Annual Winnipesaukee Wine Festival Returns to Church Landing for 6th Year

The Lakes Region is gearing up for one of the biggest parties of the season, with two fun nights of fabulous food, wine, and music on the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee that will showcase wines from around the world while raising funds for two local non-profit organizations.

The Sixth Annual Winnipesaukee Wine Festival will take place on Thursday, June 23^rd from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. in the Winnipesaukee Ballroom at Church Landing, where more than 100 domestic and international wines provided by over 20 vintners will be ready for sampling along with delicious hors d’oeuvres and appetizers.  These wonderful dishes will be prepared by several local eateries, including Lakehouse Grille, The Corner House Inn, The Coe House, Owen’s Farm Stand, Lago, and Camp.

The evening will also feature spirits and beer from local distilleries and breweries.  Peak Organic Brewing Company will be in the house, as well as Cisco Brewery of Nantucket, highlighting their Whale’s Tale Ale and Triple 8 martinis.  The freshly-mixed martinis will be served down an ice sculpture luge created by Jeff Day of Not So Plain Jane’s in Rumney and The Route 104 Diner in New Hampton.

Music for the event, which is hosted by The Common Man Family of Restaurants and The Martignetti Companies of New Hampshire, will be provided by the talented local jazz duo of Don Williams and David Tonkin, who play frequently throughout New Hampshire in various jazz ensembles and bands, and are also faculty members of the Concord Community Music School.

The Winnipesaukee Wine Fest 2010

Wine festival tickets are $50 per person, and all proceeds will benefit CHMM Community Caregivers and White Mountain Foster & Rescue.  Guests will enjoy the traditional raffle and live auction, and this year there are some great prizes up for grabs, including a seaside getaway in Nantucket, an overnight stay at Church Landing, and a getaway to an Adirondack-style cabin in Plymouth.  “It’s right next to our Italian Farmhouse,” says Diane Downing of the Common Man Family, who is organizing the festival.  “I did the décor on it…it is completely furnished in Adirondack style with a hot tub on the deck!”

The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls are helping out too, by extending a special rate just for the occasion.  With proof of your ticket purchase for the festival, a room at the Inn at Mill Falls is discounted from $169 to just $99.  You can wine and dine all night long and not worry about driving home!

The night before, on Wednesday, June 22^nd, a pre-Wine Festival Beach Party will be held at the Common Man’s Town Docks outdoor tiki bar, with some featured wines, tapas-style dishes, and live music performed by recording artist Robbie LaBlanc accompanied by Sal Rametta, Tom Teegan, and Mark Descoteaux.  Robbie has played with many Rock & Roll bands, including Toto and The Rascals, and now plays alongside his brother in a couple of local groups, as well as this annual gathering of talent.  “They are amazing,” says Diane, “They just pull together for this event, but all are amazing musicians in their own right.”  Admission to this event is free and a portion of the proceeds will also benefit the two organizations.

Join the fun while helping a good cause at the Sixth Annual Winnipesaukee Wine Festival!  For more information, visit thecman.com, or call 603-968-9330 to order tickets.  Space is limited and advanced tickets and reservations are strongly suggested.  For the special room rate at the Inns, please call 800-622-6455 and mention the Winnipesaukee Wine Festival.  Hope to see you there!

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Image credit: dicktay2000 at Flickr.com

Get Your Laughs at Comedy Night at Church Landing

It’s the feel-good event of the year—Kidworks Learning Center is teaming up with The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls and Meredith Village Savings Bank to bring the Meredith community a night of comedy and merriment to benefit the children of Kidworks.

On Friday, April 22^nd, two nationally renowned comedians will perform at Church Landing as part of the Comedy Night fundraising event.  Kidworks has previously hosted several fundraisers on a smaller scale, such as bake sales, book sales, and Yankee Candle drives, but this is the first major event for the Center.  The evening begins with a cash bar at 7pm, followed by an 8pm comedy show featuring Tom Hayes and Rob Steen.

