Paella Party

at the Hamburg Cove Yacht Club

Saturday, September 26, 2026 - 5:30 pm

Only 25 Tickets Available!

Experience an unforgettable evening of Spanish flavor and festive charm as the Hamburg Cove Yacht Club in Lyme, CT is transformed into an intimate celebration inspired by the vibrant spirit of Spain. There are only 25 tickets at $150 each so grab your friends and enjoy this festive evening.

Your night begins with an abundant grazing table featuring Spanish and artisanal cheeses, cured meats, olives, almonds, and seasonal fruits. Sip handcrafted, Spanish-inspired cocktails created exclusively for this event.

Dine under twinkling lights at beautifully set communal tables, where every glass stays full and every plate is thoughtfully prepared. Enjoy expertly selected Spanish wines paired to enhance the rich, aromatic flavors of the paella.

Live guitar and classic melodies will fill the room, creating a warm, lively, and relaxed atmosphere throughout the evening.

LIVE AUCTION ITEM

Private Chefs' Curated Dinner for 8 at

Smith Farm Gardens East Haddam, CT

Thursday, Oct. 1 or Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026

Experience an evening of timeless beauty and exceptional cuisine with a private dinner for 8 at the historic Smith Farm Gardens. This lovingly preserved 18th-century farmhouse-surrounded by rolling lawns, lush gardens, an apple orchard, and serene walking paths, offers a setting that feels worlds away.

Your chefs for the night, Tami Grooney and Mary Ellen Forster of Miso Luna Catering, will create a bespoke five-course seasonal menu that showcases their signature approach: Seasonal. Local. Thoughtfully Prepared. Each course highlights fresh, distinctive ingredients that celebrate the flavors of the season.

Your experience includes:

• A welcoming cocktail hour with refined hors d'oeuvres
• A beautifully composed seasonal salad
• A thoughtfully crafted main course
• A refreshing palate cleanser
• A decadent dessert finale
• Expertly selected wine pairings to complement each course. This is more than a dinner-it's an immersive journey into New England charm, culinary artistry, and unforgettable hospitality.

Looking for a fun night out? Enjoy one of the fantastic hands-on cooking classes at Kitch in Mystic, CT for four people. Explore their wide range of class offerings on the Kitch website - there truly is something for every taste and skill level.

Learn to cook a new dish (and have a great time doing it), then enjoy the best part: eating your creation. Your experience also includes a beer or wine tasting to complement the menu.

Host a bourbon tasting for friends or enjoy an exceptional collection on your own with this curated selection of 6 bottles straight from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The lineup includes Weller Antique 107 Bourbon, Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon, Traveler Whiskey Full Proof, Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon. This collection showcases a range of styles, offering a unique opportunity to explore the craftsmanship and flavor profiles that make Kentucky bourbon legendary.

Included is a nice array of Buffalo Trace accessories.

NOTE: There are two packages of Kentucky bourbons with different bourbons in each offered in the auction (item 110 and item 111). Bid on one or perhaps both packages!

Host a bourbon tasting for friends or enjoy an exceptional collection on your own with this curated selection of 6 bottles straight from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The lineup includes Blanton's Single Barrel Whiskey, Eagle Rare 10 Year, Traveller Blend No. 40, Weller Special Reserve, Sazerac Rye, Buffalo Trace White Dog Mash #1. This collection showcases a range of styles, offering a unique opportunity to explore the craftsmanship and flavor profiles that make Kentucky bourbon legendary.

Included is a nice array of Buffalo Trace accessories.

NOTE: There are two packages of Kentucky bourbons with different bourbons in each offered in the auction (item 110 and item 111). Bid on one or perhaps both packages!

Spend a delightful afternoon in the heart of Essex, where charming shops, coastal style, and local flavor come together. Start by browsing the lovely collections at J. Alden Clothiers and enjoy 20% off your purchase, perfect for finding something special in one of the village's most beloved boutiques. Then stop into Port + Willow with a $50 gift certificate discover thoughtfully selected clothing, gifts, and unique treasures.

