Marisa MacLean, owner and publisher
After a career in advertising and marketing, selling premier out-of-home media in Times Square and Las Vegas, Marisa launched Westport Lifestyle in 2018 to celebrate the remarkable people, small businesses, and community spirit that make Westport and Weston thrive. She lives in Weston with her husband, two children, and puppy Sparky.
Sara Gaynes Levy, editor
Sara has been the editor of Westport Lifestyle since December 2023 and truly considers this a dream job. Bringing together these amazing stories and storytellers—all part of this incredibly vibrant community!—is a joy each month. In addition to Westport Lifestyle, her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Harvard Business Review, The Guardian, PEOPLE, Vogue, New York Magazine, Glamour, and many more.
Sophia Andersen, social media manager
A Weston native, Sophia began writing for Westport Lifestyle in 2018 (here since the first issue!) before stepping into the role of Social Media Manager in 2023. She has a blast bringing the people, places, and moments of Westport/Weston to life across the magazine’s social media pages.
Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, contributing writer
Lauren is a multi-platform storyteller with over two decades of experience spanning TV, digital, print, books, podcasts, and radio. She has worked as a TV writer/producer for networks like Bravo, Peacock, CBS, and BET. Her editorial bylines include The Cut, Parents, Slate, and Glamour. She currently explores the Y2K teen-magazine era, where her career began, through her Substack, The Teen Mag Time Machine: theteenmagtimemachine.substack.com.
Yael L. Maxwell, contributing writer
Yael is a staff journalist for TCTMD.com, where she covers cardiovascular news and hosts the Hearts & Minds podcast, but she loves exploring local gems and inspirational neighbors through her work with Westport Lifestyle. Yael serves on the Board of Trustees for the CT/RI chapter of the National MS Society and has a side gig as a wedding officiant!
Bevy Rutledge, photographer
Bevy partners with brands to develop social content that is cohesive, authentic, and aligned, while still designed to connect and perform. With a background in photography and videography, she understands the full production process, but also knows that sometimes the most powerful content starts with a strong hook and an iPhone. For Westport Lifestyle, Bevy has shot covers, parties, and this month's Women of Westport package.
Ali Schwartz Balbes, contributing writer
Ali grew up in West Hartford, and after spending many years living in N.Y.C., L.A., and Miami, settled down in Weston last March with her husband Jake and goldendoodle Rory. By day, Ali is a Creative Producer at YouTube. She and Jake are expecting their first child around the release of this issue!
John Videler, photographer
John is a Connecticut-based photographer specializing in events, portraits, and community storytelling. His work captures genuine moments with a candid, documentary style and has been featured in publications and private collections throughout the region.
Elizabeth Ginns Britten, contributing writer
Liz has been writing and editing for national magazines and global book publishers for 20-plus years. For Westport Lifestyle, she focuses on profile pieces about the people and stories that make this community unique. Originally from Boston, Liz has been a Westport resident for 12 years, and lives here with her husband, their 13-year-old twins, and their dog.
Anna Barnes, contributing writer
Anna is a luxury PR pro, journalist, and the voice behind Bliss & Bellinis, where she shares her passion for travel, unique experiences, and curating a life filled with style and adventure. Originally from Ohio, she’s happily called Fairfield County home for the past decade. When she’s not crafting stories for brands or on deadline, she’s usually on a plane—and always ready for a Bellini.
Jen Berniker, contributing writer
Through her platform Designport (@my_designport), Jen spotlights the designers, artists, and creative businesses shaping homes throughout Fairfield County. A Westport resident, contributing writer, and mother of two, she also serves on the BMS PTA board and the Connecticut regional board of Experience Camps.