April Vacation Fun!

April vacation is finally here!

I reached out to many of you to find out what you love doing with your kids, and you all delivered! So, grab your favorite beverage, settle into a cozy spot, and explore this collection of ideas from fellow parents and caregivers just like you!

photo by Tracey Westgate Photography

Date specific:

Strawberry Hill, Ipwsich. Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

Parks/Nature: The North Shore is just bursting with beauty and has such a variety of ways to explore it. Here are a few ideas!

photo by Tracey Westgate Photography

Playgrounds: So many great playgrounds, but here on the ones you mentioned!

  • Dane Street Playground, Beverly.

  • Patton Park, Hamilton. Also has Sunday Night concerts in the summer.

  • Sony Myers Playground, Revere. Big and fully enclosed.

  • Another great resource for playground news: Park Hoppah Facebook Group - caregivers report on various playgrounds and parks. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1842131829442563

Libraries:

  • Check out your local library fun vacation activities! 

Ice Cream Sandos - A collaboration between Treat Bakery and Down River Ice Cream. Available at the Crane Beach Snack Shack. Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

Ice cream came in STRONG with you all… and I love it! Here are your favorite shops:

Mini Golf:

Wenham Museum photo by Tracey Westgate Photography

Museums:

Indoor Play Places:

Other cool indoor spots:

  • Jolie Tea, Salem and Beverly. Offering various teas, treats and high tea times. https://www.istheteainyou.com/

  • Bit Bar, Salem. Restaurant/bar with retro 80s video games. https://bit.bar/

  • Clay Dreaming, Beverly. Paint your own pottery, classes, events and more. https://claydreaming.com/

  • Lego Land, Somerville - https://www.legodiscoverycenter.com/boston/

  • Sky Zone, Danvers. Indoor trampoline park - https://www.skyzone.com/

  • Guinea Pig Sanctuary, Salisbury - https://www.guineapigsanctuary.org/

  • Puttshack, Boston. Upscale indoor mini golf - https://www.puttshack.com/locations/boston

  • Metro Rock Climbing . Indoor rock climbing - https://nbpt.metrorock.com/

family photo - parents and two boys

photo by Tracey Westgate Photography

Other Goodies:

  • Wolf Hollow, Ipswich. A wolf sanctuary that offers public tours and education. https://www.wolfhollowipswich.org/

  • 2 Donkeys Toy Store, Hamilton. https://www.facebook.com/people/2donkeystoyshop/100063491774803/

  • Winfreys’ Fudge and Chocolates, Multiple locations, flashship shop in Rowley: https://www.winfreys.com/

  • Curly Girl Candy Shop, Salem: https://curlygirlcandy.com/

  • Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie, Salem and North Andover: https://www.oldepeppercandy.com/

  • Putnam Pantry, Danvers: https://www.putnampantry.com/

Other places to find what you need:

As April vacation is here, there's a wealth of exciting activities awaiting you and your children. Whether you're exploring the outdoors, getting creative with arts and crafts, enjoying a staycation at home, or simply relaxing together, the aim is to enjoy this break in whatever way feels right for your family. With a bit of planning and a lot of enthusiasm, you can create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Here's to a fantastic April vacation filled with fun, laughter, and cherished moments with your family!

Know of something great that did’t make my list?

Tracey Westgate Photography

About the Author

Tracey Westgate is a family photographer on the North Shore of Boston. Serving families of the North Shore:  Amesbury, Beverly, Danvers, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Lynn, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Marblehead, Nahant, Newbury, Newburyport, Peabody, Revere, Rockport, Rowley, Salem, Salisbury, Saugus, and Swampscott, Wenham and beyond. Tracey loves telling your authentic story, just as you are.

Photo credit: Courtney Oulette Photography

Buy the raincoat

For most of my life, I did not own a raincoat. I often told myself it wasn’t worth spending the money on one. For the longest time, I kept telling myself that I'd buy a raincoat once I lost weight. It felt like my current size was just a temporary stop on the way to a smaller, more "acceptable" me. I didn't want to invest in something that might not fit me in the future.