Pause for lunch for four at The Black Seal, a local favorite known for its warm atmosphere and menu inspired by the CT Shoreline. Savor fresh, flavorful dishes and drinks that celebrate New England traditions with a modern touch.

Complete the day with a $200 gift card to Homeward Collective, where beautifully crafted furnishings and timeless pieces offer the perfect finishing touch to your visit. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the best of Essex-shopping, dining, and discovering the charm of this quintessential Connecticut village.

Transform your home into the ultimate culinary destination with a four-course dinner for eight, personally curated and prepared by Chef Edwin Armstrong-Culinary Department Head at Eli Whitney Technical High School and a classically trained Johnson & Wales University chef.

Chef Edwin will collaborate with you to design the menu inspired by your choice of Italian, French or Thai cuisine. With years of experience serving private clients along the Connecticut shoreline, he blends refined technique with warm, effortless hospitality.

On the night of your event, Chef Edwin and his sous chef take care of everything: menu planning, ingredient sourcing, preparation, cooking, plating, and complete cleanup. You and your guests simply relax, indulge, and savor a restaurant-quality dining experience in the comfort of your own home.

Valid within 25 miles of Westbrook, CT. Friday or Saturday evening - mutually agreed-upon date. Experience must be used by October 30, 2026.

Relax and enjoy a personal 3-course Italian dinner for 6 with Italian wine pairings presented by wine enthusiast Ron Barhorst. This gourmet dinner will be served in the newly renovated "Wine Cellar Room" - the perfect place to host your next special event! Decorated with a Tuscan flare surrounded by Buon Appetito's private wine collection, you'll feel like you are dining in an Italian villa.

Buon Appetito is a family owned and operated Italian restaurant that serves an eclectic mix of northern Italian dishes in a warm and relaxed environment. They strive for the highest standards in service, food and overall presentation because they believe that dining out is not just about food, it's about a true dining experience.

Step into the heart of Washington, DC with an exclusive, immersive getaway for four. This one-of-a-kind package features rare, behind-the-scenes access at the International Spy Museum, where you'll uncover the hidden world of espionage through a private-style insider experience few ever see.

Continue your journey at the National Geographic Museum of Exploration with a 90-minute 'behind-the-scenes Tour' giving you special access to exhibits not normally seen by the public and a 60-minute guided tour to learn more about the National Geographic's discoveries.

Enjoy a luxurious stay with a $500 credit at the JW Marriott Washington, DC, ideally located on Pennsylvania Avenue near the city's most iconic landmarks. Complete your escape with a $250 dining credit at Ocean Prime, where refined ambiance meets exceptional cuisine.

Embark on a memorable day cruise for 4 from Essex, CT to Sag Harbor, NY aboard Wanderlust, a luxurious Back Cove 37.

Your adventure includes:
- A scenic voyage across Long Island Sound, captained by Michael Furgueson and Adeline Neubert
- Lunch with a $200 gift card to the iconic American Hotel
- An optional walking tour guided by local native Adeline Neubert
- A refreshing swim stop in beautiful Coecles Harbor on Shelter Island on your return journey

Relax, explore, and enjoy this unique nautical experience - perfect for friends, family, or a special celebration.

Treat yourself and seven guests to an unforgettable summer evening on the tranquil shores of Hamburg Cove in scenic Lyme, Connecticut.

Your waterfront experience begins with a relaxed cocktail hour featuring wine, refreshing gin and tonics, and hearty New England Clam Chowder. As the sun sets over the cove, enjoy a classic New England Lobster Dinner complete with fresh local lobster, potato salad, and a cucumber-tomato salad made for summer dining by the water.

To finish the evening, guests will be served a seasonal fresh berry tart -- the perfect sweet ending to a memorable coastal gathering.

The winning bidder may select one of the following available dates for this exclusive dinner experience: July 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, or August 28, 29, 30.

