MARGIT BRANDT
December 2022
Give us an update on the Margit Brandt Palm Beach brand and operation since your Spotlight cover shoot in 2022!
It’s incredible to look back at where we were in 2022 because at that point, we were just getting started. We had a strong vision and unusually solid momentum, but the business was still in its early stages compared to where we are today. For perspective, In 2022, we closed approximately $188 million in sales volume, which at the time felt like a huge milestone for us. Fast forward to 2026, and we have now surpassed $850 million in sold or pending activity year-to-date, and over $1.3 billion in sold or pending activity since 2025. Seeing this level of growth in a relatively short period of time has been a testament to consistency, customer experiences, the authenticity of our relationships, our incredible support staff, and the trust our clients continue to place in us.
Over the last few years, we’ve expanded our marketing reach to a global scale while fine-tuning the types of properties we’re choosing to represent locally in Palm Beach, now particularly focusing on waterfront estates and also non-waterfront residences priced over $10 million. We’re continuing to build a brand that feels both elevated and deeply personal. I’m most proud that the growth happened organically through reputation, repeat business, referrals, and just pure track record. Four years after our Spotlight cover, the brand stands for something to the marketplace, and for the most part customers and colleagues alike know the type of superior results they can expect when they engage with us.
And our market itself continues to grow as well, with a higher and higher percentage of our clients every year deciding to make Palm Beach the HQ for their businesses, families versus purchasing a second home. While traveling in the summer is still a popular option, almost all our clients are now here for at least six months and almost half are even here for the entire school year.
Wow, that’s a remarkable growth rate of 352 percent in four years, or 45.8 percent per year. Are you able to take it all in and enjoy the process?
We try to, but that’s certainly a challenge whenever you’re in this kind of environment. The irony is living in this Palm Beach paradise but actually working more than we ever did in NYC. I think celebrating your wins is an important discipline that’s often overlooked, especially in high-performance situations where people immediately move on to the next goal. Taking a moment to appreciate your progress is essential because it keeps you motivated and grounded for the next milestone. There’s so much truth in the “enjoy the journey” mantra, because the destination is never as good as it seems. At the same time, we believe that long-term achievement comes from staying level-headed and balanced through both the highs and the lows. Business is full of momentum shifts, and consistency, discipline, and focus ultimately sustain performance over time. There’s a quote I love: “Most people can survive failure, but most people can’t survive success.”
To me, that speaks to the importance of remaining diligent and humble regardless of the outcome every day. Whether you lost the pitch meeting on a $100 million listing or sold a $100 million house, your actions and behavior the next day should remain consistent. The best performers celebrate briefly, reset quickly, and continue showing up at the highest level. You can see that with entertainers, athletes, and CEOs. Tennis and golf professionals, for example, often just celebrate the night of a win and perhaps take the next day off, but then they are flying off to the next tournament. That mindset—a commitment to humility regardless of results—has always resonated with me.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m deeply focused on evaluating and digesting our 2025–26 season, looking at what worked, what didn’t, where we performed well, and where we can improve. I’m always trying to refine systems, make adjustments, and stay proactive in preparing for the next season rather than reactive once it begins. We’re currently planning for our 2026–27 season and spending a lot of time curating what our portfolio will look like as we transition back to Palm Beach in the fall. Fortunately, we’ve had a tremendous amount of inbound opportunities recently, including incredible listing opportunities, so we’re being intentional about what we bring to market and how we can continue creating a unique brand with a diverse but elevated portfolio of properties. We’re especially excited about a few truly spectacular waterfront compounds launching this fall, and will keep Spotlight in the loop!
Summer Hamptons plans?
We’ll be spending time in and out of East Hampton this summer, which we’re looking forward to. Summer is one of the few times of year where we intentionally try to slow down a bit, recharge, and spend quality time with family and close friends. Even though real estate never completely stops, creating space to reset mentally, physically, and creatively is important. The Hamptons always provides that perfect balance of relaxation, inspiration, and social energy.
What’s your No. 1 tip for balancing being a real estate powerhouse and a mom/wife?
