K. Kerkorian Weddings & Events
For more than a decade, we’ve watched Kristyn Kerkorian climb the ladder of local event planning, following along as she went from helming catering sales at the Colonnade Hotel to throwing parties for the Red Sox to launching her own wedding-planning firm in 2017. But it’s not just the BU alum’s prestigious pedigree — or the fact that she successfully executed eight COVID-era celebrations — that stands out to us. We’re equally taken by her calming, down-to-earth demeanor (a godsend for anxious brides and grooms) and undeniable gift for design, evident in each meticulous tablescape, escort-card display, and floral arrangement she helps envision. kkerkorianevents.com.
Lynda Connolly
Without her, Secretary of Space Michael J. Connolly would be an even bigger joke than he is. "I've heard of separate beds," said one panelist, "but separate planets?"
James Kilts, CEO of Gillette, which has announced plans to lay off 3,300 workers.
Runner-up: Gary DiCamillo, CEO of Polaroid, which is laying off 2,000.
Bill Weld
Redhead is no Reagan republican, but his work habits are reminiscent of the Gipper. Regular squash games, Grateful Dead concerts, and a generally drowsy appearance suggest that Bill might be happier at home playing Nintendo. However, rumor that a 30-hour workweek will be a major plank of his campaign is apparently unfounded.
The Red Lion Inn
The Red Lion's lure as a hangout is potent, and has been since 1704. The rustic, cozy bar inside has an original old beam ceiling, huge brick fireplace, wide plank floors, and outdoor patio seating. And if you've had one too many, there are 15 gorgeous suites upstairs, all with fireplaces and Jacuzzis. 71 South Main St., Cohasset, MA redlioninn.com.
The Old Inn on the Green
Foodies have followed chef Peter Platt from his post at Wheatleigh to this rustic spot, where the focus is on food, not formality. Superior American fare—braised lamb shank with spring vegetables and pan-roasted duck with wild rice—is served in the intimate dining rooms of this inn, which glows with candlelight. 134 Hartsville New Marlborough Rd. (Rte. 57), New Marlborough, MA oldinn.com.
Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics
Have to plan ahead, though: it's open to the public only on the third Thursday of each month, at 8 p.m. 60 Garden St., Cambridge, MA .
The American Women's Shop
It always has the classics—lots of Elizabeth by Liz Claiborne. This is the place for the new suit or the black silk pants. Lord & Taylor, 760 Boylston Street, Boston, MA .
Hollywood Espresso
Sultry movies and moody java. Is there a better combination on the planet? At this "European Film Cafe," you can watch a recent release on one of three TV screens while sipping a white mocha latte or cafe au lait and munching on a croissant or a slice or carrot cake. 1740 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, WA .
Stow Acres
Stow Acres, the public course in Stow. Fair, challenging and open to anyone. But arrive early or plan for a long wait.
Saks Fifth Avenue
There isn't a woman on the planet who doesn't feel sexy and chic in the right little black dress. On a recent visit, choices included a flippy frock from Nicole Miller, a gorgeous beaded creation from Carmen Marc Valvo, and a deceptively demure (until you see the back) charmer from Shelli Segal. Prudential Center, Boston, MA .
Royal Jewelers
Little wonder jewelry collectors from all over the planet have this 60-year-old business on speed dial: Its inventory of David Yurman bests what's found even at the designer's own boutiques; the cases of Marco Bicego and Roberto Coin are unrivaled; the diamond selection is swoonworthy. And the watch stock? It's a dream team of heavyweights, from Vacheron to Brequet. 58 Main St., Andover, MA 1810, royaljewelers.com.
Larry Fidalgo, Fidalgo Floors
The scene of the crime is that newly purchased, splendid Victorian house whose floors are battered by years of abuse and besmirched with coats of deck paint. Enter Larry Fidalgo and company—and 24 hours later, stunning pine planks gleam from beneath a coat of crystal-clear polyurethane. Not only does Fidalgo refinish soft- and hardwood floors, but he installs them, as well. Among his clients are the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Restoration Society of Charlestown. Which isn't a bad way to finish. Somerville, MA