A Cape Ann Holiday Favorite Coming Saturday

The holidays are very special time at the Blue Shutters and across Cape Ann – and this Saturday is one of our favorite events – the annual Christmas pagent in Rockport. It all starts at 5pm at Dock Square. We’ll warn you now…this will definitely get you into the holiday spirit! And if you’re looking for a place to stay, we’d love to see you at the Shutters. Call or email us for details.

Remembering Summer 2008 -- Comments from our Guest Book

Here are more comments from the guest book in our main room. In the past two newsletters, we covered all of 2007 and the first half of 2008. Now we're up to July 2008:

"Your hospitality was amazing. This was the perfect mom and dad getaway." Julie & Brad

"The Blue Shutters magic does it again!" Tom

"Just like being home, only better. Thank you for the 'Perfect Visit'." Carol and Pat

"You made us feel right at home...we felt like the beach was ours." Joe & Rosemarie

"Our son's wedding was made all the more special by the warm hospitality we received here." Mary & Dennis

"Just another day in paradise! You have the most beautiful place in the most beautiful area. You are truly blessed and have been a blessing to us." Wayne, Kim, Jordan, Eric & Kaylee

"Your charm shines through in the awesome atmosphere here at the Blue Shutters. We've had such a special time making memories to be cherished a lifetime." Madeline, Suz, Brian & Monica

"My first time in Gloucester...so happy we stayed here!" Milee

"Best place to stay in Gloucester with the best views and beach."
Brenda & Matt

"Thank you so much for the work you've done to make the Blue Shutters as good as it was years ago." Paul, Liz & Sarah

"Thank you for this place...it's magical!" Joe, Sue, Anthony & Matthew

Remember...you can leave us comments anytime in this "Online Diary". Just click on "comments" at the bottom of this or any diary posting to add your thoughts.

Most Guest Book Comments -- Notes from Early 2008

We're continuing to share notes from the guest book in our main room. Having already covered comments from 2007 (our first years as innkeepers) in early diary posts, here are some guest notes from the first half of 2008 -- a busy and fun time at the Blue Shutters:

"Thanks for the terrific beachside hospitality...loved being with you from Colorado, California, Virginia, Australia and Pennsylvania."

"Great time! Great company! Great conversation!"

"Blue Shutters is the best!"

"A very beautiful and peaceful place to stay."

"Thanks for a hospitable and lovely stay."

"We loved everything -- perfect!"

"Gotta love this place! Can't wait to come back with friends and family. Warm and welcoming."

"Great time -- went by too fast!"

Remember...you can leave us comments in our guest book, or right here on our website "BeachBlog" diary.

Halloween Fun at the Blue Shutters

Halloween is a favorite time of year around the Blue Shutters. Last week we dressed up for a Murder Mystery night (thanks to friends near and far for joining in the fun -- and especially to Michelle for organizing this). And this Saturday (10/24) we're celebrating Halloween by offering a 25% discount to guests who get into the spirit of the holiday (anything from a full costume to a funny hat will do). Other parts of Cape Ann and nearby Salem (the Halloween capital of the world) are on board as well. For example, if you have't checked out "Castle of the Damned" you should try to do so this week (and what better place to rest up after all that excitement than the Blue Shutters). Nearby Hammond Castle will host this most unique Halloween attraction on October 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and November 1 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays). Admission is $15 and parking is available at Stage Fort Park with a free "Shudder Shuttle" to carry visitors to the castle. You'll find details on this and oter Halloween events on the Cape Ann Vacations website and on Salem's Halloween Happenings site. Hope you can join us for some happy hauntings!

More Comments From Our Guest Book

Two of the Blue Shutters crew just returned from California, where we stayed in a B&B in Mendocino (like the Shutters in Gloucester, this B&B is located on a beautiful stretch of ocean). We spent time with the innkeepers at the Sea Gull Inn, who urged us to add a note or two to their guest book -- and that got us thinking...it's been awhile since we last passing along comments from the guest book in the main room. We began posting these notes on our website in an earlier diary entry (which you'll find below) with comments from the sumer of 2007.

