home peel should strike a balance—potent enough to work but gentle enough to be safe,” notes Dr. King.

Both at-home and professional peels can improve your skin, but results vary based on ingredients and strength. At-home treatments typically brighten the complexion, smooth texture, and reduce pigmentation. “Repeated use results in a smoother, glowing complexion, often with a noticeable glow the day after treatment,” Dr. Yang says. Those with acne may find at-home peels helpful in clearing clogged pores and reducing mild breakouts.

Professional peels, however, tend to yield more dramatic improvements but often come with some downtime such as redness, peeling, or flaking. “People dealing with melasma, significant sun damage, or deeper wrinkles will benefit most from professional-strength peels,” Dr. Yang explains.

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What Are the Different Types of Chemical Peel Strengths?
Chemical peels are categorized based on how deeply they penetrate the skin, which depends on the concentration of active exfoliating acids:

  • Mild Peels: These are typical of most at-home peels and exfoliate only the skin’s surface. Professional mild peels have higher concentrations and penetrate slightly deeper, helping treat mild acne and pigmentation. They promote radiant, smoother skin but require multiple sessions for best results. Mild peels may cause minimal redness or peeling lasting a day or two.
  • Medium Peels: These contain higher levels of AHAs and BHAs, including ingredients like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and Jessner’s solution (a mix of salicylic, lactic acid, and resorcinol). They target acne-prone skin, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and surface wrinkles. Medium peels can be repeated every few months or performed in a series, with downtime lasting about 3 to 7 days involving redness and peeling.
  • Deep Peels: Reserved for serious skin concerns, deep peels such as phenol peels are conducted exclusively in medical settings. These deliver significant results like reducing deep wrinkles, scars, and sun damage, and tightening skin. However, they carry higher risks including heart complications and require substantial recovery. Risks also include scarring and infection if done improperly.

Is Doing a Chemical Peel at Home Safe?
Yes, at-home chemical peels are generally safe when used correctly. However, because they involve acids, caution is necessary to avoid irritation or burns. Even mild at-home peels can cause issues if left on too long or used too frequently.

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Dr. Keaney advises using only superficial peels with low concentrations of AHAs or BHAs at home, following instructions carefully, and performing a patch test beforehand. Avoid combining peels with other strong active ingredients like retinol or benzoyl peroxide around the time of treatment. “Do not use a chemical peel if your skin is sunburned, irritated, or if you’re taking acne medications like isotretinoin,” he warns. When unsure, consulting a dermatologist is always best.

How to Perform a Chemical Peel at Home
Set realistic expectations for what an at-home peel can do: immediate results may be subtle, but consistent weekly use yields better skin over time.

Start with clean, dry skin free of irritation or wounds. Dr. Yang suggests protecting sensitive areas like the corners of your mouth and around your nose with a barrier cream or Vaseline. Carefully apply a thin layer of the peel—avoiding your eyes—using fingertips or a brush, and leave it on as directed. Rinse with lukewarm water or as instructed, then follow with gentle skincare products that support healing and protect your skin barrier. Avoid irritating products, opt for creamy cleansers that don’t strip moisture, and moisturize with formulas containing humectants, emollients, and occlusives, recommends Dr. King. Use the peel as directed—no more than once a week for sensitive skin.

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As someone who frequently uses chemical peels, I personally apply one to two times weekly to maintain smooth skin and manage melasma spots. While I manage my melasma through a combination of topical products, in-office laser treatments, and oral medications like tranexamic acid, at-home chemical peels remain a vital part of my routine for radiant, clear skin.

One favorite is UBeauty’s Resurfacing Flash Peel, which I use once or twice weekly when my skin needs a boost. It contains retinyl palmitate (a retinol form) to promote cell turnover. I appreciate that it delivers clinical-quality results at home without irritation. “Its patented capsule technology allows precise ingredient delivery to minimize irritation while exfoliating effectively without damaging the skin barrier,” says Dr. Yang. After about 15 minutes, my face feels clean, dark spots look lighter, and fine lines seem diminished—all without redness or irritation, unlike some other at-home peels I’ve tried.

In Summary:
Chemical peels truly work, whether done at home or in a medical setting. The intensity of your peel will influence the results you see. For mild skin concerns, at-home peels are a convenient, effective addition to your skincare routine. If you have deeper issues requiring more intensive treatment, professional peels offer a customizable solution with stronger outcomes.

Expert Contributors:

  • Connie Yang, MD: Board-certified dermatologist practicing at PFRANKMD in New York City and clinical assistant professor at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dermatology.
  • Rolanna, MD: Board-certified dermatologist and founder of SI Glam Glow Skincare & Esthetics in Staten Island, NY.
  • Hadley King, MD: Board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology, based in New York City.
  • Terence Keaney, MD: Board-certified dermatologist and founder of SkinDC in Washington, D.C.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Red, White and Views: Fourth of July Fireworks

South Street Seaport Museum announces Red, White & Views: Fourth of July Fireworks on Friday, July 4, 2025. This dazzling evening on the waterfront starts at 6:30 p.m. at Pier 16. Early bird tickets are now available for $75–$95; get them while they last! seaportmuseum.org/fourth-of-july-fireworks

Enjoy one of New York City’s most iconic fireworks displays from a truly special vantage point. Set along the East River, the Museum’s historic Pier 16 offers unparalleled front-row views of the 49th edition of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks®, which will launch from the Brooklyn Bridge and four barges stretching right in front of the Museum, from the bridge to Pier 6.

Bring your friends, family, and festive spirit for this backyard-style Independence Day celebration filled with excitement, color, and the thrill of fireworks lighting up the New York City skyline. There are two viewing areas to choose from at Pier 16—Red and Blue. Both areas promise great views and an incredible waterfront experience.