Disguised as a whimsical rescue vehicle, the "Ice Cream Emergency" Truck will come to your house and scoop ice cream sundaes for 40 guests. Weather is not a concern as your guests board the Ice Cream Emergency Bus and are served inside. With many ice cream and topping options, your guests will talk about the Ice Cream Emergency for years to come!

Turn any gathering into a delicious celebration with the Rolling Tomato: a pizza truck that comes directly to your location and serves fresh, made-to-order pizzas for up to 40 people. Perfect for birthdays, block parties, or family get-togethers, this experience brings the fun and flavor of a mobile pizzeria right to you. Owner and pizza chef, Matt Burnside, will pair your pizza with hand-picked, wines!

Your guests will enjoy handcrafted pies made with quality ingredients, cooked to perfection in the truck's on-board oven. From classic favorites to creative specialty options, there's something for everyone. The pizza truck team handles everything - prep, cooking, and serving-so you can relax and enjoy the event. Bid now and bring the pizza party to your doorstep.

Enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience at the Brushmill by the Waterfall for four people valued at $600.

The Brushmill is known for its seasonally inspired menu, crafted to reflect the very best of the region. For something truly special, the restaurant also offers an ever-changing tasting menu.

Set in the picturesque, charming town of Chester, the restaurant's atmosphere is as memorable as the meal-perfect for a romantic evening, a celebratory night out, or a refined dining adventure.

Whether a special occasion or beautiful summer evening, pop open these three bottles of Veuve Clicquot and enjoy. This fresh tasting champagne has a perfect balance of strength, silkiness, and aromatic intensity. Included in this package is a champagne bucket and four elegant champagne flutes. Enjoy!

Elevate your knowledge cheese with a yearlong journey of flavor, curated by Christine Chesanek, owner of Fromage Fine Foods & Coffee in Old Saybrook. Every other month for a full year-beginning July 2025, you'll receive a beautifully presented, themed trio of artisan cheeses, perfectly paired with gourmet crackers. Each selection is handpicked to expand your palate and introduce you to exceptional cheeses from around the world.

Highclere Castle Spirits officially launched its Peach Rose Gin in March 2026. This super-premium expression is the brand's first flavored line extension, inspired by the estate's summer gardens. This beautiful bottle comes an exquisite white lacquered box a gold-plated handle and closure. Very chic!

The gin is crafted using botanicals sourced directly from the Highclere Castle estate, including: Lady Carnarvon roses, estate peaches, and Highclere honey. The flavor profile is described as light and delicate, bridging a traditional London Dry structure with contemporary fruit-forward notes of sun-ripened peach and floral rose.

Also included are 4 stunning crystal rocks glasses with an etched Ralph Lauren Polo logo on each.

Take the stress out of the holiday and let Coffee's Country Market in Old Lyme prepare a delicious, home-style Thanksgiving feast for you and your loved ones. This dinner for 8-10 people includes a turkey, gravy, stuffing, your choice of four sides, and pies. It doesn't get much better than this!

Lobster boil for two from Atlantic Seafood in Old Saybrook! Included are two lobsters, two ears of corn, potatoes and your choice of littleneck clams, mussels, or steamers. Just add water, turn up the heat and steam. A super easy and delicious dinner on a summer night.

Add charm and craft cocktails to your next celebration with The Bubbly Burro! Amanda Gere arrives in her beautifully refurbished vintage horse trailer, fully stocked and ready to serve up a truly memorable experience at your home. Known for her attention to detail and fresh ingredients, Amanda elevates every gathering and can even customize the drink menu to match your party's theme. This package is for 20 people for up to three hours.

Included are two signature cocktails, two beers on tap, and four wine selections.

Please visit The Bubbly Burro website for add-ons and other options for cocktails available at the cost of the winning bidder. Note: The Bubbly Burro has a CT Liquor License allowing them to supply the alcohol. The Bubbly Burro also carries general and liquor liability insurance, so you know your event is protected.

Treat yourself and a guest to a rejuvenating afternoon in the heart of charming Old Saybrook. Begin your afternoon with a delicious lunch at Nori, a local favorite Japanese restaurant. Dine on Sushi or a cooked entree using your $50 gift certificate. .