We're continuing this here, with some guest notes from the later half of 2007:

"It was fun being introduced to the area and sharing the comfort of the inn -- it was very cozy."
"This is incredibly quaint and the owners made us feel like old friends."
"The view was awesome and we felt like we were home in our place."
"Beautiful location! Wonderful anniversary weekend."
"Fantastic views, great conversation, beautiful beach."
"Everything was perfect."


Remember...you can leave us comments anytime on our website -- right here in the diary. Just click on "comments" at the borrom of any diary posting to add your thoughts.

New Facebook Photos

Check out the Shutters Facebook page for some new photos -- by friends Mary, Sue and Suzi. Please share any photos you have here -- maybe they'll make it on to our website photo album.

Had a Blast with Blues & Brews

We pulled off another Blues & Brews, and while the "brews" were the same (thanks to TJ and the Cape Ann Brewing Co.) the "blues" took on a new form. Eddie joined Annmarie's brother Arthur for an acoustic set by the firepit. Their tunes were great -- as the many friends who joined us can attest. Thanks to all those who stopped by. We look forward to seeing you at our next shindig.

Celebrity Weekend at the Blue Shutters

We had celebrities of all kinds this weekend -- a former TV news personality, the brother of a professional baseball player and a group of early Peace Corps volunteers, who were here to participate in the 48th anniversary of their participation in the program. These Peace Corps alum -- who were part of the first group of volunteers back in 1961 -- shared many stories of their work and insights into the history of the Peace Corps. One member of the group reached yet another kind of celebrity status -- you might recall the scene from the movie Forrest Gump, when the title character meets President Kennedy. The director was praised for his ability to insert Forrest into old film -- and that was the case in this scene as the President greets a long line of White House visitors. Gump's image was superimposed over one of the real-life visitors -- who just happened to be one of our Peace Corps guests. It the first time we know of that the Shutters has welcomed a movie star -- even if you never saw her on screen.

Join Us for Some Great Fall Events

If you believe the fun around Good Harbor Beach is over now that Labor Day has come, think again -- September (and October) can bring some great beach days. And that's not all...we've put plans in place for some special fall weekend packages that will take us right up to Christmas. Here's what's in store:

BLUES & BREWS SUMMER ENCORE on SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26
Enjoy final days of summer along with free beer tastings and live music on our front lawn. Make it a weekend getaway -- book a room Saturday and get Friday night at half-price.

MURDER MYSTERY NIGHT on SATURDAY OCTOBER 17
Join us for our first-ever Murder Mystery Night and play detective with other guests and enjoy some special refreshments. Make it a weekend getaway -- book a room Saturday and get Friday night at half-price.

HAUNTED HALLOWEEN on SATURDAY OCTOBER 24
Get into the Halloween spirit with a costume contest, trips to Gloucester’s haunted castle and a visit to nearby Salem, where you’ll find of a full schedule of spooky events. Get dressed for the holiday and get 25 percent off your bill for the weekend – and you’ll be in the running for free night at the Shutters, awarded to the guest with the best costume.

AUTUMN WINE AND FOOD TASTING on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21
The Blue Shutters’ popular wine and food tasting events are back, and for the first time we’re celebrating autumn. Our chef and wine expert will be back with a new selection of wines and a specially-designed food tasting menu. Make it a weekend getaway -- book a room Saturday and get Friday night at half-price.

HOLIDAY TREE TRIMMING NIGHT on SATURDAY DECEMBER 5
Celebrate the holidays Shutters-style as we kick off the season with a tree-trimming party complete with holiday treats. Bring an ornament for our tree and get a 25% discount on your bill for the weekend.

We hope you can come visit -- for one of these weekend specials, or another stay at the Blue Shutters and Good Harbor Beach.

A Special Message about a Special Family Get-Together

Earlier this summer, the Blue Shutters was the setting for a very fun group that chose our inn for their family get-together. There were six couples, plus kids...19 in all (not counting the one child on the way). Rick and Kathleen Zipper headed up this crew, which came from all over the US. We just received a beautiful framed photo from them (now displayed in our main room), with a note titled "At the Blue Shutters Inn". We'll be sharing comments from our guests every so often -- we just had to pass this one along:
From Oregon, Carolina and from Michigan
We came for a week at the Blue Shutters Inn.
For us it was our family get-together,
On the beach, with the ocean, and great summer weather.
The weather surprised, with some storms, wind and rain,
But we all made the best, suffering little pain.
So how did we manage to be unaffected?
It was feeling at home, with no strangeness detected.
Things special at breakfast, and the lobster boil,
Your team made it easy, Ed always at toil.
With Tony so helpful, always thinking PR
And Patty and Annmarie, grocery shopping by car,
You all met our needs, and allowed us to roam,
From Boston to Rockport, and always come home.