But then, it hit me. Why was I waiting to live my life fully? Why was I postponing my comfort and happiness for a future that was uncertain? That's when I realized that buying the raincoat wasn't just about staying dry—it was about accepting myself and my body, no matter what size I was.

Read more

Shop Small Holiday Shopping Guide

'Tis the season to celebrate the joy of giving and the warmth of community! As you embark on your holiday shopping adventure, I'm delighted to be your guide through a curated selection of local gems. This Shop Local/Shop Small guide is your ticket to discovering unique treasures that not only make thoughtful gifts but also support the heartbeat of our community—our local businesses. Let's navigate this festive season together, finding the perfect presents that not only bring joy to your loved ones but also contribute to the vitality of our neighborhood. Happy gifting!

Kid Spaces:

  • Children’s Piazza, Peabody - The perfect combination of coffee and playtime. Sip on a freshly brewed cup of coffee while your children play in an indoor playground filled with plenty of play options. Membership passes, gift cards, and private party hosting space are available!

  • North Shore Children’s Museum, Peabody - Right in downtown Peabody, the North Shore Children’s Museum features 15 hands-on exhibits for children to explore including Farm to Table, Sensory Play, Gross Motor Skills, and more.

  • Savy Little Playhouse, Hamilton - Located in downtown Hamilton this boutique indoor playground is a perfect place for little ones to play their hearts out. 

  • Wenham Museum - Wonderful museum filled with local history, a variety of memberships are available. The Wenham Museum features an adorable gift shop with lots of games, puzzles, toys, and books!

Books, Toys, Games, & More:

  • 2 Donkeys Toy Shop, Hamilton - A wide selection of toys and gifts for the little ones in your life.

  • The Castle, Beverly - Eat, drink, and socialize at this cute game-centered coffee shop. The public is welcome to play games and enjoy high-quality food and drink. Along with a gift shop this cafe also hosts many family-friendly events!

  • Copper Dog Books, Beverly - This Local book store provides a wide variety of books, book-related products, gifts, and cards. Owners are local to Beverly, passionate about books, and committed to providing for the greater community.

  • Paper Asylum, Beverly - Wonderful local comic book and pop culture store located in downtown Beverly. Choose from a variety of comic books, graphic novels, manga, and more. To shop online, visit their store link here.

  • Sarah Gaston Books - Relatable, fun, simple, everyday stories that reveal the love of God to kids. Sarah believes that Christian Children's books don't have to be poetic or cheesy. She is passionate about providing children with simple, relatable books that teach about God and show His love.

Tasty Treats:

Self-Care & Body Products:

  • Spirit Tree Wellness, Hamilton - Featuring the North Shore's only Himalayan salt cave, this wellness center offers many services and events. A variety of packages are offered including access to their salt cave, foot baths, and infrared sauna.

  • Aviva Wellness and Aesthetics, Hamilton - Beautiful brand new medspa right in the heart of downtown Hamilton. It is owned by Jillian Kavanagh, NP who offers injectable aesthetic treatments, microchanneling, and chemical peels in addition to specializing in trigger point therapy. The vibe is always upbeat and fun! Gift cards are available.

  • Loft Cottage Candles - High-quality candles and body products. This combo is perfect for a relaxing evening of self-care.

  • Farm and Sea Candles, Amesbury - Candles, body products, and more check out their handmade products developed to create a cozy home atmosphere.

  • The Enchanted Magnolia, Malden - Fun and crafty hair and fashion accessories for all! Shop headwraps, headbands, scrunchies, and more. 

  • Bajan handcrafted organics - Handmade, local, and responsibly sourced CBD body products.

Furry Friends:

  • Charlies Barkery, Arlington - Healthy, homemade, and high-quality treats for your furry friends! Check out their website for special puppy events!

  • The Natural Dog, Newburyport, Hamilton, Middleton, and Danvers - This local business has multiple locations across the Northshore and is committed to helping pet owners provide their furry friends with natural, holistic, and healthy food and supplements.

  • Gunnel Pups - Classic long-lasting dog collars designed to withstand harsh water conditions and more.

