It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what could be more magical than a holiday trip to New York City? Sandy and I had a few exciting projects underway, so we set up shop in Tribeca at the iconic Roxy Hotel. This gem felt like a nostalgic holiday postcard come to life—big band tunes mingling with the warm notes of piano holiday classics. The food, drinks, and entertainment were a feast for the senses, and after a long, rainy travel day, the cozy room accommodations were the perfect retreat.

Day two dawned with an urgent need for coffee before we headed to Jersey City, where Grammy-winning Carla Patullo and the Scorchio Quartet performed a breathtaking concert at New Jersey City University. Unconditionally Her Media captured the magic with behind-the-scenes footage for an upcoming project. Not even the relentless rain could dampen the evening’s joy—Carla’s talent lit up the night, making it truly unforgettable.

On day three, the rain gave way to sunshine as we ventured north into Manhattan to Jungle City Studios. Lunch brought us to Hudson Market, where the bodega-inspired spread felt quintessentially New York. Back at the studio, we witnessed Carla’s brilliance as her music filled the room with flawless harmony. Riding the high of such spectacular artistry, we closed the evening in the Theater District to see & Juliet. The dazzling show was followed by a festive stroll through Times Square and Rockefeller Center, where the iconic Christmas tree, ice skaters, and the scent of roasted chestnuts completed the holiday magic.

Day four began with a fun stop at the Ghostbusters Museum, conveniently just around the corner from our hotel. Then, it was time to embrace the Christmas spirit fully at Macy’s Herald Square. We wandered the charming outdoor holiday markets before ascending the legendary escalators to Santaland—a 13,000-square-foot wonderland welcoming hundreds of thousands each year. Macy’s has been “The Home of Santa Claus” since 1861, and Sandy and I couldn’t resist sharing our holiday wishes with the man in red himself.

And so, here’s a toast to the season, friends! May your holidays be filled with love, laughter, and a little NYC magic. Happy holidays, y’all!