We'd like to thank all the families -- for the photo and for this great note.

New Blue Shutters Cartoon....

If you haven't checked out JibJab, you gotta do it -- some very funny online cartoons and e-cards. We just created a cartoon, and we wanted to share it with all of our friends. It may remind you of the Shutters, given the nautical theme. In some definite typecasting, this video stars Patty as a gun-toting cop, Tony as the super-smart marine scientist and Eddie as the grizzled fisherman. If it sounds like one of your favorite movies, that's intentional. Click here to see this high-seas cartoon creation. This isn't the first of these online cartoons. If you like this, check out our holiday cartoon, where Annmarie and Gizmo join in the fun.

Your Thoughts on the Shutters -- Notes from Our Guest Book

In the 2-plus years we've owned the Blue Shutters we've gotten many great comments from those of you who have stayed with us -- and most of these are found in our guest book in the main room. We thought we'd use our online diary to share some of these notes -- maybe you'll recognize your comments. Here are the first of these guest notes -- from summer of 2007, our first season as innkeepers:
"Great place. Great improvements. Good people."
"Never better."
"Yahoo! Great time!"
"So relaxing. I'll be back."
"Definitely a keeper on our getaway list."
"We had a blast! The rooms and breakfast were wonderful."
"Your friendliness and genuine hospitality will bring us back again."
"The Nautilus room clearly has a spectacular view. Love the sunrises."
"We were so glad we landed here and to meet y'all. It's a super, super place."
"Sunrise to sunset this has been a very special stay with many wonderful memories -- and laughs."

We'll have another post shortly, with comments from fall 2007. Let us know what you think (you can always leave a note online -- just click on "comments" and add your thoughts).

The Brews are Flowing at Cape Ann (and soon at the Shutters)

Our friends at the Cape Ann Brewing Company sent out an update on the brews currently being poured at their place in downtown Gloucester. If you haven't been there to check it out, you're missing a real treat. Here is what's currently on tap (fyi -- I've tried them all and they're great): Fisherman's Brew - Amber Lager; Fisherman's Eclipse - Scwarzbier; Fisherman's Bavarian Wheat - Hefeweizen; Fisherman's Dunkelweiss; Fisherman's Tea Party (a Barley-Wine made with 3 types of tea); and Fisherman's Pumpkin Stout.

These folks will be back at the Shutters this fall for our third Brews & Blues. Stay tuned for more details on this -- or call us to reserve your spot.

Adam Sandler -- Another Gloucester Fan

Adam Sandler and his movie star buddies were here this summer filming Grown Ups, and while one actress (andi poland) who was a guest at the Shutters and another actor (Jonathan Loughran) who we ran into at dinner, the big celebrity sights never happened. But there's still a chance. According to the Boston Globe, Sandler has made an offer on the place he rented out on Eastern Point. The Globe goes on to talk about some of his favorite places in town -- the Y, Long Beach Dairy Maide (just down the street from the Shutters), Dragon Light and Frank's SubZone. Maybe he'll add the Blue Shutters to the list next time around.

Old Friends are Back Again...Having More Fun Every Year

One of the benefits of innkeeping is making new friends -- and continuing those friendships from year to year. The past few weeks have provided many examples of this -- there were friends who returned from Ohio, NJ, Pennsylvania and western Mass. And in every case, there were more in their groups -- and more days a the Shutters than past years. Just yesterday, we said goodbye to our "girl scout jamboree" and Dave and his family -- between the two groups, they took up nearly every room at the Shutters. And best of all, every one of these folks have signed up for next year. We're already counting down the days.

