Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/996797
NORTHSHOREMAG.COM 36 JUNE + JULY 2018 PHOTOGRAPH BY ELISE SINAGRA / F A C E S + P L A C E S / a strong arts vibe, at least since the '60s, says John. "e beauty of this well-preserved 16th- century fishing village draws folks with a strong sense of aesthetic." One of the talented actors John has directed at the Marblehead Little eatre and Mugford Street Players is Dave Rich, who lives with his wife, Jennifer, in the enchanting and quirky Clifton Heights. In addition to their tight theater commu- nity, the couple enjoy their close-knit neighbor- hood, complete with a private rocky beach, annual July Horribles Parade with a marching band, neighborhood lobster bakes, and a small pond that freezes in the winter for ice skating. Long before Airbnb, the couple turned their light-filled in-law apartment into a one-room bed-and-breakfast. e first guest was a Buddhist monk, who blessed the restful space. Interestingly, the last place Jennifer imagined living when she was younger was the historic home, once a boarding house, that belonged to her mother. Like many in Clifton Heights, the Riches first used their home as a summer place. As a personal chef for a local family, Jennifer also bakes for her B&B guests and she makes sure they wake to homemade yogurt and frittatas. e couple often find themselves hosting those who are in town to sail. During the biennial Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race, says Jennifer, the whole town is "afloat with sailors from other parts of the world." Each July, the town is bursting with artists. As the oldest arts festival in the country, the Marblehead Festival of the Arts brings out painters, writers, actors, musicians, student artists, and this year a new digital exhibition. e massive celebration, which involves hundreds of volunteers, includes music concerts and film screenings in Crocker Park, overlooking scenic Marblehead Harbor. Kicking off the festival is the annual Cham- pagne Reception on June 24 this year at Fort Sewall. is historic fort has protected the town for centuries and is the site of annual Revolution- ary War reenactments by members of the modern-day Glover's Marblehead Regiment. "e Champagne Reception is an ideal opportunity to reconnect with friends, neigh- bors, and make new friends, while celebrating that summer has finally arrived and the 4th of July is upon us," says Joanne Smith, president of Marblehead Festival of Arts, Inc." itinerary YOUR MARBLEHEAD MUST-DO LIST SHOP Haley's Wines & Market Café A picture-perfect wine shop and cafe that has been featured in such films as Moonlight Mile with Jake Gyllenhaal. 114 Washington St., 781-631-0169, haley- swine.com Shubie's Founded in 1948, this mecca for wine, cheese, and prepared foods is now a 10,000-square-foot destination. For catering, gift baskets, and TGIF wine/cheese tastings. 16 Atlantic Ave., 781–631-0149, shubies.com She Adorable summer dresses, friendly staff, and a haute hippie assortment of bags, scarves, tops, etc. Fresh looks right in Old Town. 86 Washington St., 781-639-9800, shemarblehead .com Living Swell Living Swell is a lifestyle brand encompassing the easy elegance of living by the sea; Seaside Luxe. Here, you will find an ever-changing array of original art, photogra- phy, new and refur- bished furniture, wall coverings and textiles sold by the yard, and more. e boutique's distinctive products are hand chosen, some of which are created by local artisans, or designed by founder Diana James, which are beautiful, functional, and perhaps a little cheeky. James also offers interior design services. 34 Atlantic Ave., 781-990-5150, livingswell- marblehead.com DINE 5 Corners Kitchen Not a bad table in the place, but the bar offers instant community. From oysters to steak frites, the food is simple and delicious. Brunch is festive at this Marblehead staple. Living Swell offers beautiful home accessories.