The Tides Inn Blog

The Tides Inn Bloghttp://www.tidesinn.comumbraco <h1>Rising Tides</h1> Just as the Chesapeake waters flow in fresh new patterns every day, so our view from the Tides is constantly refreshed by the people who visit us. Whether you're a longtime guest or awaiting your first trip to our secluded peninsula, we look forward to welcoming you in person and seeing your comments online. en <img src="/media/76147/moonrise_buckheadneck.jpg" width="336" height="438" alt="Moonrise _Buckhead Neck"/>On Mother's Day weekend, Tides Inn Boutique will host a <a href="http://www.moonrisejewelry.com" title="moonrise">Moonrise Jewelry</a> trunk show with founder and designer Meredith Restein.  Merredith's handcrafted jewelry is colorful, wearable art inspired by the world's most beautiful coasts, including that of Cape Charles, her hometown on Virginia's Eastern Shore.  She designs each piece using eco-friendly components like real orchid blossoms preserved in resin and fish leather made from salmon, perch and carp skins discarded by the canning industry.  Meredith created this stylish and sustainable enterprise in 2002 and has since trained and provided work for dozens of women in her rural community. Moonrise Jewelry has been singled out by Meryl Streep who named it a "Top Product Pick" in her Green Guide, and it's been featured in Lucky magazine and on NBC's TODAY Show.  Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, awarded Meredith a "Leg Up" endorsement as part of her mission to empower women entrepreneurs. Stop by the Tides Inn Boutique to meet Meredith and find your statement piece! Saturday May 11, 10am to 6pm Sunday May 12, 10am to 3pm Weddings & Social On Mother's Day weekend, Tides Inn Boutique will host a Moonrise Jewelry trunk show featuring handcrafted bracelets, earrings and necklaces--sustainable art pieces as featured on the TODAY Show and in Lucky magazine. <a href="http://www.vagardenweek.org/">The Garden Club of Virginia</a> celebrates the 80th anniversary of Historic Garden Week April 20-27, 2013.  For eight days in April, more than 200 private homes and gardens are open to visitors during the peak of spring.  It's "America's Largest Open House," and you're invited. Proceeds from ticket sales go towards restoring and preserving historic gardens like the one at <a href="http://www.christchurch1735.org/">Christ Church</a> in our village of Irvington.  This 18th century architectural beauty is considered to be the best preserved Anglican parish church in Virginia, and its landscape setting is a Garden Club of Virginia restoration project. The church, garden and museum are open daily for docent-led tours. Here are some images from the gardens at the Tides Inn, now in full bloom with camellias, azaleas, redbuds and cherry blossoms, daffodils, tulips and more.  Welcome Spring!  <img src="/media/73981/picstitch.jpg" width="336" height="336" alt="Tides gardens"/>        Local Attractions The Garden Club of Virginia celebrates the 80th anniversary of <a href="http://www.vagardenweek.org/">Historic Garden Week</a>, and that means it's the peak of spring at the Tides Inn.                                                                                                                          <img src="/media/71933/tara_-_dec_2012_170x218.jpg" width="170" height="218" alt="Tara - Dec 2012" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/>                                       For the feel of a destination wedding near the Washington D.C. metro area, Tara Melvin of event planning company "Perfect Planning" recommends the Tides Inn as a "magnificent location" in her recent <a href="http://perfectplanningbytara-blog.com/">blog</a>.  The quiet town of Irvington takes you back in time, and the resort offers myriad activities along with "phenomenal food," "luxurious Vista suites" with "top-of-the-line beds," and a tranquil, pampering spa. Weddings and other special events can be set up in several locations at the resort, including the croquet lawn, golf course, beach, and rooms with water views. Which would suit your personality? For an enjoyable weekend retreat, wedding, special event, family reunion, or girls getaway, plan for the Tides Inn!      <img src="/media/71902/ceremony_on_croquet_lawn_268x184.jpg" width="268" height="184" alt="Ceremony On Croquet Lawn" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Weddings & Social For the feel of a destination wedding near the Washington D.C. metro area, read why this event planner recommends the Tides Inn.  Our resident wedding expert Carole Konrad recently returned from January bridal shows in Virginia and spotted these themes and trends that translate well to Tides Inn brides...   <img src="/media/71668/beach_kiss.jpg" width="448" height="336" alt="Beach Kiss"/>   Fun & Playful No matter the budget, couples are looking for ways to incorporate more fun into the traditional ceremony and reception, like bringing their well-behaved pets into the bridal party.  Tides couples exchange vows on the green lawn, then toast with Lancaster Lemonades over a game of croquet.  A portable photo booth is a fun way to capture memories, especially when guests can don a bit of costume for their portrait, like zany vintage hats and boas.  Or, pose on our Tides fleet of bicycles or toss the bouquet and make the getaway from a yacht in the marina. Other wedding weekend fun activities include bon fires, make-your-own s'mores, and late-night barbecues on the beach with sparklers.   