Darien Soundings

Dear Darien,

Protect Your Investment! REALTORS® are in the business of helping people become homeowners and want to do everything they can to make sure you can afford to stay in your home. Since the outbreak of Covid-19 and the new spikes taking place across the country and in our own State it's more important now than ever to protect your investment. Working with trusted professionals like REALTORS® and housing counselors at HUD-approved agencies. This guide also provides information about payment options offered by lenders and tips for avoiding scams.

Faces: Kat, owner of Connecticut New Neighbors

Meet Kat, owner of Connecticut New Neighbors— an organization serving as a “welcome” for new families moving to Darien and New Canaan. Kat’s business was founded in 1960 by Linda Smith and was subsequently taken over by Susan Cator. In 2017, the reigns were passed to Kat who currently runs the business with the help of Ashley Griswold who focuses on Darien, and Sam Loomis, who focuses on New Canaan.

Kat is originally from Bryn Mawr outside of Philadelphia. “Like many others in this area,” Kat explains, “We moved to Darien in July 2012 from Manhattan. When we originally arrived in town, I remember being visited by Susan Cator. This was my first encounter with New Neighbors, and I found the service incredibly helpful. While we knew a handful of people in town who we could go to with questions, New Neighbors was instrumental in providing my family with some of the ins and outs of Darien. Following my meeting with Susan, I knew where I could find a dry cleaner, handyman, or even the best breakfast sandwich in town.”

The services provided by Connecticut New Neighbors are beneficial to both new residents and local businesses. “More often than not, people are flying blind when they move to Darien,” says Kat. “Our business provides them with a resource that makes their lives easier. Moving to a new town is a stressful experience, and we aim to make the transition seamless by providing guidance on everything the town has to offer.” From the perspective of local businesses, by partnering with New Neighbors, business owners are given immediate access to a steady flow of potential new customers via word of mouth and personal recommendations. Learn more about how New Neighbors can make your transition to Darien a seamless one! Email ctnewneighbors@gmail.com or visit their Instagram page at @newneighbors_ct.

Palmer’s Market

Palmer’s Market is the place to be for all things holiday season decor, food, baked goods, gifts, apparel and more! Plus, shop from the comfort of your home with grocery concierge services, curbside pickup, and delivery!
For more info, visit www.palmersdarien.com.

BITES: Baja Joe's

We had such a wonderful time attending the ribbon cutting and official grand opening of Baja Joe's!

This Tex-Mex Bistro is sure to be another Darien hit with their delicious selection of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, platillos, and Baja Bowls! Call them at 203-202-2518 or order DoorDash delivery at direct.chownow.com/order/24974/locations/36905.

HIGHLIGHTS: Warm

New York's favorite local shop, "Warm" is here in Darien! Who's ready for the perfect gifts, the prettiest dresses, and the best vibes? And just in time for the holidays! They will be opening up near Sugar Bowl on the Post Rd. Visit shopwarm.com to take a look at what's in store.

BLISS: Tiffani Djiounas

Meet local photographer Tiffani Djiounas of @tiffani_photography 📸 Like many current residents, Tiffani joined the Darien community after a move to NYC teaching elementary students. After starting a family, she decided to move to Darien which she describes as the “perfect place to raise a family.”

After becoming a mom Tiffani wanted to slow things down and “freeze moments” which led to her love of photography. “For years it was a hobby for me,” says Tiffani, “I took several classes, practiced on friends and my own little ones. About a year and a half ago I decided to launch my business, Tiffani Photography. I wanted to share my love for capturing connection and natural moments with other families. Through my business I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people.”

As a member of the Darien community, Tiffani has partnered with organizations such as the Darien Nature Center to support their fundraising efforts by donating photography sessions. She has also donated sessions to various schools in town.

Tiffani is currently shooting sessions utilizing social distancing. She has spent much of her time thinking about how important photos are with loved ones.

“We missed grandparents so much during those spring months,” says Tiffani, “I am encouraging people to schedule family sessions and grandparent sessions to capture these important relationships.”

Looking to book for the holiday season? Schedule your shoot at www.tiffaniphoto.com.

Contact Us

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    Darien Board of Realtors®

    5 Brook Street, Suite 2-D

    Darien, CT 06820

    (203) 655-3700 info@darienboard.com