Fresh off her tremendous success at The Hedges Inn in East Hampton, we caught up with The Colony’s Sarah Wetenhall to reflect on all things Palm Beach.
What’s the first thing you do when you arrive in town?
I beeline for the beach and go for a long walk along the water. There is no better way to clear my head and make the transition to the sunshine.
What’s the most fabulous party you’ve ever attended in Palm Beach?
This town is full of generous people who love to turn out for a great cause. The Preservation Foundation Dinner Dance always nails the décor and feels very authentically Palm Beach. AMFAR is without question the most star-studded. The Norton Museum of Art’s Gala is the perfect combination of the two – very chic and utterly unforgettable.
Who do you think has the best taste in town?
Mimi McMakin has the best style and is beautiful inside and out. Mimi was raised in Palm Beach and established Kemble Interiors in the 1980s. She understands the Palm Beach aesthetic better than anyone and knows how to keep it current. She is not only stylish, sophisticated, and classic; she’s also whimsical, fun, and never takes herself too seriously. Brilliant, intelligent, and hilariously sharp, she brings wit and warmth to every room. Beyond her style, Mimi is simply one of my favorite people in town.
What’s your favorite hidden gem in PB?
The koi pond nestled in the Cluett Memorial Gardens behind Bethesda-by-the-Sea. It is serene, unexpected, and feels like a secret garden right in the middle of Palm Beach.
What song gets you dancing every time?
Anything country brings a huge smile to my face – a little holdover from my Vanderbilt days in Nashville. My current playlist includes songs by Morgan Wallen, Megan Moroney and (always!) Taylor Swift.
What’s one PB tradition you’ll never skip?
I really treasure Christmas in Palm Beach and I never miss it. On Christmas Eve, our family heads to Midnight Mass at St. Edward’s. When we arrive back home, we open one present for each of my children before I tuck them in (and get to work on setting up Christmas morning). Christmas Day always starts with homemade cinnamon rolls and a family walk or bike ride along the Lake Trail.
If you could host anyone, living or dead, for cocktails, who would it be?
Addison Mizner was a renowned architect who designed some of the most beloved buildings in Palm Beach including The Everglades Club. However, while I am sure I would love to talk about design and architecture with Addison, I am even more obsessed with his pet monkey named Johnnie Brown. Addison used to carry him around on his shoulder everywhere and Johnnie became almost like the town mascot. Addison even put him on the ballot for mayor; Johnnie only lost by four votes. Today, Johnnie is our mascot at The Colony, and I’d love for him to see his legacy, weigh in on our branding that he’s such a big part of, and of course, share a little more monkey business with us.
If Palm Beach were a cocktail, what would be in it?
Bubbly, fizzy, and pink – served in a fabulous glass, of course.
Poolside or oceanfront?
Poolside without a doubt. I have always loved the Slim Aarons take on poolside chic with an effortless pareo, a stylish chaise and umbrella, a great read, a refreshing drink and a lively group. It all makes for a perfect afternoon.