The Hamptons has always felt like a place of legend to me—something straight out of The Great Gatsby (though I’m still not sure if that’s really where the story takes place, haha). So when my friend Achille, aka “The Mayor of the Diaspora,” reached out about a retreat in the Hamptons, I knew I had to be part of it. I had no idea what to expect, but I was down for the ride.
With my trusty Jeep Wagoneer loaded up (highly recommend it, by the way), I made the solo trip to the Hamptons, packed with enough food to feed 25 hungry souls. This wasn’t just any gathering—it was a celebration of the diaspora, and I was cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner for people I’d never met before. No pressure, right?
I kicked things off with a poolside BBQ, and as we gathered in the backyard under the stars, the magic began. I wasn’t just cooking food; I was creating connections. Over the weekend, we laughed, had deep talks, shared light moments, and just vibed. By the end, I felt like I’d gained a whole new family. What made it even more special was the purpose behind it—celebrating and serving our community. Huge shoutout to Freddy, who had the idea of donating our unused and unopened items to a local shelter. We dropped off fresh produce and leftover supplies. It was a weekend of giving back and partying hard. Honestly, what more can you ask for?
That weekend in Sag Harbor was filled with memories, and I can’t wait to do it all again. The Hamptons isn’t just about luxury; it’s about building community and history, especially in places like Sag Harbor that hold deep cultural significance for African Americans. Looking forward to the next Vibe Check retreat!
