Beyond Yelp – Luxury Hotels, Fine Dining, Black Tie Socials & More
The Social Diary welcomed another thrilling authors series, we aptly named, Thriller Panel and Tea, hosted by the Ocean House RI on October 26, 2025. Moreover, lucky for us, no “boxed lunch.” Additionally, Deborah Goodrich Royce was back to moderate!
Faxon Lodge in Newport Rhode Island held a private VIP Welcome Reception for Audrain Motor Week. More importantly, the City of Newport honoured their “adopted son.” Jay Leno Day in Newport launched on October 2, 2025. The proclamation recognises Mr. Leno’s immense contributions to the City.
Is this truly the end of an era? The final instalment of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale hits theatres this Friday, September 12th. But The Social Diary got a sneak peak in two continents. With multiple screenings, and our frequent flyer miles in tow, this story is definitely a “spoiler.” So, if you don’t like surprises, do not read beyond this opening paragraph. Plus Julian Fellowes thanks his Gosford Park beginnings.
The Social Diary enjoys a festive garden party, where a fashionable head topper is just as important as the attire! Therefore, The Redwood Library Garden Party in Newport this past Sunday did not disappoint! What a fantastic way to end the summer in Newport than with an early evening soirée among friends!
The 42nd Annual Black Ships Festival Gala held at Ochre Court in Newport on August 23rd was a delightful spectacle and a culinary treat. This Gilded Age edifice also made an appearance in Season 3 of The Gilded Age. Moreover, the Japan-America Society of Rhode Island rolled out the proverbial “red carpet” for the attendees. Likewise, the hospitality was first rate from beginning to end.
The Social Diary was back at The Elms for the Four-in-hand driving demonstration on Saturday, thus concluding “A Weekend of Coaching” for public consumption. It was the perfect weather…sort of…as the sun peaked, heating up the procession. The membership “tent” promised via email denied to many members! So members, including Premium level Patrons and Benefactors sat in the hot sun, whilst shaded under the tent were donors and invited guests!
Fans of the hit HBO period drama, The Gilded Age welcomed Christine Baranski to The Elms on Thursday, August 7th. The consummate actor brought light and humour, and insight to her character, Agnes van Rhijn. In season three of The Gilded Age, we see Mrs. van Rhijn adjusting to her new role.
The Social Diary spent the evening with the New York Times for an honest conversation about our Canine BFFs. Moreover, this was an American Express Platinum evening, In Celebration of Dogs.
Mrs. Dede Wilsey hosted Yappy Hour at Beaulieu Newport this past Sunday. A lovely garden party in support of Potter League for Animals, full of “puppy love,” delicious hors d’oeuvres, refreshing cocktails and funding for a great cause!
The Social Diary supports emerging artists. We attend many performances that may not have name recognition or public knowledge. Enthralled by the Pay No Heed opera at the Redwood Library last year, we looked forward to this new production.
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