Sea Glass Hunting on Gloucester Beaches

There's no end to the beach activities friends of the Blue Shutters find to fill their days here, and some are pretty obvious (sunny on the sand, body surfing, walks along the shore, kayaking). But here's one you may not have thought of: searching for sea glass that can be used to make jewelry. That's what Betty Hamilton does when she's here. You can see her work in an album at the Shutters, or online at her Mermaid's Tears website. And you can read about her in the news; her local NJ newspaper just did feature on Betty's work -- and mentioned her sea glass hunting in Glouceser.

Food, Farmers and Fishing History

We've had a few rainy days this summer -- fortunately, fewer in recent weeks -- and when the beach isn't an option folks always find fun activities. One couple had this suggestion -- check out the Farmer's Market (every Thursday on the Harbor Loop) and the Maritime Heritage Museum. They did both yesterday when the clouds rolled in and had a great time. They also caught the "Seafood Throwdown" at the Market, where local chefs competed with their best dishes. There are two more of these events schedule -- on September 19 and October 8. Mark your calendars!

Connecting on Cape Ann -- Web Links to our Friends

We recently added a new feature to the Blue Shutters website -- a page of web links to our friends around Cape Ann. You'll find things to see and do "on the water", "on the shore" and "on the town". If there are any places you think we should add, let us know -- and if you want to link to our website, please do. Enjoy!

Check out the Blue Shutters Photo Album

If you haven't seen the latest additions to our website photo album, you owe it to yourself to take a few minutes to check it out. There are photos from quests (the sandcastle shot was taken by Ann Marie's cousin Susan), from special events (one of our wedding parties, the wine and food tasting and the spring Brews & Blues), and new pictures of spots around the Shutters. There are also some new photos on the "Our Rooms" page. Enjoy!

Lights, Camera....Gloucester

One of the reasons for the resurgence of Gloucester as a tourist destination is the movie (and the book) the Perfect Storm. In recent years, Cape Ann has been the setting for many other movies, most recently the Sandra Bullock film, The Proposal(I haven't seen it, but others report that there is a scene with the famous Rockport Motif #1 -- with a snow-capped Alaskan mountain digitally added to the background. The current buzz is the Adam Sandler movie, Grown Ups. Sandler appeared on the Conan O'Brien show tonight and mentioned the movie -- and Gloucester. The former Saturday Night Live star is trotting out a bunch of buddies for this movie, and actors are being spied all over the area -- including Chris Rock buying green tea at our local Stop and Shop, and Salma Hayek enjoying the carnival at the St. Peter's Feast. We ran into one of the actors, Jonathan Loughran, at Rocky Neck's Madfish Grill, and actress Andi Poland spent the night at the Blue Shutters. The movie continues filming for awhile, so now there's even more reasons to visit the Blue Shutters -- you may run into Adam Sandler in the frozen food aisle at Shaws.

Beach, Bikes, Bands and More -- Summer is Finally Here

We're in the middle of another great weekend here at the Blue Shutters. There are guests from all over the US -- New Jersey, Michigan, Oregon, Conn., NY, the Carolinas and from just down the street in Newburyport. Last night we checked out the downtown block party -- great to see Main Street buzzing with folks eating, drinking, shopping, strolling and enjoying the live music. We heard great reports on dinner last night at the Seaport Grille, just down the road. Lots of early risers this morning -- including walkers, runners and bicyclists. We've talked about the great biking here on Cape Ann -- one of our guests is so serious about this that he shipped his bike here from Oregon. If it's the beach you're into, today's the day - maybe the beach day so far this year (you can tell by the cars lining up at the beach parking lot at 8 this morning). Looks like the summer has finally arrived -- let's hope it's here to stay. Until October at least.

A slice of Gloucester....great Portuguese cuisine and old-time fish stories

Spent the evening with some old friends last night, enjoying a great meal at the Azorean and taking in some local color at the Crow's Nest. Sam Whitmore (a native of the area)and his wife Christy (who hails from the west coast, where they now live) were here at the Shutters for the evening, part of their east to see family and do a bit of business (in my other business role -- as co-founder of the PR firm Topaz Partners -- I've been working with Sam and Christy for years). Our plans for dinner were influenced by Christy's Portugeuse heritage -- and our interest in introducing the bar "Perfect Storm" fame. The dinner was great -- I highly recommend the marinated haddock and the almond liquor as a capper. The conversation at the Crow's Nest was as entertaining as always, with locals sharing their memories of Perfect Storm movie stars and the real-life fishermen. It reminded up just how unique Gloucester is.

