Inbox Spring 2025

Still looking for that perfect fit for your child’s education? Dedham Country Day School accepts rolling admissions applications. Connect with their admissions team to have your questions answered or to schedule a personal tour. It’s not too late to learn more and join the fun! For more information, visit www.DedhamCountryDay.org.

This winter, Synergy Private Health launched the expansion of its wellness offerings with new Integrative Services.  In addition to culinary medicine classes, health coaching, and fitness training, members can now enjoy massage, reiki, breath-as-medicine/pranayama, yoga, and more, all designed to enhance their wellness journey. These offerings provide direct access to trusted, highest quality, vetted providers right at Synergy, complementing existing memberships with holistic treatments and programs. Integrative services can be booked directly at https://www.synergyprivatehealth.com/integrative-services.

Premier Dental Group of Wellesley recently welcomed Dr. Zoe Corner to the practice. Dr. Corner is a Wayland native who earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She is passionate about cosmetic and restorative dentistry and believes her role as a dentist is to help her patients stay healthy, speak with confidence, enjoy meals with loved ones, and share their smile and laughter generously. She remains dedicated to staying current with dental advancements with of continuing education. To learn more, please visit www.premierdentalgroupofwellesley.com.

 Aleksandra Hussain has joined Lux Bond & Green‘s corporate team as sales training manager. In this role, she will lead the implementation of luxury and hospitality standards across all store locations, including Wellesley. Aleksandra brings extensive expertise from her previous roles in the luxury vehicle and jewelry industries.

Platt Builders collaborated with Sage Conti Design on yet another award-winning home renovation that was recently honored at the annual BRAGB Prism Awards Gala. The Prism Awards honor excellence in building and design throughout Greater Boston. The Platt team has been building and renovating homes since 1992 and are known for their attention to detail and working with the best architects and designers in the area to create the home of your dreams.”

With a Bulfinch Award, a Best of Boston Home Award, a Top Coastal Architects Award, and a Banker and Tradesman medal for Best Residential Architect, 2024 was a banner year for Patrick Ahearn Architect.  The firm is grateful to clients who entrust them to design residences of distinction and applaud the builders, designers, landscape professionals, and trades who help bring the work to life. 

Carpenter & MacNeille Architects and Builders, located in Essex and Wellesley, is pleased to announce their Best of Boston Home 2025 Award for High-End Home Remodeling. Boston Home editors state, “This firm has an intrinsic understating of New England architecture … they take great care to honor both your wishes and the vernacular of your home when undertaking a project.” The award reflects the excellence to which C&M always aspires when designing, building, and restoring homes for clients throughout the region. Please visit www.carpentermacneille.com for more details.

Alexis Avila, founder and CEO of Prepped and Polished Tutoring, Test Prep, Executive Function Coaching, and Admissions Consulting at 462 Washington Street, celebrated 23 full academic calendar years as a private tutor. Since 2002, Alexis and his team have grown to over 50 tutors serving Wellesley and surrounding towns. For one to one tutoring either in person or online, please email alexis@preppedandpolished.com or visit www.preppedandpolished.com

Debi Benoit has been inducted into the prestigious Club Two Billion by Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate for achieving an extraordinary $2,000,000,000 in career sales. This remarkable accomplishment highlights her exceptional expertise, dedication, and unmatched success in the luxury real estate market. Debi’s inclusion in this exclusive club solidifies her status as one of the top real estate professionals globally, continuing to set the standard for excellence and innovation in the industry.

Renjeau Galleries is celebrating 48 years as one of the premier art galleries in the Boston area. Renjeau offers a large selection of contemporary and traditional fine art by both established and emerging artists from Massachusetts, around the United States, and abroad. Renjeau’s comprehensive collection includes everything from traditional to contemporary and abstract artwork available for purchase across a wide price range. Renjeau also offers custom framing and art restoration services. Visit them in Natick or online at www.renjeau.com.

Sorin Farcas, owner and civil engineer at Sordan Construction Inc., a premier commercial and residential construction and remodeling company, is looking forward to another great year of providing exceptional service and the highest-quality craftsmanship to their clients in the Greater Boston area. The entire Sordan team is also excited to make an even greater impact in the community by supporting nonprofit organizations that focus on nursing facilities, the homeless population, and those that foster housing and special needs children services.