Clothes:

Art:

  • Lily Keller - A talented painter and photographer, Lily paints vibrant seascapes, beaches, and special places. She is an equally talented photographer! Custom work is available.

  • Green Barn Studio - Hillary Holmes is a talented painter, focusing on florals, landscapes, and abstracts. Custom work is available.

  • Souza Ceramics - Handmade pottery by Mariel Souza. Beautiful and functional pieces.

  • Knotty Tottys Designs - Everlasting Wood Flowers, perfect for any occasion. 

  • Liva Bella Designs - Custom gifts and decor for all occasions! Shop a variety of fun holiday decorations, crafts, ornaments, and more

  • Jennifer Faye Columbo - A variety of journal and card decks are available. These items make great gifts for your loved ones during this holiday season. 

  • Joy Street Life and Home, Concord, MA - Distinctly curated products from designers and independent artists. A wide variety of gift options for all ages. 

  • By Sonia B Leno - Local artist working with resin to create functional decor. Her work includes wall decor, charcuteries, serving boards, coasters, jewelry dishes, and much more.

  • Grady Letters, Epping NH - Work one-on-one with owner Kristen to create personalized designs for you and your loved ones. Find everything lettering related from event signage to custom engraving and much more! 

  • Yellow Leaf Design, Boston - Custom house and family recipe illustrations. Turn your family recipe into a beautiful functional piece of art!

  • True Colors Glass Works, Windham - Unique glass art, perfect for small gifts or stocking stuffers.

  • The Discerning Kaleidoscope- This online shop is beautifully curated with artwork from local artisans. From prints to pottery and jewelry to hand blown glass, hundreds of choices, many one-of-a-kind! 

  • Ashley Devin Designs - Made-to-order timeless calligraphy pieces. Custom signs, stationary, and logo design are available for all events and occasions. 

  • Cayena Handmade - Hand-made one of a kind ceramic pieces crafted with love and care!

  • The Striped Cat Metal Works - Nature-themed metal jewelry, perfect for the outdoorsy people in your life. 

  • Filaki - A custom jeweler with beautiful handcrafted pieces.

Other fabulous gift ideas:

  • Clutch Towels, Wenham - Unique and high-quality Microfiber towels. Lots of patterns and sizes to choose from.

  • Timeless Interiors and Gifts, Hamilton - Gifts, accessories, furniture, and decor! Beautiful things for the home.

  • A Monogram Shop, Hamilton - Want something personalized? A Monogram Shop is the place to go! Bags, towels, totes and more, or talk to Angela about your ideas!

  • The General Store, Hamilton - Beautiful selection of local gifts and treats.

  • Abby Velo, local but mobile - This family-owned mobile bike service is perfect for the bikers in your life. They provide onsite service for bikes and skis as well as bike fittings.

  • Cape Ann Sea Salt Co., Rockport - All natural sea salt harvested by hand from just off our local shores.

  • Brissonte, North Reading - Explore hand picked unique products. From home decor to one of a kind items these gifts will bring beauty, creativity, and flair into your home.

  • Interiors Home Decor, Sudbury - Local women-owned business and small gift shop focusing on handmade artisan items.

  • Bravo Baskets, Boston - Custom gift baskets for any price range to be shipped or delivered anywhere in the US.

  • Katie Sadowski Travel - The gift of travel can be a wonderful present this holiday season. For personalized and unforgettable family vacation experiences, reach out to Katie Sadowski - Magic Vacations, a local travel advisor. She can help you create memorable and tailor-made vacations that cater to your personal preferences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway, theme park fun, a cruise, or an adventurous trip, Katie provides expert guidance and ensures a seamless travel experience for you and your loved ones. Katie.sadowski@magicvacations.net

  • Tracey Westgate Photography - This holiday season, gift the joy of memories with personalized portrait session gift certificates—a unique and thoughtful way to celebrate love, family, and the moments that matter most. Can be used in the 2024 calendar year!

Other holiday guides:

As we conclude this journey through our local offerings, I hope this guide has sparked inspiration for meaningful and thoughtful gifts. By choosing to support our small businesses, you've not only discovered unique treasures but also contributed to the vibrancy of our community. Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, connection, and the delight of giving. Happy holidays!