Spotlighting A Full Weekend of Activities on Cape Ann

This past Independence Day weekend was a great example of all that Cape Ann, Gloucester and the Blue Shutters has to offer. We had a pretty full house for most of the weekend -- and the range of activites our guests were involved with is worth noting. This included: kayaking on Gloucester Harbor, biking and jogging all over Cape Ann, surfing the waves on Good Harbor Beach, art gallery hopping, tennis at the Gloucester High School courts, enjoying the bonfire in Rockport and the parades there and in downtown Gloucester, exploring Halibut Point State Park, catching a movie at a nearby theater and bowling a few frames at our local alley (two good rainy day activities), sailing on the Thomas Lannon schooner, whale watching, enjoying dinner and/or drinks at any of our local restaurants and taverns, grilling and picnicing on our lawn, and sunbathing, body-surfing or strolling on Good Harbor Beach, or just sitting on our sofas enjoying the view. I'm sure we left something out -- we could probably fill another diary note with a list of these other activities.

Blue Shutters in the Boston Business Journal

The Blue Shutters was included in a Boston Business Journal story on tourism in NE. The point we make in this story is that the Shutters is a great destination even if you're on a tight budget or if you need to mix in a bit of work with your vacation. We go on to talk about our efforts to let folks know about the Shutters -- and that's where you come in. Please help us spread the word, whether you know of someone planning a vacation or business getaway.

It's Fiesta Time!

One of the biggest events of the year here in Gloucester is about to kick off -- the St. Peter's Feast, otherwise known in these parts as "The Fiesta". It all begins tonight and runs through this weekend, with music, parades, religious celebrations, fireworks...and plenty of food and fun. One of the highlights is the famed "greasy pole" -- which you need to see to believe. If you've enjoyed the feast in the past, you're welcome to join us again; if this is new to you, it's something you definitely should experience. You'll find all the details about this year's feast online -- and posted at the Blue Shutters, which is a great stopping off point for your Fiesta fun.

Blue Shutters on Twitter!

If you use Twitter, you'll be happy to know the Blue Shutters is now using this to let our friends know about happenings here. Please become a follwer(our Twitter name is blue_shutters). If you don't know Twitter, check it out and you can see what everyone is talking about.

Summer's Here -- Come Join Us

A few weeks ago we celebrated the coming of summer with our beach bash -- if you get our e-newsletter, you heard about this and got a look at some of the fun (if you don't get our newsletter, call or email us and we'll get you on the list). We've had some nice days since then -- but the best is yet to come. There are still some spots available this summer season, but rooms are going fast. Contact us soon if you're thinking of staying with us. The newsletter also looks ahead to some of the summer events planned here on Cape Ann. Don't miss out!

Brews & Blues on May 30 -- Back to the Beach

Last fall, dozens of friends were on hand for our first Brews & Blues and enjoyed an outdoor concert, free beer tastings and some refreshments on the lawn overlooking Good Harbor Beach. On May 30, we’ll do it all again – this time to celebrate the return of the beach season. Once again, we're teaming up with the Cape Ann Brewing Co. -– makers of the highly-acclaimed Fisherman’s Brew – and some talented musicians who’ll entertain us with a jam session on that Saturday afternoon. The Cape Ann Brewers folks will be on hand into the evening for beer tastings. You can enjoy your brew (or other beverages of your liking) in your room, in our main guest area or out by the fire pit. And all weekend you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy other activities across Cape Ann – including a personal tour of the brewery on the Gloucester waterfront. Reserve your spot soon for Brews & Blues – for Friday May 29, Saturday May 30 or both nights. We expect this will be a popular weekend here at the Blue Shutters.

