By Randi Ball
As a lifelong New Yorker and a mom, I never imagined a place where I could slow down without giving up the rhythm and energy I love. But that’s exactly what I found in The Hamptons. What started as summer weekends eventually turned into a full-time move, and raising my children here has brought balance, beauty, and an unexpected sense of ease to our lives.
Finding Harmony Between Hustle and Hamptons
I still carry that New York hustle—strong coffee, tight schedules, big goals—but here, I’ve learned to move through it with more grace. My days are packed—real estate deals, school runs, client calls—but there’s something about doing it all under a watercolor sky with the sound of the ocean never far off that shifts your whole mindset.
At The Agency Hamptons, where I’m proud to be a real estate agent, we often say this is more than just a place—it’s a lifestyle. And for families, it’s one that hits all the right notes.
A Mom’s Guide to Local Favorites
- Amber Waves Farm (Amagansett): It’s where I go for fresh produce, flowers, and that magical feeling of slowing down. The kids love the farm animals, and I love the sense of community that’s grown around this beautiful spot.
- Shabbat on the Beach with The Jewish Center of the Hamptons: There’s something incredibly grounding about gathering on the sand at sunset to welcome Shabbat with song, tradition, and connection. It’s one of our family’s favorite summertime rituals.
- The Parrish Art Museum (Water Mill): Whether it’s a rainy day activity or a creative outing, the Parrish offers a dose of culture that feeds both the kids’ curiosity and my soul.
- Nick & Toni’s (East Hampton): A true Hamptons institution. It’s perfect for date night or a chic family dinner. Their wood-fired pizza is a favorite with my crew.
- Duryea’s (Orient Point): Worth the drive (or boat ride) every time. Sitting by the water with a glass of rosé and a seafood tower feels like a little escape without ever leaving the East End.
- Ona House (Amagansett): This space is my sanctuary—a beautifully restored 1960’s modern home featuring only female artists on display. it’s one of those rare places that just feels good.
Why The Hamptons Feels Like Home
Raising kids here means watching them grow up in nature, with a sense of freedom that’s increasingly rare. It means spontaneous beach hangs after school, knowing your neighbors, and having cultural gems like the Parrish Museum right down the road. It’s community, beauty, and opportunity all wrapped into one.
And yes, we’re lucky. But we’re also intentional. We choose to build a life where wellness, family, and purpose are the priorities—not just the Pinterest board version, but the real, sandy-feet, farmers-market, tight-knit-community version.
Randi Ball is a trusted real estate agent and Managing Director at The Agency Hamptons, known for her strategic mindset, clear communication, and deep understanding of what makes East End living so special.