Boston Center for Plastic Surgery is relocating from Brookline to The Street in Chestnut Hill in early 2025. This brand new, expanded location is designed for the team to offer premier aesthetic services, including plastic surgery for the entire body, cosmetic dermatology, and rejuvenation treatments. The move marks an exciting new chapter in the exceptional care and clinical expertise offered to current and new patients.  For more information, visit bostoncenterforplasticsurgery.com.

Fallon Custom Homes is excited to announce the hiring of Juela Hysko and Anamaria Munar to their team at Fallon Fine Cabinetry. The award-winning cabinet and millwork shop is expanding their design services department, to continue to provide exceptional service and focus to detail, hallmarks of the company for over 45 years. Visit www.falloncustomhomes.com for more details and follow on Instagram @falloncustomhomes.

Eye Care and Laser Surgery of Newton-Wellesley is now offering corneal cross linking, a minimally invasive procedure that uses ultraviolet light and eye drops to strengthen the collagen fibers in the cornea. This in-office procedure is used for patients with keratoconus, a condition in which the cornea grows thin and weak. Please call the office at 617.796.3937 to book a free consultation and visit www.eyecareandlasersurgery.com for more information.

Wellesley resident and licensed mental health counselor Irena Cafasso recently launched a new website. Irena welcomes new patients and accepts most health insurance plans. Her areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, eating disorders/body image, and issues regarding cultural identity and acculturation. Her approach is influenced by acceptance and commitment therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness base techniques. To learn more, please visit www.irenacafassocounseling.com or call 617.913.2181.

Exceptional Health in Wellesley is proud to welcome Dr. Kevin Heaton, an instructor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, to its team of concierge primary care physicians. Dr. Heaton specializes in preventive medicine, cardiology, endocrinology, rare and complex diagnoses, as well as musculoskeletal and sports medicine. Exceptional Health’s personalized approach emphasizes prevention and early detection, with in-house services such as lab work and cardiac testing. Learn more about how Dr. Heaton and the team elevate care at exceptionalhealthmd.com.

Spring is the season for making positive changes in your life. If you’re going through the process of divorce or are recently divorced, become inspired with Wellesley resident Caren Stanley’s “Journey of Divorce.” This course helps people move forward in their lives during and after divorce with dignity and grace and provides tools and positivity, guidance, and support. Participants learn how they can acknowledge a new beginning for themselves and a new sense of normal. To learn more, please email caren@journeyofdivorce.com or call 617.794.9898.

CS Bailey Landscape now offers all-electric maintenance services—after all, caring for the environment is what they do every day. Their new battery-powered equipment is quieter, exhaust-free, and produces zero emissions, ensuring a more pleasant and eco-conscious experience for clients. By eliminating noise pollution and harmful exhaust, CS Bailey creates a cleaner, healthier environment while maintaining high-quality landscaping services. This switch to all-electric maintenance highlights the company’s dedication to sustainability and client satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.csbaileylandscape.com.

Jesamondo Salon & Spa proudly introduces its newest member to the stylist team: Rachel Benway. Rachel brings with her an extraordinary talent for analyzing her clients’ current look and creating something new and refreshing or refining an existing style with an updated twist. She enjoys any opportunity to collaborate with clients to create their wildest inspirations. Ready for a refreshed look for the season ahead? Schedule an appointment with Rachel or any of Jesamondo’s highly skilled professionals by calling 508.907.7171 or booking online at www.Jesamondo.com.

Jesamondo Salon & Spa has partnered with Rejuvenation Station, LLC to add more beauty into your life with injectables. They’re conveniently located in the Jesamondo Spa and managed by industry leaders Tania Klein, owner and CEO; and Bobbi K. Coode, RN, MSN, ANP-C, medical director and cosmetic injector. For great results and one-stop shopping, combine your next Botox® or filler appointment with your upcoming Jesamondo Salon & Spa hair or spa appointment. Call 508.907.7171 to schedule or book online at www.Jesamondo.com.

Wellesley-based Jacob Lilley Architects won two 2024 PRISM Awards from the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston for projects in Waban and Wellesley. Jacob Lilley Architects also earned a 2025 Best of Boston Home Award for Best Transitional Architect. For the past 18 years, Jacob Lilley Architects has been creating unique custom homes that range from traditional to modern.  For more, follow @jacoblilleyarchitects and visit www.jlaarchitects.com.  

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Town & Country Real Estate is thrilled to welcome Yanni Pappas to their team. A lifelong Greater Boston resident, Yanni brings with him a passion for real estate and extensive experience as a small business owner. Known for his strong work ethic and dedication, Yanni is excited to help clients navigate the market with ease. Outside of real estate, he loves sports and spending time outdoors, embodying the vibrant spirit of our Massachusetts community. Welcome, Yanni!