Back to Nature Country weddings  are on the rise, with a background of lush, green countryside and lots of colorful flowers.  Local farms, barns and vineyards are popular venues, adorned with natural, outdoorsy details like whitewashed picnic tables and antique garden furniture.   Our Tides brides can march down a green lawn towards an aquatic vista of sparkling water and bobbing sailboats. Another popular waterfront site for a ceremony is under the soaring fir tree, laced with a string of colorful paper lanterns.  We call it the Family Tree.   Localized Bounty Be it sustainable farming, responsible aqua-culture or craft beers and local wine, today's wedding menus are all about what is fresh and local.  The Tides is ideally situated in rich farming country, bordered by the Rappahannock River and Chesapeake Bay, to offer an authentic Virginia farm-to-fork menu.  Rappahannock oyster roasts, Virginia wine tastings and more can be incorporated into the wedding feast.   Bridal Style Despite the fun vibe, brides are still opting for a formal white dress, often with bling bouquets that sparkle with crystals and jewels. Bright colors reign, like hot pink and orange; turquoise and teal are popular, and emerald green too.  Vintage is all the rage this year--think antique jewelry, long strands of pearls, turquoise and tourmaline, feathers and veils and hair adornments--inspired by period pieces like "Downton Abbey" and the remake of "The Great Gatsby." Ultimately, it is your wedding, so be sure to personalize it with your individual style! Weddings & Social Our resident wedding expert, Carole Konrad, recently returned from January bridal shows in Virginia and spotted these themes and trends that translate well to Tides Inn brides...   Our new Ginger Wild Cypress Tides Inn Collection debuts with four bath products:  shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion.  Made exclusively for our Virginia resort with all-natural  and naturally-derived ingredients,  these products are mildly scented with the pure essential oils of three key botanicals found in the region: ginger, rosemary and cypress. Not only do they smell good, they're also good for your body, turning the art of bathing into an aromatherapy experience.  <img src="/media/68632/tides_bath_collection.jpg" width="237" height="147" alt="Ginger Wild Cypress"/>   Rosemary, an herb typically found here on the coast -warms and eases muscles and joints - encourages the removal of toxins from the body -has a strengthening and toning effect on the vascular tissue Ginger grows wild in Viginia's forests - soothes muscular and rheumatic aches and pains - increases circulation - boosts immune response Cypress, a native of Virginia woodlands - relieves muscular cramps -helps reduce stress -acts as an immune stimulant Additionally, the shampoo contains chamomile and lavender for shiny hair, the conditioner has pure green tea extract to enhance scalp health, and the body lotion has sesame oil and aloe to nourish skin. These new bathing products are placed in every guest room, but if you can't wait for your next visit, you may purchase them through our boutique.  Perfect for road warriors, they are travel-friendly  in 2-ounce bottles, $2 each.  Email us your order at <a href="mailto:shops@tidesinn.com">shops@tidesinn.com</a>   Relax and Spaaaah Our new Ginger Wild Cypress Tides Inn Collection debuts with four aromatic bath products: shampoo conditioner, body wash and body lotion. New Resort Bath Collection Features Virginia Botanicals <img src="/media/59376/gordon-slatford-general-manager.jpg" width="170" height="237" alt="Gordon Slatford General Manager" style="float: right;"/> Did you know that Virginia ranks among the fifth largest wine-producing states in the U.S.?  Virginians have long identified themselves with the vine. Grape and wine production is part of their collective cultural identity and heritage.  Two hundred and fifty years ago Charles Carter, born on Carter Creek, established the very first winery in America and 2012 marks this significant milestone for Virginia and its growing wine industry. On February 3, 2012, two hundred and fifty years later, the General Assembly of Virginia unanimously voted on a joint resolution commending the Virginia Wine Industry on its 250th Anniversary and recognized the significance of the gold medal awarded to Charles Carter in 1762 as the genesis and foundation for the success of wine in America. Today, what was once a dream of a few Founding Fathers has now become a reality for all to enjoy.  On May 26th, 2012, the state of Virginia expressed its appreciation of the Virginia Wine Industry's historic contributions to the Commonwealth's economy and heritage and, Philip Carter Winery hosted a 250th Anniversary of American  Wine event to signify the 12 bottles of Carter wine sent to the Royal Society of the Arts, UK in the spring of  1762.   And, October has become an eagerly awaited annual highlight as Virginia's wine production ranks fifth in the U.S. You too can enjoy tours and tastings at any of the state's 140 wineries.  Embark on the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail for a day filled with vineyards and the breathtaking scenery of Virginia's Northern Neck.  Awaiting discovery by your taste buds are such Chesapeake Bay varietals as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Pinot Grigio, Seyval Blanc, Syrah, and Vidal Blanc.  