Tom Hayes is a quick and witty performer who has performed stand-up comedy at the Comedy Connection and Nick’s Comedy Stop in Boston, Catch a Rising Star in New York, Second City in Chicago, and the Bermuda Comedy Club.  He is a winner of Showtime TV’s “Funniest Person in Massachusetts” award.

Rob Steen got his start as a street performer in Boston at the age of 12, honing his skills as a juggler and improv performer.  Since then he has been featured on several TV shows, including The Late Show with Dave Letterman, where he is a frequent guest.  Rob’s act has been compared to Robin Williams’ due to his fast-paced delivery and quick wit, and his high-energy show brings audiences together with a unique style of house participation.

Tickets to the show are $20 per person and include a 2-for-1 dinner entrée coupon, which can be redeemed at Lakehouse Grille, CAMP, Lago, Mame’s, or Giuseppe’s on the evening of the show. The tickets can be purchased at Innisfree Bookshop and Meredith Mobil Station, or by emailing michelle@millfalls.com.  Ticket sales are currently going strong, but there is still time to get yours!  If they haven’t sold out by Friday, tickets will be available at the door the night of the event.  The Inns are also offering special guest-room rates upon request for that night.

“We are confident it will be fun night out, everybody loves to laugh,” says Michelle Brown, a member of Kidworks’ Board of Directors.  “We are also grateful to the local restaurants for providing the added value to our tickets with the addition of a buy one entree get one free.”

When asked how the organization came up with the idea to do a comedy show, Michelle replied, “Several local organizations host their major fundraisers in March and April, and the tickets range from $45 – $50 per person.  We needed ours to be different and reasonably priced.  A comedy event provided a great platform for what we were looking for.  Rob Steen at North Shore Comedy has been great to work with in helping us get off the ground.”

“We were thrilled to have the opportunity to work with The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls for this fundraising opportunity,” added Jennifer Weeks, Executive Director of Kidworks. “We thought a comedy show would be a great night out for the community and families.  The children will be helping make the centerpieces for the event as part of their community project.”

Proceeds from the show will go towards improving the Kidworks Learning Center facility and future programs.   According to their website, the mission of the Kidworks Learning Center is to provide high-quality early childhood education and childcare programs at an affordable cost to families.  For more information, call Kidworks at (603) 279-6633.

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Tales from Random Acts of Kindness Week at Mill Falls

When The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Week last February 13 – 18, countless people benefitted from the good deeds that were given and received.  As employees of The Inns arbitrarily gave away fun gifts to guests and customers, the goodwill quickly spread throughout the community and beyond.

At Meredith Gas Station, the staff randomly gave away cups of coffee throughout each day, and one person per day was selected to receive a coupon for a free large pizza from the store.  Pat Wade, manager of Meredith Station, said people were thrilled to receive either one, but one gentleman who was presented with a free cup of coffee immediately turned around and donated to a charity whose collection box was on the counter:  the Shamrock Program of the MDA.

When a gal who received a coupon for a free pizza came back to order her pie, she brought with her a bouquet of flowers for the crew.  “It seemed people wanted to do nice when nice was done to them,” said Pat.  “It seemed very much appreciated.  It is nice, people paying it forward and doing different things of that nature.”

This was the third year that the Mill Falls family observed Random Acts of Kindness Week, and they definitely plan to continue the tradition next year.  In the meantime, though, the friendly folks at the Inns encourage everyone to perform acts of kindness whenever possible—everyday offers a new opportunity to extend some tenderness.

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Winner of Complimentary Overnight Stay Shares Her Experience

Jennifer and Joe at Mill Falls

When The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls posted a giveaway on Facebook for an overnight stay in honor of Random Acts of Kindness Week, Jennifer Yahoodik from Boston ended up the lucky winner.  The only condition was that she had to pay it forward and invite some friends along to enjoy a room at the Inns as well.  So Jennifer and her fiancé, Joe, brought their good friends and “super-fun-couple,” David and Katie, to Meredith for a spontaneous Friday night getaway.

