WitH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS 🫶

by Wendy Yang Clark

We are OPEN and ready for you!

PHEW. We did it. Grab your life jackets and a bottle of champagne, because we've officially set sail – The Pearl is open for business! It's been quite the journey to get here. Here’s how we navigated the sometimes turbulent waters of opening a small brick-and-mortar start-up and emerged victorious on the shores of City Island.

Two weeks ago, when we probably should have been choosing the perfect spot to place the orchid in an already complete studio, we were still covered in paint and sawdust, way behind schedule as I barked orders (nicely) at my friends, staff, and family, plaster globs in my hair.

On the way to opening The Pearl, there's been no shortage of challenges, but what's been truly remarkable is the overwhelming support and assistance that's come in from every corner of my life. From the spark of an idea during last year’s film strike to the crazy energy of our recent grand opening, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the incredible contributions of friends, family, and the City Island community.

I’ve spent most of my working life designing costumes for film, television, and theatre. These art forms are a testament to the power of collaboration, where every member of the team plays a crucial role in bringing a shared vision to life. With all of the elements that come together to make a movie, it’s a miracle that anything ever makes it to the screen. It’s an exhilarating process where creativity thrives amidst the collective effort of talented individuals pooling their skills and expertise. This spirit of teamwork is what I cherish most about making movies – the camaraderie, the shared passion, and the sense of accomplishment when a project comes together. These same principles were true in creating The Pearl, where I had the opportunity to harness the collaborative energy I love and apply it to starting a business. Just like in filmmaking, the journey of transforming an idea into reality became an immensely rewarding experience, filled with the joy of collective achievement.

During the double strike of SAG Actors and Writers’ Guild writers last year, a seed of inspiration took root in my very unemployed mind - a vision for a beautiful sanctuary of movement and community, right here on City Island. The idea began to take shape, evolving from a little itch in my brain into a tangible, fleshed-out concept.

Less than a year ago, I sat with my dear friend and fellow costume designer Laaleh, amidst the blooms in a combo flower shop/coffee shop in her Manhattan neighborhood. Over matcha lattes and surrounded by fragrant blossoms, I shared my vision and asked if a "Pilates Grotto” was a dumb idea. Laaleh's eyes lit up with excitement as we discussed the possibilities, her enthusiasm fueling my own determination to bring the idea to life. Laa was one of many friends I employed in my Potential-yoga-studio brain trust. Costume Department friends Lucy, Amy, and Ramona all came to City Island to tour the space with me, sussing out the vibes of the old antique store, space planning, and theorizing about client experience.

How many fitness instructors does it take to put together a Cadillac? 🤔

Ron Turner, the photographer and owner of Focal Point Gallery next door, played a pivotal role in bringing The Pearl to fruition. With almost fifty years of business ownership on City Island, Ron's advice and guidance have been invaluable. Ron generously dispensed wisdom and his measuring tape and level every time I asked. It was Ron who first introduced me to Brenda, the building owner, and helped me secure the perfect space for our studio.

Brenda has been a generous and supportive proprietor of the building. Her enthusiasm for our vision and her willingness to collaborate have been instrumental in transforming the space into the airy, welcoming haven that is now The Pearl. Her contributions, both in terms of physical improvements and unwavering support, have been incredible.

Every dream needs champions, and for me, those roles fell largely to Ben and Emma, two dear friends whose unwavering support and boundless creativity have been an awesome asset to the team. Emma, a beacon of encouragement and positivity, has always offered a shoulder to lean on, the social media prowess of someone younger and cooler than me, and the willingness to answer opinion-related texts (which color t-shirt is cuter? What font do you like?) at all hours. Ben, always in his rubber galoshes, armed with a myriad of talents and a can-do attitude, lent his expertise to every aspect of the project, from wiring all of the lighting on our funky mirrors and shelving to teaching me the intimidating art of fiberglass.

Kennet, our contractor, brought a level of craftsmanship and dedication to The Pearl that exceeded expectations. He and his team transformed the space into a sanctuary of movement and tranquility. Despite my weird ideas and whims, Kennet approached each challenge with professionalism and grace, and his shudder was *almost* imperceptible when I added a rough plaster texture to his meticulously smoothed, perfect drywall.

The day that Kennet could stand inside of the bathroom floor…

Dan and Reina, the dynamic duo behind 239 Play/Dan’s Parents’ House, not only have provided us with countless grab bags full of tiny vintage toys for our kids to leave all over the house but also invaluable advice and guidance. Their experience as business owners on the island offered insights that helped steer us through some of the challenges of entrepreneurship.

TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK... because you can only read so much!