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll down the street to The Spring Wellness Center, where you'll both indulge in a side-by-side Swedish massage - the ultimate way to relax, recharge, and enjoy quality time together.

Enjoy eight bottles of Larrea Reserva Malbec 2021, a distinguished red from Mendoza, Argentina. This wine shows a deep, vibrant color and opens with expressive aromas of red fruits such as plums and cherries. On the palate, it is balanced, round, and elegantly structured, revealing layers of black fruit alongside subtle notes of spice and oak.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening along the scenic Connecticut River with two tickets to 'Crazy for You' at the historic Goodspeed Opera House. Valid for any Wednesday, Thursday, or Sunday evening performance between June 21 and July 19, 2026, this Tony Award-winning musical comedy brings the timeless music of George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin to life with beloved classics including "I Got Rhythm," "Someone to Watch Over Me," and "Embraceable You." Filled with dazzling tap dancing, romance, and Broadway magic, this intimate theater experience is a true Connecticut treasure.

Before the curtain rises, enjoy dining at the Gelston House, a beloved landmark in the heart of East Haddam with $100 gift card. Overlooking the river and neighboring the opera house, the Gelston House combines historic charm with modern American cuisine. Whether enjoying a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, cocktails on the patio, or a special celebration, every visit offers warm hospitality and memorable shoreline dining.

Enjoy an unforgettable day on the Connecticut shoreline aboard Black Hawk Sport Fishing, Niantic's favorite sport fishing boat. This experience is for one adult and one child (12 years old or younger) and includes rods and reels for a morning, afternoon, or mid-day fishing trip filled with fun and lasting memories on the water.

After your adventure, head to Fat Tuna and enjoy a delicious meal with your $100 gift certificate. Located on scenic Niantic Bay, Chef Anthony D'Angelo is known for serving exceptional locally sourced seafood and Italian dishes that guests rave about.

Enjoy the best of Mystic with this unforgettable local experience package! Use this $150 gift card, and indulge in a delicious dining experience at the iconic S&P Oyster House, located along the scenic Mystic River. Then dive into history and maritime adventure with a one-year dual plus membership to Mystic Seaport Museum, offering unlimited admission, special exhibits, and member-exclusive events for two adults and one guest. Complete the experience with a one-year family membership for two adults and 2 childern to Mystic Museum of Art, where creativity and culture come together through inspiring exhibitions, classes, and family-friendly

Enjoy an elegant Boeuf Bourguignon dinner for six, delivered straight to your door. Inspired by Julia Child's timeless French classic, this meal features tender beef slow-braised in rich red wine and savory herbs, accompanied by a fresh salad and your choice of a side dish. Complete the evening with your choice of a pear ginger tart or creamy cheesecake. Bon Appetit!

The Old Lyme Inn is known for their comfortable atmosphere, contemporary New England fare, and gracious service. Enjoy dinner for two with a starter, main course and dessert. After dinner enjoy an evening of jazz at The Side Door Jazz Club, a one-of-a-kind venue with world class jazz every Friday and Saturday night.

Escape to the Connecticut Shoreline with a getaway for 2 at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina. Spend the day exploring Old Saybrook, browsing local shops, strolling along the waterfront, and soaking in the coastal atmosphere. Back at the resort, unwind with sunset views at the Marina Bar or relax with a cocktail at the Choo Choo Lounge. This package includes a one-night stay in a standard room for two adults, plus breakfast for 2.

Complete your getaway with a delicious dining experience at The Essex with a $200 gift certificate. This modern American restaurant celebrates the rich heritage of the Connecticut River Valley with cuisine inspired by the land and sea.

Enjoy a two-night stay for two with breakfasts at The Homestead, nestled along the coastline of Southern New England in the small beach town of Madison, Connecticut. Nearby beaches, unique shopping and wonderful restaurants will all delight you.

The B&B has 11 individual bedrooms, each with their own private bathroom. This boutique inn has several public areas available to guests including a living room with fireplace, dining room, and sunroom. They also offer extensive outdoor grounds with patios, two fire pits and a deck.