Jennifer has been a fan of the Inns for about ten years, since her mother brought her here for a weekend one fall.  “She had booked a stay at Mill Falls for Columbus Day weekend for her and my father.” said Jennifer.  “When work called my father away, she took me instead of having to cancel her reservation.  Columbus Day weekend is now a ten-year-strong mother-daughter weekend, and in 2010 my sister joined the trip as well.”

“Each time we return, we mix it up and stay at either Bay Point, Mill Falls, or the newest hotel, Church Landing.” Jennifer continued. “Every time I am up in Meredith staying at the Inns, my only two wishes are to never have to leave, and wishing I could share the experience with everyone I know and love.” Read the rest of this entry »

Meredith Eatery a True Musical Venue

David Francey to play at the Grotto March 16

Since 1989, Giuseppe’s Pizzeria & Ristoranté in Meredith, NH has been serving up great live music with its award-winning Italian cuisine and festive charm.  The restaurant features well-known local and regional musicians seven nights a week, and has become one of most popular and loved destinations in the Lakes Region.   With the addition of its new room, “The Grotto,” Giuseppe’s can now host even more special events, and has lined up some national touring acts for its exciting new Dinner Concert Series.

Julie Gnerre-Bourgeois has owned and operated Giuseppe’s in the Mill Falls Marketplace for 21 years.  She takes pride in having an establishment that features live nightly musical entertainment, and is excited about the restaurant’s expansion in May, which will provide the space for concerts that they haven’t had until now.  “We recently created “The Grotto” at Giuseppe’s, a beautiful room in the original foundation of the old Linen Mill at Mill Falls,” says Julie.  “This room has character with old stone, brick, wood, wrought iron and canvas.”

The Grotto is available for private parties and wine dinners, and is regularly hosting Karaoke nights, DJ nights, and Live Band nights.  The new room provides an intimate concert setting, and will be the home to the new Dinner Concert Series beginning in March.  The series will feature national touring artists such as David Francey, Willy Porter, and Jeffrey Foucault.  Julie is also planning a local artist concert series for the future.  Food and beverages from the menu and full bar will be served during all shows.

“I am offering each artist 100% of the ticket sales and would be so pleased if we could fill the room for them,” says Julie.  “These touring artists work so hard, and are so very talented.  My interest is in sharing their music with the folks from around The Lakes, Mountains, and Seacoast Regions of New Hampshire.”

For more information on the concert series, as well as Giuseppe’s annual Music Memorial fundraiser, please visit their website or call the restaurant at 603-279-3313.

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Photo courtesy of Giuseppe’s Pizzaria & Ristorante

Romance and Renewal at The Inns

In February, thoughts turn to romance and reconnecting with our special someone, and many couples celebrate Valentine’s Day with flowers, chocolate, and a candlelit dinner.  If you are looking for a different way to share some time together this year, take your loved one to Meredith, a charming village with one of the most romantic hotels in the country, and indulge in a relaxing couples massage.

Cascade Spa at Church Landing is offering a special in their Couples Suite.  The Melt Me Massage uses Zents, a therapeutic natural massage oil with aphrodisiac properties. Couples can choose from sensual and warm “Sun” with amber and vanilla, or euphoric and stimulating “Ore” with jasmine.  Another special treat is the Chocolate Truffle Body Treatment.  Let your senses experience this blend of aromatic, organic essential oils and fresh nutrients.  It’s a “chocolate delight” without the calories!  Both services include a sweet take away treat.

Church Landing at Mill Falls recently received the Travelers’ Choice® Award by TripAdvisor® as one of the Top 10 Hotels for Romance in the United States. 
“Church Landing at Mill Falls has a long trail of loyal followers,” said Gail Batstone, General Manager of the Inns and Spa at Mill Falls, “and we are proud and honored to be recognized by them as one of the most romantic hotels in the country.”

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Saturday Night Wagon Rides Still Going Strong

This winter, The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls are continuing a favorite activity—the Saturday Night Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides!  This good old-fashioned fun has become a tradition in Meredith Village, where folks can even warm up by a campfire on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.