About the Author

Tracey Westgate is a family and branding photographer on the North Shore of Boston. Serving families and businesses of the North Shore:  Amesbury, Beverly, Danvers, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Lynn, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Marblehead, Nahant, Newbury, Newburyport, Peabody, Revere, Rockport, Rowley, Salem, Salisbury, Saugus, and Swampscott, Wenham and beyond. Tracey loves telling your authentic story, just as you are.

Image by Courtney Oulette Photography

What to Wear: Holiday Tree Farm Sessions 2023

We’re all booked and ready to go and now the age old question- what should we wear? Here are a few tips as you prepare for your session.

1. Dress warm and in layers

This is my top tip for outdoor sessions this time of year. If people are cold, especially children, it really comes through in the photos. Think of incorporating jackets, scarves and hats into your images, especially if it will be chilly at the time of your session. We can pop jackets on and off for photos, but being prepared to be photographed in warmer clothes makes us much more versatile and comfortable.

Layering can add depth and texture to your holiday session. Consider wearing sweaters, cardigans, scarves, or shawls. Layers not only keep you warm but also provide opportunities for creative styling and posing. Textures add some visual interest to your photos. Examples include chunky knits, tweed, denim, and wool.

A very cozy family! Boston Public Garden, December 2021

2. Start with the most difficult person to style

There is usually one person in the family who has either strong personal tastes- or may be a little more difficult to style for whatever reason. For example, a few years ago, that was me! I started by planning my own outfit and then we built the rest of the family’s outfits from there. This year, with a teenager, they have very strong opinions, so we started there.

3. Coordinate, don’t match

While coordinating outfits is essential, avoid dressing everyone in identical outfits. Instead, go for a harmonious color scheme or theme that complements each other's attire. This allows individual personalities to shine through and adds visual interest to your photos. If you are having a hard time choosing colors, choose ONE patterned piece- this could be a shirt, dress, scarf, etc. Pull the colors for all other pieces from this pattern. 

Opt for classic, timeless pieces that won't look outdated in a few years. 

4. Consider the background 

The tree farm is very green! Colors that look great here are jewel tones and warm neutrals. Pops of color are great to break it up. Try to avoid green, and lots of dark colors. Classic red can be used to be festive, but think if it more of an accent rather than a full outfit.

5. Dress for your personality

While embracing the holiday theme is important, don't forget to let your personality shine through. If you have a quirky or unique sense of style, feel free to incorporate that into your outfit to make your photos uniquely "you."

Embrace individuality! Instead of forcing kiddos to conform, embrace their individual flair! Less stress and the kids will be happier. For our own family photos, this meant letting my son wear his “comfy pants” as opposed to khakis or jeans.

6. Keep comfort in mind

The key to a successful photoshoot is comfort. Make sure you can move freely in your chosen attire, as your session will involve sitting, standing, and some playful prompts with your kids. 

7. Footwear

After all this planning, don’t forget the footwear! Shoes don’t have to be fancy or expensive, but do consider how your footwear complements your outfit. Heels can be hard at the farm. Think of what looks most natural for the setting - shoes, booties, boots.

8. Be festive but avoid overdoing it

While it's important to embrace the holiday spirit, remember that subtlety can go a long way. Avoid over-the-top outfits that may distract from the people in the photos.

9. Test outfits in advance

Before the big day, try on your chosen outfits and see how they look together. This will help you identify any wardrobe clashes or issues before the photoshoot. If you have any questions at all, throw your outfit choices on your bed, take a photo, and text me! We can talk through options together.

10. Consider hiring an expert

Lisa Ann Schraffa Santin /LASS Wardrobe LLC is a wonderful local stylist, and has helped me plan for our own family photography session! Her packages start at just $75, and she can assist you via zoom and text to keep things easy. To book a free consult, visit https://www.lasswardrobe.com/

Here are my top 5 things to avoid:

  • Multiple patterns

  • Solid black and solid white tops

  • Too many colors/ clashing colors

  • Shirts with lots of graphics, logos, or writing

  • Lots of classic red


    Overall, I’m here for you! Don’t hesitate to email or text with any questions you may have. I’m looking forward to seeing you!