Included is a $50 gift card to Donahue's Madison Beach Grill along with a wonderful large tote embossed with the B&B's dog and filled with a Homestead hooded sweatshirt, a Homestead ball cap, and a 750 ml bottle of Highclere Castle gin.

Enjoy a fun-filled evening in Old Saybrook with two tickets to see Rubix Kube at Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center on June 20th, 2026 at 8:00 pm. This imaginative and entertaining production brings the iconic puzzle to life through dazzling visuals, humor, and clever storytelling inspired by the magic and mystery of the beloved Rubik's Cube.

Before the show, enjoy dinner at Penny Lane Pub with your $75 gift certificate. This cozy two-story English-style pub is known for its warm hospitality, inviting atmosphere, and satisfying fare--the perfect start to a memorable night out.

You and three guests are invited to take a tour of Matunuck Oyster Farm. The tour will begin with an introductory discussion about aquaculture and fisheries on a global and local scale while you visit our seven-acre shellfish farm in Potter Pond. Tours of the oyster farm in Potter Pond are a unique feature of the Matunuck experience where visitors see the different species of shellfish in different stages of growth.

Auction item includes:

• Four Oyster Farm Tour Tickets
• Bottle of Taittinger Champagne
• Two Dozen Matunuck Oysters

Enjoy a truly special experience at the Florence Griswold Museum with a private, Curator-led tour for up to four guests. Explore inspiring exhibitions celebrating American Impressionism and the legacy of the Lyme Art Colony, led by a knowledgeable guide. Your visit also includes an exclusive tour of the National Historic Landmark Griswold House, where artists once lived and worked, leaving their creative mark throughout the home.

After your tour, savor a delightful lunch at Cafe Flo on the veranda overlooking the Lieutenant River, featuring fresh, seasonal dishes or a picnic on the scenic grounds with a $100 gift card.

All aboard the elegant Essex Clipper for a 4-course meal served in beautifully restored 1920's Pullman diners pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive for 4 people. Relax and reconnect while the 2-2 1/2-hour scenic journey soothes away the stress of everyday life. The rhythm of the rails and our attentive staff transport you back to the day when rail travel was king and "dinner and the diner" was a delicious special occasion.

Ambiance, impeccable service, and fabulous food are enhanced during a breathtaking sightseeing journey throughout the pristine Connecticut River Valley - designated one of the "last great places on Earth" by the Nature Conservancy.

Having a party? This beautifully curated charcuterie board, from Shoreline Boards, will be the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, featuring an elegant cheese knife set and a thoughtfully selected assortment of gourmet delights. Enjoy a variety of four premium cheeses and three savory meats, complemented by a vibrant mix of fresh and dried fruits, briny olives, and flavorful spreads. To satisfy every palate, the board also includes a selection of sweets and an assortment of crisp, delicious crackers, making it an irresistible experience for entertaining or indulging.

Treat yourself and 4 friends to a 4-course dinner at Cafe Laurel. This dinner can be held at the Killingworth location or their new location on Lyme Street in Old Lyme. Chef Jen Parkinson will be sure to tantalize your taste buds with her expertise and finesse in the kitchen. Jen will customize the menu to your liking. Alcohol not included but feel free to bring your own.

Enjoy this curated collection of wines featuring three elegant white wines and three bold reds, hand-selected from some of the world's most beloved wine-producing destinations. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring an evening with friends, this international assortment offers a delicious journey through renowned vineyards and distinctive terroirs. Cheers to discovering your next favorite pour!

Shake, stir, and sip your way to an unforgettable evening! Perfect for entertaining, this cocktail lover's collection includes everything you need to craft a variety of crowd-pleasing drinks at home. Featuring a bottle of premium Ketel One Vodka along with the ingredients to create classic martinis, refreshing margaritas, and more, this package is sure to elevate your next gathering. Invite your friends, mix up some delicious cocktails, and toast to a great cause!