Rutledge Properties is excited to welcome Chip Stella as a Managing Partner! With nearly 20 years of real estate experience, Chip will lead Wellesley’s #1 independent firm. At Rutledge, we believe Boutique is Better, delivering personalized, high-touch service that puts clients first. With Chip’s leadership and vision, we’re more committed than ever to exceptional real estate experiences and lasting relationships. Welcome to Rutledge, Chip!

Wellesley architect Jan Gleysteen recently attended the Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Symposium in Seattle, Washington. Hosted by the American Institute of Architects, the event gathered leading residential architects to explore innovative design trends and sustainable practices. Gleysteen, known for his timeless and elegant home designs, described the symposium as an inspiring opportunity to connect with peers and gain insights to enhance his work for clients in the Wellesley area.

Mark Hutker and the partners at Hutker Architects recently released their third book, New England Coastal: Homes That Tell a Story (The Monacelli Press, 2024). The book showcases the evolution of the firm’s design philosophy and leadership over the years. While firmly grounded in the New England vernacular, Hutker Architects’ projects are distinguished by a refined, contemporary sensibility. For more information, please visit www.hutkerarchitects.com.

a Blade of Grass was a house sponsor for the Concord Museum’s Holiday Tour in December, where designers Heather Lashbrook Jones and Elena Gauthier decorated the museum’s first floor for the holidays and designed the exterior landscape. In addition, a Blade of Grass won a silver award for 2024 Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) for Residential Design. Jim Douthit, Colin Hand, and Kate Notman designed this award-winning landscape for “Seaside Retreat” in Duxbury. For more information, please visit www.abladeofgrass.com.

Felicia Maria Designs recently completed a major renovation project at Jesamondo Salon & Spa. Felicia has worked in both the residential and commercial sides of the design industry and is known for her transitional style achieved by mixing European elements and traditional accents with modern furnishings. The daughter of an architectural engineer, she developed an early love for construction and design and offers a wide range of services to curate a stunning space that will reflect your style and personality. For more information, please visit www.feliciamariedesigns.com.

Christine Norcross & Partners, a leading team within William Raveis Real Estate and Home Services, is celebrating 80 years of collective real estate experience. Christine’s team was established in 2006 and is the oldest and the first real estate team in Wellesley. Composed of five real estate professionals, each with unique backgrounds and talents, the team goes above and beyond to accommodate their clients’ needs and requests. In addition, William Raveis was recently voted the #1 real estate company in the U.S. Visit https://www.homesbynorcross.com and call 781.929.4994.

Pretty Picky Properties is celebrating 23 years as the primary source for Cape Cod’s select vacation rentals. Each Pretty Picky property is chosen for its outstanding location, superb quality of accommodations, or both. The company’s high-touch hospitality is epitomized in its Property Prep Punch List, executed by trained detailers at every property, every turnover day. There are no booking fees and communications are concise and comforting with timely responses to your questions before and after booking. Discover a personal and warmer way to rent. Visit www.prettypicky.com for more information.

One2One BodyScapes Wellesley clients recently shared why they keep returning for their personal training needs. Jeff Hadden says, “I’ve been working with Jimmy using the TPI program for several years, and my golf game has improved dramatically. I have better balance, I am more flexible, and I am stronger, resulting in better swing mechanics and more length in all aspects of my game. And, importantly, I can now play multiple days in a row without becoming sore. I am a big fan.” To learn more, visit www.one2onebodyscapes.com/wellesley.

Congratulations to Lisa Sewall, who will be celebrating eight years as a real estate agent with Rutledge Properties this year. She joined Rutledge in 2017 after many years spent as a pastry chef, restaurant owner and mom to her three children. A longtime resident of Wellesley, Lisa continues to provide her clients with unparalleled service, market insights, a keen eye for detail and the occasional Rutledge cookies. For more information, visit rutledgeproperties.com or e-mail Lisa at Lsewall5@gmail.com.

Catering and Events Manager Megan Hawkes joined Saltbox Catering in 2015, bringing extensive catering expertise to the growing company. Partnering with Chef Ben, she helped expand Saltbox’s catering, sharing farm-to-table cuisine and warm hospitality with clients in their homes. Building strong vendor relationships and working with creative event planners has been a joy, but Meg cherishes getting to know clients, especially wedding couples. Outside of work, she enjoys weekends with her family, gardening, and summers by the beach in Maine or New Jersey.

