July was literary month in Rhode Island from Luanne Rice to Jenna Bush Hager. Moreover, two sold-out events held just two weeks apart, celebrated the joy of reading and storytelling. From Luanne Rice’s appearance at the Ocean House on July 1st and; Jenna Bush Hager’s visit to the United Theatre on July 16th. Readers enjoyed an unforgettable month of literary conversation.
Category: Community
Bruce Springsteen and Bono at Tribeca
An Evening with Bruce Springsteen, Bono, and Patti Smith at Tribeca. As part of the 25th anniversary celebration of the Tribeca Festival, we attended a special evening honouring Bruce Springsteen. He received the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award. The event took place at BMCC in lower Manhattan. After September 11th, the Tribeca Festival…
A Conversation with Belle Burden on Strangers
The Social Diary attended a conversation with Belle Burden on Strangers, alongside women drawn to the subject for personal reasons. Moreover, it reads less like a memoir and more like a touchstone. It resonates with women navigating infidelity and divorce because it reflects an experience many recognise, but few articulate.
Three Wedding Shows in March
This month marked the official kickoff to wedding season. Moreover, this was an immersive showcase of bridal fashion, beauty, culinary design, multi-tiered cakes, florals, and elevated table settings set the standards. And, as expected, The Social Diary was front and centre at three wedding shows in March.
Black & White: United 1926
Flappers and The Great Gatsby set converged at the Ocean House in Watch Hill Rhode Island in celebration of the Black & White Ball: United 1926!
Chef Jacques Pépin at 90
The Social Diary joined in the festivities of the Christmas season, with a warm gathering, during a cold winter’s evening, to celebrate Chef Jacques Pépin at 90. Besides, celebrations have been under way at other notable venues to recognise this legendary chef as he turns 90 years young on December 18th 2025!
Happy Birthday Chef Jacques Pépin!
James Beard Foundation Gala
The James Beard Foundation Gala kicked off on Friday November 7th. The Pierre, a Taj Hotel in New York City hosted this black tie extravaganza. This year, the JBF Gala for Good celebrated the 39th anniversary of the founding of the James Beard Foundation. JBF honoured visionary Chef Marcus Samuelsson and Colossal Impact at this year’s event.
Thriller Panel and Tea
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!
Jay Leno Day In Newport
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.
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale
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.









