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: Culture
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…
Iris Van Herpen Brooklyn Talks
Making it’s American debut, Iris van Herpen Brooklyn Talks drew a sold-out crowd. The artistic Brooklyn Museum setting filled with natural light and creative energy provided the perfect backdrop. American Express Platinum® and Centurion® provided their members with an exclusive experience.
Platinum Event: Tucci in Italy
The Social Diary attended the Platinum Event presentation of Tucci in Italy at the Crosby Hotel. Held within the hotel’s intimate 107-seat screening room, the evening offered a transportive introduction to Naples and the Campania region. Guided by Stanley Tucci, the series explores the people and traditions behind one of Italy’s most celebrated food cultures.
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.
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.
Redwood Library Garden Party
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!
Black Ships Festival Gala
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.









