On ‘At Home With,’ we virtually visit our members and catch up on their current normal. From recommended reading and podcasts to creative recipes and wellness routines, get to know the network - and maybe even come away with a little activity inspo.
Meet Lesley Vecsler, the founder of an eponymous communications agency that counts Marie-Chantal Children, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Polkadot England and Galvan as clients. Having spent the last few months out East, Lesley welcomed the change of pace from buzzing city life to unhurried days, spending time experimenting in the kitchen and having impromptu family dance parties. She shares how her clients have been keeping her going, including a recent in-person event that gave us a glimmer of hope ourselves.
What’s your usual location, and where are you currently staying?
We are based in Manhattan but have been in Watermill since mid-March. Although it is a difficult time for many, we’ve been fortunate in that we’ve all been healthy and this time has provided a unique opportunity to have time with my family. The fresh air, the beach and our yard have been refreshing for the kids and for our sanity.
Did you discover any new pastimes or creative outlets during lockdown that you’ll stick with?
My mother is an amazing cook and I learned from her growing up. However, with life’s rush between the kids’ schools and activities, running a business and both work and social events, I rarely had time to cook. It’s been such a treat to slow down, experiment in the kitchen and eat dinner as a family.
That and family dance parties that we’ll always remember!
Do you have any favorite podcasts, books, newsletters?
Air Mail Weekly always has the best writers. It takes me back to my early days in New York when I worked at Vanity Fair.
My friend Erin Geiger Smith has written a book, Thank You For Voting, that is a must-read report on voting in America, particularly now.
I've also spent a lot of time stalking Jennifer Fisher Kitchen on Instagram and trying her recipes. Her salts are life changing!
What do you miss most from pre-Covid life, and what’s keeping you going right now?
I miss the energy of the city, dinners out with friends, Broadway shows, concerts and all the things that make New York exciting. I also miss my team, the camaraderie and all the amazing events we have worked on. We had our first socially-distanced client event last week. Events may not be back to what they were, but we are being creative in the meantime with virtual events and small gatherings.
My clients keep me going. I’m truly inspired by how they’ve all persevered and pivoted in creative ways during this challenging time. Not only that, but each brand has incorporated charitable aspects into their business and given back to the communities most in need.
Any summer plans?
It feels like summer has flown by! Just trying to separate work time and family time and soak up as many summer days as we can.
As travel starts opening up, where will you be vacationing first?
We have plans to go to Blackberry Mountain for a friend’s birthday. It's been on my list for a long time.