On selected Saturdays through February, the horse-drawn wagon circles the village and makes several stops at all four of the Mill Falls Inns between the hours of 5:30 and 8:00pm.  Guests who are staying at the Inns can jump on for a charming ride to and from dinner, or just for fun!  Make one of your stops at Bay Point, where you’ll find a cozy campfire, complete with marshmallows for toasting, as long as the weather is cooperative!

Celebrate the spirit of Saint Valentine and take someone you love to Meredith this February.  What could be more romantic than snuggling up against the cold with the rhythmic sounds of horses’ hooves clapping on the streets?  Basking in the magic of a crackling campfire could only top it off!

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

“Spa Gal” Visits Cascade Spa

What happens when a well-traveled spa lover vacations on Lake Winnipesaukee?  If it’s one of the “Spa Gals,” she takes a short trip to Meredith, indulges at Cascade Spa, and writes a glowing review online!

Kara Williams is a professional travel writer who, along with Beth Blair and Jennifer Miner, created the fun website called “Spa Gals.”   Kara rarely misses an opportunity to spa, and when she spends summer vacations at her mom’s house on this famous New Hampshire lake, she finds time to visit The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls, where she tries out some of the many services and treatments Cascade Spa has to offer.

Over the years, Kara has enjoyed many of the different types of massages and pedicures here, and on her last visit, she treated herself to an “Express Foot Ritual,” which was an abbreviated 25-minute pedicure.  Kara then wrote about the beautiful features of Cascade Spa and how relaxing the whole experience is.  She also noted how friendly and experienced the staff is, and said, “It’s a cozy, comfortable spot to enjoy an hour (or two or three) or pampering.”

Wouldn’t a treatment at Cascade Spa make the perfect gift, or break for yourself, this holiday season?

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Image credit: Nick J Webb at Flickr.com

Don’t Miss the Mill Falls Marketplace Holiday Open House!

It’s that time of year again—the Mill Falls Marketplace is having their annual holiday open house!  You won’t want to miss this festive event, which has become a favorite tradition in Meredith Village.

On Sunday, December 5^th from 1 – 4pm, the Marketplace will come to life with strolling carolers, horse-drawn wagon rides, and light refreshments.  You are sure to find unique gifts for all the special people on your list, as the wonderful merchants of the Marketplace will be offering exclusive specials.  One favorite boutique, Adornments, has a variety of handmade and one-of-a-kind scarves, hats, pendants, earrings, and pins, all at special holiday prices.  They are even giving away $20 gift certificates with the purchase of a $100 gift certificate!  And this is just one example of all the great deals and warm cheer you’ll find among the twelve shops of the Marketplace.

Make a day of it with a relaxing treatment from Cascade Spa and lunch at one of the cozy restaurants by Lake Winnipesaukee.  Holiday shopping has never been so much fun!  Hope to see you there…

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Meredith Blacksmith Creates Beauty Throughout the Lakes Region and Beyond

Step into the Mill Falls Marketplace or Church Landing at The Inns and Spa at Mill Falls, and the first thing you’re likely to notice is the beautiful metalwork that enhances the charm of the historic structures.  These stunning pieces were crafted by local blacksmith David Little of Winnepesaukee Forge, who has been honing his craft in the Lakes Region for almost three decades.

“I guess I refer to myself as an artist-blacksmith,” says David.  “I do all sorts of different types of work, from sculpture, furniture, railings, and fireplace screens, to beds and gates and custom light fixtures.  There’s a bunch of my work at the Inns.  The first stuff that we did was for the Mill Falls Marketplace.  I did all the railings in the center that take you up and down the different floors in the old mill building, and some little in-fill panels, and that was some pretty early work.  That was in the early 80’s.”

More recently, David crafted some artisan pieces at Church Landing.  “I did some handmade fireplace screens in a rustic pine motif in the lobby and for the big fireplace in the Flagship Ballroom,” he says.  “I made a rustic railing that’s on the front steps, the first thing you see and touch when you go into the Inn at Church Landing.” Read the rest of this entry »