Darien Soundings

Dear Darien,

I hope this newsletter finds you with your loved ones and in good health. None of us will soon forget April 2020. With all of the heartbreaking news that we see on a daily basis, I’d like to focus on some of the positive stories that have come out of this crisis. As a community and as a nation, we’ve been through a lot in the last 20 years; 9/11, the financial crisis of 2008, hurricanes Irene and Sandy, and now the coronavirus. The people, organizations and the Town of Darien have rallied like never before and it is not a shock to us that every time our community is in need, residents turn without second thought to help their neighbors, businesses and those suffering most.

Please continue supporting our small businesses, whether it’s ordering takeout or purchasing a gift certificate. They need our help now to ensure our community stays strong. If you're thinking of moving to our area, the Darien Board of Realtors is your greatest resource. Join our wonderful community right from our homepage! Visit darienrealtors.com for all things Darien. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

-Julie Peters, 2020 President Darien Board of REALTORS, Inc.

FACES: Julia Ambrosi

Julia Ambrosi, Connecticut native and Darien small business owner, began her career 18 years ago after graduating from Fairfield University. She began as a temporary employee at Williams & Company, an award-winning body and skincare clinic known for their focus on self-care and overall health and wellness. Julia slowly gained more and more responsibility throughout the years from founder Marylou Williams, who Julia says taught her how to run a business with fair ethics, moral and strength. When it came time for Marylou to retire, Julia was prepared. 18 years later, and she found herself ready to take on a new chapter.

Williams & Company has always had a strong interest in the Darien community and has had a seat on the Executive Board at the Chamber of Commerce for about 12 years. Julia currently serves as secretary and tries to volunteer as much as possible through Chamber events. She actively supports and donates to non-profit organizations, sports and schools with gift certificate donations and fundraisers throughout the year.

With the onset of small businesses struggling all over the country due to COVID-19, Julia is taking on a new challenge. While currently closed, she and the entire staff at Williams & Company are working tirelessly to provide the Darien community and beyond with products that will help them relieve stress, focus on their self-care and feel beautiful. Products are available at williamsandcompany.md/shop/, by calling and leaving a message at (203) 656-2363, or by emailing at info@williamsandcompany.md. Gift cards are also available online to help support the business during these difficult times.

PLACES: Darien COVID-19 Testing Site

On behalf of the Darien Board of Realtors and the Town of Darien, we would like to extend a thank you to all medical personnel, volunteers and other leaders in the fight to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community and across the nation.

On March 23rd, Darien opened its first COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Site at Darien High School. The site is managed by Murphy Medical Associates and will continue to offer testing each Monday from 1pm to 4pm by appointment and doctor’s order only.

HIGHLIGHTS: Darien Sidewalk Sales

Save the date! The Sidewalk Sales are returning to Darien on July 9th, 10th and 11th (pending COVID-19 updates). We can’t wait to take in the beautiful summer weather as we walk the town center to enjoy sales at all of our favorite shops, live music, contests, face-painting and more. Don’t miss out!