Dr. Katherine Hein, medical director of Accurate Aesthetics, is celebrating 25 years in practice. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, she was educated at the University of Michigan, Columbia University, and Yale University, and trained at Harvard University. Dr. Hein has performed thousands of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. She and her all-female staff are happy to guide you through the process to help you look and feel your best. To learn more, please visit www.accurateaesthetics.com.

 Pam Kubbins, the owner and founder of her homegrown business Pam’s Pashminas in Wellesley, is excited to celebrate the new year and spring with an array of new colors and scarf designs. Her high-quality, all-natural fiber scarves feature unique images of Pam’s photography and garden on gorgeous artisanally-crafted fabrics. Send an email if you’d like to visit Pam’s Home Boutique or pop-up on her porch. Check the website for a list of upcoming events, including the Vermont Flower Show in March. Please visit www.pamspashminas.com.

The John’s Island Real Estate Company proudly welcomes Nan Vandervelde to the team. With deep roots in Wellesley, where she raised her family and excelled in the luxury real estate market with Sotheby’s, Nan’s experience seamlessly translates to John’s Island’s private Florida club community. Her keen eye for value, passion for clients, strong club ties, and affection for John’s Island will only elevate this exclusive beachside haven as she guides discerning buyers and sellers alike. Connect: nan@johnsislandrealestate.com.

Essex Executive Speech and Function has been helping students and their families for more than 25 years. Owner Holly Steiger works collaboratively with individuals to discover what new routines, strategies, and study habits work best for them. She believes in empowerment through increased self-awareness, self-advocacy, and emotional coping skills. To learn more about how Essex can help your child create a plan for success using systematic strategies and consistent practice, please visit www.essexefs.com.

Chris Benson of Benson Interiors was recently asked to sit on a panel with other interior designers during Boston Design Week and discuss his work through his personal lens. Celebrating over four decades, Chris has long been respected for his ability to design sophisticated homes that not only stand the test of time, but also incorporate intelligent and thoughtful details that make his clients lives better. Chris has been honored with many awards and is well-known and respected in Greater Boston. To learn more, please visit www.bensoninteriors.com.

A.J. Rose Carpets & Flooring proudly supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and makes a donation for every review received. The family-owned flooring company is also proud to have donated $2,500 in support of Darren Braunstein of the National Floorcovering Alliance, who recently ran in the December Memphis St. Jude Race. Visit ajrosecarpets.com to shop new flooring from home or visit one of their stores in Natick, Needham, Burlington, or Lynnfield.

Your skin needs extra care after the long winter, and you’ll find the products you need with Longevity skin care from Elizabeth Renee.  You may want to focus on reconditioning your dry, dehydrated skin.  And don’t forget to apply sunscreen daily all year long.  Elizabeth Renee believes that beautiful skin will endure throughout one’s lifetime when utilizing the best that science and nature have to offer.  For more information on how to keep your skin healthy and looking youthful, email beautifulskin@elizabethrenee.com or call 781.235.7546.

Peter Kelley of Wellesley received the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan’s highest honor, at a conferment ceremony in Washington, DC on September 20, 2024. Shigeo Yamada, Ambassador of Japan to the U.S., presented Kelley with this imperial decoration for his distinguished service to the U.S.-Japan relationship during his career in business, academia and most recently as the president of the National Association of Japan-America Societies from 2009 to 2023. Following the ceremony, a reception attended by guests from across the U.S. was held at the Ambassador’s residence.

I AM FIERCE (Natick and Needham) is a six-week health and fitness program for girls in grades 3–8, designed to build confidence, self-esteem, and physical strength. Through a unique blend of physical and mental coaching, girls learn to embrace their strengths, improve fitness, and manage stress. The program fosters teamwork and friendships, empowering participants to thrive. Dates: Grades 6–8: 1/7–2/13, 3/11–4/17; Grades 3–5: 2/26–4/2. Join FIERCE to inspire your girl! Visit https://www.fiercebychoice.com/iaffall24 for more.

Meet Ellie Cornish Chu, a wholehearted realtor who works with MGS Group Real Estate in Wellesley, Cambridge, and Boston. She joined MGS Group after over 20 years in transactional law and has thrived in her new profession. A proud Wellesley College alum, Ellie lives in Boston and would love to help you find your perfect home there! Email Ellie at ellie@mgsgrouprealestate.com or call 617.416.1318.