A few of the local vintages are even hitting the award scene and gaining international recognition. Order up the Tides Inn's famous "Taste of the Northern Neck" picnic-for-two basket to take along for exploring the charming small towns that date to Colonial times, local museums and nearby vineyards including Athena, Belle Mount Vineyards, the Dog and Oyster, and Ingleside Vineyards -- built in 1834, with more than 50 acres of gently rolling countryside. Many wineries call this area home - and they await your discovery. Virginia Food & Drink,Local Attractions Did you know that Virginia ranks among the fifth largest wine-producing states in the U.S.?  Virginians have long identified themselves with the vine. Virginia Wine Industry|Charles Carter|Philip Carter Winery |Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail Virgina Wine Industry, Charles Carter, Philip Carter Winery, Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, Virginia's Northern Neck,Chesapeake Bay varietals, The Tides Inn "taste of the northern neck",Athena, Belle Mount Vineyards, Ingleside Vineyards Embark on the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. Enjoy vineyards and the breathtaking scenery of Virginia's Northern Neck. Order up the Tides Inn's famous "Taste of the Northern Neck" picnic-for-two basket. <img src="/media/59386/mary-waldam-director-of-spa-_-retail.jpg" width="170" height="237" alt="Mary Waldam Director of Spa & Retail" style="float: right;"/>Most of us are busy multitasking, juggling many balls, and impacting our health in potentially stressful ways. Before you can truly relax and reap the full benefits of the Journey Spa® experience at The Tides Inn, it's necessary to disconnect from all the technological devices demanding your attention from morning to night. First, consider what you want out of your spa visit.  Some spa-goers aim to improve health, others hope to unwind and manage stress, and many simply want to get pampered.  So before you book an appointment, do your research and obtain as much information as possible pertaining to your upcoming spa visit.  Check out the spa menu, prepare a list of questions and schedule time to speak to a spa coordinator.  If you've never been to a spa or have limited experience don't be shy - let us know.  Our coordinators are here to assist you in planning the perfect spa experience.  A few things to keep in mind- <ol> <li>When calling to book your room reservation, ask to be transferred to the Journey Spa® to book your spa appointment. It can be quite disappointing to arrive, get settled in your room and decide you'd like a spa treatment only to find out there is no availability during your stay.</li> <li>If you have health issues or medication concerns check with your medical professional before booking.</li> <li>If you have a preference for a male or female therapist you should make that known when booking your appointment.</li> <li>For enhanced relaxation, we suggest that you arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled treatment.  This will allow you to change into your robe and slippers, relax in the sitting area and enjoy a cup of our signature tea.  Arriving late may shorten the time for your treatment as treatments end on time to accommodate the next guest.</li> <li>For the comfort of our guests, we request cell phones or other electronic devices be turned off and are asked to please refrain from loud talking while visiting the spa.</li> <li>At all times during your treatment the body is fully draped, except for the area being worked on. </li> <li>At any time during your service you experience discomfort, please alert your therapist immediately.</li> <li>Gratuities are not included in the cost of your treatment nor do we automatically add to your ticket. This is entirely up to you.  It is however, customary to leave a 15% to 20% gratuity.</li> <li>Cancellation Policy - if you must reschedule or cancel your appointment, please notify us 24 hours prior to scheduled appointment to avoid being charged. </li> </ol> It is important to keep in mind that everyone's experience in the spa will be different. Each therapist has a different touch and each client has different needs.  So even if two people have the same treatment the experience will vary slightly. The goal of your spa experience is to feel better leaving the spa than you did upon arrival.  We want you to leave satisfied and looking forward to your next treatment.  Relax and Spaaaah Most of us are busy multitasking, juggling many balls, and impacting our health in potentially stressful ways.   Before you can truly relax and reap the full benefits of the Journey Spa® experience at The Tides Inn, it's necessary to disconnect from all the technological devices demanding your attention from morning to night. Chesapeake Bay Spa|Virgina Day Spas|The Tides Inn Spa| <img src="/media/59386/mary-waldam-director-of-spa-_-retail.jpg" width="170" height="237" alt="Mary Waldam Director of Spa & Retail" style="float: right;"/>The Spa at the Tides Inn, one of Chesapeake Bay and Virginia's leading resort spas, is proud to offer the luxurious OSEA skin and body care collection. OSEA skin and body care products restore skin to its highest level of health and appearance with organic, marine-based, technically advanced formulations that bring together the abundant vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids derived from earth and sea.  OSEA mixes all of its rich cleansers and moisturizers with sustainably harvested, 100 percent-natural sea algae to provide a naturally rich source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants that help stimulate and improve blood and lymph circulation as well as revitalize and firm skin.  