A Jazzy Time on Cape Ann

Cape Ann offers a wide variety of activities and we thought we had tried them all. But we had a new experience this weekend -- jazz. Longtime friend Bill S arrived Saturday for a visit -- and an extra ticket to a performance by vocalist Kendra Shank, who was appearing in Rockport that night. Bill, who is working on a book about jazz legend Bill Pepper, not only is a Kendra fan -- he's also talking with her about his book. I joined Bill for the performance at the Rockport Art Association and was blown away by Kendra and her band -- and by the art association's exhibit. I'm not sure when Kendra will be back in these parts, but you'll find info on her and samples of her work on her website. A big thank you to Bill to opening our eyes to Kendra -- and to jazz. As for the Rockport Art Association, there's a great exhibit going on through early June -- and there will be other happenings throughout the year. Check out their website for more info.

Food and Wine Tasting -- Part II

Yesterday was another big day for the Blue Shutters, as our guests gathered for the second of our Wine and Food Tastings. Once again, Traveling Vineyard Wine Consultant Kathy Hill supplied the wines and Langham Hotel Executive Chef Mark Sapienza created a menu just for us. Here's a review of what we samples:

New England Cheeses Muscat Grapes and Baguettes
White Viognier – Maine Lobster Salad, Tarragon and Baby Russet Potato
White Rhone – Jonah Crab Cake with Grain Mustard Aioli
Argentina Malbec – White Bean, Roasted Garlic and Thyme Dip with Parmesan Crostini
California Zinfandel –Tomato and Molasses BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Italian Super Tuscan – Air Dried Beef Breseola, Parmesan. Taggiasca Olive Oil and Mediterranean Olives

We're planning other events before the summer rolls in, including our May 30 "Brews and Blues" (call us ASAP if you're interested in this -- space is going fast). Stay tuned for more details on these plans.

We'd like to thank Mark and Kathy -- and all the friends who joined us for what turned out to be another great afternoon and evening of wine, food and fun.

Fun and Affordable Spring Getaway

These days, everyone can use a break -- but we can't afford to break the bank. So if you're looking for a fun, easy and affordable spring getaway, why not spend some time at the Blue Shutters Beachside Inn.

We've had many guests visit this winter -- enjoying local restaurants and taverns, quiet walks on the beach, some refreshments by the fireplace, and rest and relaxation in one of our comfy rooms overlooking the waves crashing on Good Harbor --and with the weather warming, the Blue Shutters is even more fun.

This spring, there are lots of special events planned for the spring -- check out the Cape Ann Chamber website for an update. And while you're planning don't forget to mark your calendar for May 30 -- that's the date for the Blue Shutters Beachside Blues & Brews, featuring beer tastings and a jam session on our lawn.

There are plenty of rooms available before the summer arrives -- and for those of you in the northeast, we're just a short drive away. Call or email us and make your plans for a winter/spring getaway -- we promise, you won't be disappointed.

Something's New at the Blue Shutters

We've been very busy this winter, sprucing up the Blue Shutters for guests who will be visiting this year. You'll find new, comfy sofas in the Main Room -- which makes the view of Good Harbor Beach even more enjoyable. There is new furniture in Deckside, Captain's Quarters, Lookout, Beachside and other rooms -- and some special touches all over the house (a note to those of you who have reserved Captain's Quarters -- we've replaced the king-size bed with a new queen-size, along with a beautiful set of matching furniture). While there are these changes, some things are still the same -- including the friends and fun that will welcome you whenever you arrive.

Wine and Food Tasting Event Coming March 28

Saturday March 28 marks the return of a favorite Blue Shutters event -- our wine and food tasting. Once again, Langham Hotel Executive Chef Mark Sapienza and Traveling Vineyard Wine Consultant Kathy Hill will lead us through a special wine tasting, with a selection of red and white wines paired with a sampling menu prepared just for that evening.

We did this back in January and it was a big success. The menu that day included:
- a New England Cheese Display, with Honeycomb, Macona Almonds and Grapes
- Lobster and Vegetable Spring Rolls with Citrus Ponzu Dip, paired with a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc
- Fennel Pollen Grilled and Chilled Shrimp Brochette with Saffron Rouille, paired with a French Muscadet
- Jamon Serrano with Red Wine Poached Figs, paired with a Spanish Tempranillo
- Vermont Gorgonzola, Crimson Grape and Caramelized Onion and Rosemary Flatbread, paired with an Argentina Malbec
- Chocolate and Hazelnut Biscotti, paired with a Moscato D'Asti

Mark and Kathy will have a whole new menu for March 28 -- but it promises to be just as interesting, and tasty. It will all unfold that afternoon in our Main Room, overlooking beautiful Good Harbor Beach. There will be time to compare notes with other wine and food lovers, enjoy walks on the beach, and relax by a roaring fire before retiring to one of our uniquely decorated guest rooms. We’ll also have menus and recommendations for those interested in dining out at one of Cape Ann’s many restaurants – and a guide to some of our favorite spots for drinks, shopping and entertainment.