This is an all-ages experience you won’t want to miss. Take advantage of early-bird tickets now and get ready to enjoy your glowing evening on Pier 16. Access to the pier will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the sky comes alive with fireworks from 9:25 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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Advanced registration is required. Details about timing and how to access the celebration will be emailed to ticket holders closer to the date of the event, once all security check points have been set by the NYPD. This event is rain or shine and all tickets are non-refundable. Tickets are limited, and space within the Red and Blue viewing areas is available on a first-come, first-served basis for respective ticket holders.

The Seaport Museum is also offering two unique opportunities to host your own private Fourth of July celebration on a historic ship!

Independence Day Pioneer Charter

Celebrate the Fourth of July in unforgettable style with a private charter aboard the 1885 schooner Pioneer! Together with up to 36 of your friends and family, the deck of this historic ship will become your exclusive front-row seat to New York City’s legendary Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® display. With the skyline as your backdrop and fireworks lighting up the night, this experience promises an evening of magic. Don’t miss this opportunity—inquire now to reserve your exclusive Independence Day charter! This charter fee starts at $8,000. Email charters@seany.org to learn more.

Make Wavertree Your Exclusive Party Destination

This Independence Day, make the 1885 tall ship Wavertree your exclusive event destination! Moored along the southern edge of Pier 16, this magnificent, three-masted vessel—listed on the National Register of Historic Places—offers a stunning waterfront setting and unbeatable views of the iconic Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® display. Whether you’re planning an epic gathering with hundreds of friends and family or an impressive corporate event, Wavertree sets the stage for a night to remember. From full bars to passed hors d’oeuvres, your vision can come to life aboard this historic tall ship. This rental fee starts at $30,000. Email events@seany.org to learn more.

About the South Street Seaport Museum

The South Street Seaport Museum, located in the heart of the historic seaport district in New York City, preserves and interprets the history of New York as a great port city. Founded in 1967, the Museum houses an extensive collection of works of art and artifacts, a maritime reference library, exhibition galleries and education spaces, working 19th century print shops, and an active fleet of historic vessels that all work to tell the story of “Where New York Begins.” seaportmuseum.org

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🎓 Celebrate Graduation 2025 with Reinstein Ross Heirloom Gifts

Graduation marks a significant milestone—a culmination of hard work, dedication, and the beginning of a new chapter. What better way to honor this achievement than with a timeless piece from Reinstein Ross’s 2025 Graduation Collection? Handcrafted in New York City, each piece is designed to be an heirloom, symbolizing the graduate’s journey and future aspirations.


👩‍🎓 For Her: Elegance Meets Artistry

Reinstein Ross offers a curated selection of jewelry for her that combines classic elegance with modern design. Crafted with proprietary gold alloys and ethically sourced gemstones, these pieces are both beautiful and meaningful.

🌟 Featured Selections:

  • Diamond Match™ Collection: This collection showcases exquisite diamond pieces set in Reinstein Ross’s signature gold alloys. The designs are both modern and timeless, making them perfect for a graduate stepping into a new chapter.
  • Isabella Collection: Featuring delicate chains and gemstone accents, the Isabella pieces are subtle yet sophisticated, ideal for daily wear or special occasions.
  • Garland Collection: Inspired by natural motifs, these pieces incorporate floral and leafy designs, symbolizing growth and new beginnings.
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👨‍🎓 For Him: Understated Sophistication

Reinstein Ross’s men’s collection offers refined pieces that exude confidence and style. Each item is handcrafted, ensuring that your gift is as unique as the graduate himself.

🌟 Featured Selections:

  • Sonoma “Yamuna” Diamond Pendant in 20K Peach Gold: This pendant features a harmonious blend of classic design and modern aesthetics. The 20K Peach Gold setting accentuates the brilliance of the diamond, making it a versatile piece suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
  • Sonoma Mixed Link Two-Tone Necklace in 22K Apricot Gold and 18K Alpine Gold: A statement piece that combines two of Reinstein Ross’s signature gold alloys. The interplay of Apricot and Alpine Gold in mixed links offers a contemporary twist on a classic design, perfect for the graduate who appreciates nuanced craftsmanship.
  • Hitched Duet “Narrow and Regular Three Row Braid” Band in 22K Apricot Gold and 18K Alpine Gold: This band showcases intricate braiding techniques, symbolizing the intertwining paths of past achievements and future endeavors. The dual-tone gold adds depth and character, making it a meaningful gift for this significant milestone.
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🌟 Why Choose Reinstein Ross?

  • Artisanal Craftsmanship: Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in their New York City workshop, ensuring quality and uniqueness.
  • Signature Gold Alloys: Reinstein Ross is renowned for their proprietary gold alloys, including Peach Gold and Apricot Gold, offering distinctive hues not found elsewhere.
  • Ethical Sourcing: They prioritize ethically sourced gemstones and sustainable practices, so you can feel good about your purchase.
  • Customization Options: For a truly personal gift, consider customizing a piece to include the graduate’s initials or graduation date.

🎁 Making the Moment Memorable

Presenting a Reinstein Ross piece isn’t just about the jewelry; it’s about the experience. Each item comes in elegant packaging, ready to gift, and serves as a lasting reminder of a significant achievement.

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🛍️ Explore the Collection

Ready to find the perfect graduation gift? Visit the Reinstein Ross Graduation 2025 Collection to browse their full range of offerings. Whether you’re celebrating a daughter, son, friend, or partner, a piece from Reinstein Ross is a meaningful way to commemorate their accomplishment.


Celebrate the graduate in your life with a gift that transcends time—a symbol of their hard work and the bright future ahead.