The Chesapeake Bay Spa is committed to providing guests with luxury products founded on purity, quality and effectiveness.   Now you can experience the amazing restorative powers of seaweed without having to travel too far. The Spa at the Tides Inn offers two signature treatments using OSEA skin and facial care products, The Tides of Change Body Treatment and Tides of Change Facial. Relax and Spaaaah The Spa at the Tides Inn, one of Chesapeake Bay and Virginia's leading resort spas, is proud to offer the luxurious OSEA skin and body care collection.     <img src="/media/59401/stormy-pearson-marina-director.jpg" width="170" height="237" alt="Stormy Pearson Marina Director" style="float: right;"/>Thinking back to the simpler times, or so they say, the journey to the new world began via the water. The vast reaches of the Chesapeake Bay were first explored centuries ago using the winds and the tides aboard whatever craft available. Years later the primary method of securing goods as well as transportation to "the city" was aboard paddle wheelers or steam ships. In most water towns, near the tips of the peninsulas, were steam boat landings. The "Lancaster" made its way into Carter Creek many times; dropping off supplies, picking up consumer goods and also carrying locals to see relatives in the cities along the bay. And what a great way to see the world it was, and still is.  Steaming up the bay toward Baltimore, stopping off at other landings to make a full load, nothing compares to the views and perspective of exploring from the water. Even today, one of the most picturesque ways to take in the scenery, wildlife, and gorgeous homes along Carter Creek is by boat.  The cove cruises present The Tides Inn and area in a whole new light.  You feel the breeze, hear and see birds as they fly over, notice the splash of a fish near the boat and discover nature that flourishes in the Northern Neck region.  You will be privy to views of homes only available by water, hear the stories of our experienced Captains relaying the history of The Tides Inn and the rich heritage of Carter Cree all providing a whole new perspective to the resort experience.  Marina Matters Thinking back to the simpler times, or so they say, the journey to the new world began via the water.  The vast reaches of the Chesapeake Bay were first explored centuries ago using the winds and the tides aboard whatever craft available. Years later the primary method of securing goods as well as transportation to "the city" was aboard paddle wheelers or steam ships. <img src="/media/59391/rich-ford-pga-head-golf-professional.jpg" width="170" height="237" alt="Rich Ford PGA Head Golf Professional" style="float: right;"/>For most average golfers more thought is put into the full swing and less focus is given to the short game. It doesn't take much effort for the average golfer to advance the ball down the fairway, and usually a fair distance, but when it comes to a six foot putt things just seem to come unhinged. And at that distance it can take as many as three strokes to get the ball in the hole. I refer to the above as average golfers but in truth professional golfers have a difficulty making six foot putt putts at times too, and I am no exception. Some years ago, when my older brother convinced me to join in the golf business as an apprentice golf professional, I had a tough time with the short putts and truth be known they frightened the heck out of me.  Never knowing when I stepped up to putt what was going to happen- five feet short or five feet long.  But, thank goodness for older brothers.  He showed me a drill that I still use today that helps me with those dreaded six foot and under putts.  I dubbed it the Star Drill because of the legs that are in the drill which will become apparent later on. The drill begins with five of your favorite golf balls and two tees.  Place the first tee in the ground about one foot from the hole on the putting green and the next tee in the ground about two feet away. The goal of this drill is to build your confidence in making the short putts with greater frequency.   Begin at the first tee with the five balls -putting each ball into the cup, once made, move back to the next tee and repeat the drill. When you have made all five without missing from the second tee move the tee out another foot, and continue doing so until you have reached six feet and can make all five balls at that distance.  Sounds easy enough but, the bigger "kicker" is if at any point on the first leg or any leg you miss a putt you must stop and go back to the start and begin again. That means the VERY beginning not just that leg of the star. Completion of this drill is done when you have made 150 consecutive putts in a row without missing any. That means you made everything on each leg of the five legs. This will boost your confidence and start to make you a better putter.  Good luck and stay with it!!!! From the Tee Box For most average golfers more thought is put into the full swing and less focus is given to the short game. It doesn't take much effort for the average golfer to advance the ball down the fairway, and usually a fair distance, but when it comes to a six foot putt things just seem to come unhinged.  And at that distance it can take as many as three strokes to get the ball in the hole.  I refer to the above as average golfers but in truth professional golfers have a difficulty making six foot putt putts at times too, and I am no exception.