Call or email us to reserve a room -- for that evening or the entire weekend.

A Salute to Cape Ann Brewing

A few weeks ago, we told you about plans for our wine and food tasting, and we're happy to report that this was a big success -- so much so that we're planning to do this again in March and April. This month's big event is our Valentine's special -- taking place this weekend -- complete with champagne and chocolates. While we're on the subject of grown-up drinks, we'd like to tip our hat to our friends at the Cape Ann Brewing Co. We've long been fans of these folks and always have some of their beer available at the Blue Shutters -- and we've often visited their place in downtown Gloucester to taste their latest creations. They just got some good news: starting February 12, they'll be serving pizza and sandwiches -- as well as beer. Everyone is encouraged to check this out. Also make note that the Cape Ann Brewing Co. will be teaming up with us in May for our second "Brews & Blues" bash. This was big hit when we first did this back in October, and in May, we'll be raising a few pints -- and enjoying some live music -- as we welcome back the warm weather. Call or email for more details.

Valentine's Weekend at the Blue Shutters

It’s never too soon to start planning that romantic Valentine’s getaway – and the Blue Shutters Beachside Inn is just the place for a truly memorable experience. You’ll find it all here -- quiet walks on the beach, hot chocolate or a cocktail by the fireplace, dinner at one of our region's many great restaurants, and a glass of bubbly and some sweets in a cozy room with a spectacular view of Good Harbor. Guests who join us for this special Valentine’s weekend – for one night or two -- will be treated to complimentary champagne and chocolates and morning-after breakfast, in addition to a guide to some of our favorite spots for drinks, dining and entertainment. Call or email us and reserve your spot.

Sampling Fine Wine and Fantastic Food at the Blue Shutters

This past Saturday was a special day at the Blue Shutters as we held the first of our Wine and Food Tasting events. Nearly 20 folks gathered to sample a selection of red and white wines paired with a menu prepared just for us. We were in the expert hands of Langham Hotel Executive Chef Mark Sapienza and Traveling Vineyard Wine Consultant Kathy Hill. A big thank you to Kathy and Mark -- and to all those who joined us for the afternoon and evening. There are photos of this event on the Blue Shutters Facebook page, and we'll be including these in our upcoming e-newsletter -- at which time we'll be sharing information on our next Wine and Food Tasting event. So, if you weren't able to make it this weekend, stay tuned -- there will be other opportunities to join in the fun (if you just can't wait to sample some of Mark's creations or Kathy's wines, check out the new hot spot at the Langham Boston -- Bond or call us for Kathy's contact info). Of course, if you have any questions about this or other special events planned at the Shutters just call or email us.

Blue Shutters Birdwatching -- Jan 30 - Feb 1

None of us at the Blue Shutters considered ourselves birdwatchers -- before we arrived here on Good Harbor Beach. Now we spend hours watching the birds of all kinds zip across the yard, swoop across the marsh and sail over the beach. That's why we were so excited to hear about the Cape Ann Winter Birding Weekend, January 30through February 1 -- and why we were quick to offer a special package for the birdwatchers expected to visit Cape Ann later this month. We're offering 10% off any room, plus a "welcome package" that includes a bottle of Smoking Loon wine and a selection of cheeses as well as complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon hot chocolate and cookies. According to the experts, Cape Ann is known to birdwatchers worldwide for its exciting concentrations of winter seabirds. Working with the Mass Audubon Society, the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce has planned a weekend filled with opportunity for bird lovers of all skill levels to join expert guides on a tour of Cape Ann's birding hot spots. If you're a birdwatcher -- or if you'd like to give it a try -- check out this special weekend on Cape Ann. And of course, plan to rest up at the Blue Shutters.