-Tracey

What to Wear: Holiday Studio Sessions 2023

We’re all booked and ready to go and now the age old question- what should we wear? Here are a few tips as you prepare for your session.

1. Start with the most difficult person to style

There is usually one person in the family who has either strong personal tastes- or may be a little more difficult to style for whatever reason. For example, a few years ago, that was me! I started by planning my own outfit and then we built the rest of the family’s outfits from there. This year, with a teenager, they have very strong opinions, so we started there.

Our family portrait by Autumn Skye, 2020.

2. Coordinate, don’t match

While coordinating outfits is essential, avoid dressing everyone in identical outfits. Instead, go for a harmonious color scheme or theme that complements each other's attire. This allows individual personalities to shine through and adds visual interest to your photos. If you are having a hard time choosing colors, choose ONE patterned piece- this could be a shirt, dress, scarf, etc. Pull the colors for all other pieces from this pattern. 

Opt for classic, timeless pieces that won't look outdated in a few years. 

3. Consider the background 

Modern Studio (morning sessions)  - The modern studio has two looks- North Star and Winter Ice. North Star is mainly emerald green and gold. Winter Ice is more white/silver/evergreen.

North Star

Winter Ice

Colors that will look nice for morning sessions include: Plum, maroon, gold, camel, ivory, warm neutrals. I would avoid green, navy blue, and classic red.

Traditional Studio (afternoon sessions) - The traditional studio will be decorated with a Christmas tree, greenery, timeless holiday decor, and has a camel colored couch.

Colors that will look nice for afternoon sessions include: jewel tones, warm neutrals. I would avoid bright white, black, and classic red.

4. Play with textures & layers

Layering can add depth and texture to your holiday studio session. Consider wearing sweaters, cardigans, scarves, or shawls. Layers not only keep you warm but also provide opportunities for creative styling and posing. Textures add some visual interest to your photos. Examples include chunky knits, tweed, denim, and wool.

5. Dress for your personality

While embracing the holiday theme is important, don't forget to let your personality shine through. If you have a quirky or unique sense of style, feel free to incorporate that into your outfit to make your photos uniquely "you."

Embrace individuality! Instead of forcing kiddos to conform, embrace their individual flair! Less stress and the kids will be happier. For our own family photos, this meant letting my son wear his “comfy pants” as opposed to khakis or jeans.

6. Keep comfort in mind

The key to a successful photoshoot is comfort. Make sure you can move freely in your chosen attire, as your session will involve sitting, standing, and some playful prompts with your kids. 

7. Footwear

After all this planning, don’t forget the footwear! Shoes don’t have to be fancy or expensive, but do consider how your footwear complements your outfit. 

8. Be festive but avoid overdoing it

While it's important to embrace the holiday spirit, remember that subtlety can go a long way. Avoid over-the-top outfits that may distract from the people in the photos.

9. Test outfits in advance

Before the big day, try on your chosen outfits and see how they look together. This will help you identify any wardrobe clashes or issues before the photoshoot. If you have any questions at all, throw your outfit choices on your bed, take a photo, and text me! We can talk through options together.

Here are my top 5 things to avoid:

  • Multiple patterns

  • Solid black and solid white tops

  • Too many colors/ clashing colors

  • Shirts with lots of graphics, logos, or writing

  • Lots of classic red

    Overall, I’m here for you! Don’t hesitate to email or text with any questions you may have. I’m looking forward to seeing you!

-Tracey


 

Summertime Fun!

Summer is in full swing and parents everywhere are on the lookout for engaging activities to keep their kids entertained and create lasting memories. Luckily, I’ve got you covered!

I asked a bunch of you what you love and you came through! Grab your favorite beverage, find a comfy spot and take a look at this treasure trove of ideas from other real parents and caregivers just like you!

