What is your connection to Long Island ? Hamptons?
My connection with Long Island began with my husband , as he has grown up up here.
How long have you been coming out east?
We just continued living here in the North Shore after our marriage ,and its been home for me since the last 28 years now.
What is your favorite thing about the Hamptons?
You can’t be living in LI and not be going out East in the summer to enjoy the beautiful vineyards ,quaint main streets ,the hideaways of scenic al fresco dining places! My favorite thing about the Hamptons is that its close enough to have a Daycation several times over the year without sitting in a plane or driving more than 2 hours!
Be it a Family outing to the beach, or a girls day out, or driving out when my family visits from overseas….there’s something to do for every age group I feel! I have two kids (who are young adults now). They used to love going to the Fall fairs and apple picking out East when they were younger and now its for the vineyards and water sports.
What do you do for a living?
I design an exclusive range of Pashmina Shawls which are very well suited for the Hamptons relaxed-chic look!
I personally carry a neutral shawl (its more like a light wrap) with me at all times, it comes in handy for those Spring evenings when you’re dining outdoors or in Fall, when the weather just begins to change along with the colors of the leaves!
How did that come about?
People used to come up to me and ask me where I bought my scarves from , so I started making a small range in a luxurious pashmina fabric in hand painted motifs and embroideries, which reflected my Indian heritage, coupled with the American sensibility. Thus began @ “Shawls by Sonika”a few years ago.
I sell mainly through pop ups & fundraisers and causes close to my heart and lot through word of mouth. Its so much fun to be with women of all ages and see them drape and wear one of my Shawls. Since they are one of a kind, its an easy accessory for the urban ,well travelled woman who likes to make her own unique Style statement!