Coming right up — and in my own town:

  • Art Grows Here: “Art Grows Here is a FREE, map-guided tour of outdoor art made by people in Hamilton and Wenham. It’s a wonderful way to get to know your community and your neighbors while being inspired by some amazing and creative public art.” Opens 7/28, and runs through 8/7. For more info: https://www.wenhammuseum.org

Ice Cream Sandos - A collaboration between Treat Bakery and Down River Ice Cream. Available at the Crane Beach Snack Shack. Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

Ice cream came in STRONG with you all… and I love it! Here are your favorite shops:

Strawberry Hill, Ipwsich. Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

Parks/Nature: The North Shore is just bursting with beauty and has such a variety of ways to explore it. Here are a few ideas!

“Mass Audubon Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield. Some short easy trails, river walk, birds will eat right out your hands. There’s picnic benches and a cute little playground. With a membership you also have access to canoes, paddles, and life vests which you can take out on the river.”
— Elizabeth D.

Pools:

Libraries:

  • Check out your local library for reading programs, incentives and fun kid activities!

Appleton Farms, Ipswich. Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

Farms:

Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester. Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

Beaches:

  • Pavilion Beach, Ipswich. A major bonus is the adjacent “pirate playground.”

  • Gull Pond/trails behind Gordon College, Wenham. Park behind Frost Hall to walk out to Gull Pond and the small beach.

  • Dane Street Beach, Beverly. A bonus, it has an adjacent playground.

  • Lynch Park, Beverly. Two beaches as well as a splash pad, playground, snack shack and Rose Garden. One reader suggested crab hunting there!

  • Long Beach, Rockport

  • Front Beach, Rockport - A small beach with rocks to climb. My kids loved this beach when they were little because the waves were almost non-existent!

  • Stage Fort Park, Gloucester. Playground and Half Moon Beach

  • Constitution Beach, East Boston. Playground is across from the runway at Logan, so you can watch the planes. No waves, so easy to watch littles.

  • Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester. Great for a short walk out to the island at low tide.

  • Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester. Great for climbing on rocks and finding tide pools.

  • Singing Beach, Manchester.

*Unfortunately some beaches have been closed to swimming this year due to bacteria, so be sure to do a quick google search before heading out! Many beaches require advanced reservations now (Crane, Gloucester Beaches, and possibly more).

Splash Pads:

Playgrounds: So many great playgrounds, but here on the ones you mentioned!

  • Dane Street Playground, Beverly.

  • Patton Park, Hamilton. Also has Sunday Night concerts in the summer.

  • Sony Myers Playground, Revere. Big and fully enclosed.

  • Another great resource for playground news: Park Hoppah Facebook Group - caregivers report on various playgrounds and parks. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1842131829442563

Mini Golf:

Indoor activities: For when that heat gets too much, or that rain is too hard, here are some fun indoor activities:

Candy! Fun fact: I worked in a candy store for 5 years and absolutely loved it! Here’s your picks for candy on the North Shore:

Other Goodies:

Day trips:

“Coastal Maine Botanical Garden to see Guardians of the Seeds. They have these huge wooden trolls through out the gardens to find. They are amazing! They also have a cute splash pad for the kids to cool off and an entire area that’s for kids. It’s a drive but totally worth it. We stop in this cute little restaurant not far from the botanical garden to have dinner. We go at least twice a summer and the kids love it. ”
— Dee A.

Other places to find what you need:

Hanging with Grandpa! Photo: Tracey Westgate Photography.

And… winning the internet, Erin F. says “Their grandparents’ house!” 

I hope you learned something new today that helps you create some family memories!

As Thomas Jefferson says in the Broadway Musical Hamilton….

Tracey Westgate headshot by Shirley Anne Photography

About the Author

Tracey Westgate is a family photographer on the North Shore of Boston. Serving families of the North Shore:  Amesbury, Beverly, Danvers, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Lynn, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Marblehead, Nahant, Newbury, Newburyport, Peabody, Revere, Rockport, Rowley, Salem, Salisbury, Saugus, and Swampscott, Wenham and beyond. Tracey loves telling your authentic story, just as you are.

Cozy at home session

The Waite Family