Without question: time management. Knowing how to prioritize and delegate effectively has been the most impactful strategy for us. One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to do everything themselves, and over time I’ve learned that being productive is not the same thing as being effective. I use a system called “Do, Defer, or Delete” when making decisions around my schedule and responsibilities. If something absolutely requires my attention, I do it. If my support staff can handle it more efficiently, I defer it. And if it’s not truly valuable or impactful, I delete it entirely. That framework has helped me eliminate a lot of unnecessary noise and wasted time. Creating those boundaries allows me to be much more present when it counts. And my final observation on this would be that it’s much more helpful to approach everything with a little bit of perspective and gratitude, rather than a feeling of obligation. Instead of viewing a crazy day as just having to balance so many things at once or being overwhelmed (which does happen a lot!), we try our best to think of it as how lucky we are to have fulfillment and passion both at work and at home. We’re always thankful for the excitement, in whatever form it comes, and that positive thinking overall can go a long way.
STEPHANIE GOTTLIEB
August 2022
You were one of our first cover stars! What was your favorite part of being featured on the cover of Spotlight?
Being on the cover of Spotlight was incredibly special because the Hamptons have always been a meaningful place for me. I grew up spending summers there with my family, and now I get to share that experience with my own children. Over the years, many of my clients and friends have also become part of that community, so it was a wonderful opportunity to connect with people who have supported my business and introduce the brand to new faces.
What’s been new in your world since then?
Successes, missteps, and a lot of growth. We’ve continued to expand the brand in meaningful ways—bringing on experienced team members, launching new collections, and innovating on the product and client experience side. We’ve also moved into new marketing channels and seriously expanded our brand awareness with viral moments; we actually dressed Taylor Swift for the 2024 Super Bowl (a pinch-me moment!). We’ve moved into a gorgeous showroom on Fifth Avenue in New York City, which is something I’m really proud of. And as always, I’m working on balancing business growth with being present for my family.
What’s one thing you’re celebrating in life right now?
Learning to enjoy the process and trust my intuition. Historically, I was always chasing the next goal, but I’ve been making more of an effort to appreciate the journey.
What’s the latest and greatest with the Stephanie Gottlieb brand?
We have some big launches and well-timed co-branded collaborations in the works that I think will be huge for the brand. We’re always listening to what our clients want and finding new ways to help them tell their stories through jewelry. We’ve had products go totally viral, like our Martini Olive Cocktail Ring and Personalized Slider Bangle; these have inspired new and successful collections. Another clear focus is advancing our digital; I take a lot of pride in being a social media pioneer and am always on the lookout for what’s next.
BATSHEVA HAART
May 2022
You were our first cover star and Spotlight was your first magazine cover. What was that like?
It was an absolute dream to be the first cover star for Spotlight. I had an incredible time shooting all the looks. The team and stylists were fantastic and made the shoot feel special. I felt so honored to be featured as a cover star especially as it was my first magazine shoot experience.
How has your life changed since this?
My life has changed so much since we shot back in May 2022. I was going through a divorce and trying to find my footing in life as a single girl living in NYC. Since then I’ve moved to Miami and started a wonderful new chapter there.
How’s your mother, Julia, and sister, Miriam?
My mom and sister are doing great! They have both moved as well. My mom to Miami and my sister to Israel.
We see you have a new man! Give us the scoop!
We met around the holidays last year when he was visiting Miami from L.A. to try it out. Since then we’ve done long distance and made it work! I’m currently moved in with him in L.A. until after the summer. Things have been going so well!
What are you most excited for this summer?
I have a lot of upcoming travel that I’m excited about! I’ll be in Italy with my boyfriend for two weeks and then a friend’s wedding in Provence. Obviously looking forward to spending some time in the Hamptons and enjoying the beautiful weather.
SARAH WETENHALL
Spring 2023
You were on our cover in 2023. Any favorite memory from your Spotlight shoot/cover party?
The cover came at such a special moment for us; it coincided with the launch of Dolce & Gabbana’s long-term residency at The Colony. We actually soft-launched the partnership through the shoot itself, with Dolce dressing me for the cover. That purple-and-white suit was everything. I’ve always loved a Dolce moment, but wearing it for a cover that celebrated Palm Beach and The Colony made it feel especially memorable.
Since then, you’ve opened The Hedges Inn. How does it feel to have expanded your brand into the Hamptons?
Opening The Hedges has been incredibly meaningful because it represents more than growth; it’s an opportunity to bring the spirit of hospitality we’ve cultivated at The Colony to another community we deeply love. Palm Beach and the Hamptons each have their own unique character, but both share a strong sense of place and tradition. Being able to become part of that story while honoring what makes each destination so special has been both humbling and exciting.
Most rewarding and challenging part of being a hotel owner Out East?
The most rewarding part has been the welcome we’ve received from the community and seeing guests embrace what we’re creating. There’s something incredibly gratifying about watching a hotel become woven into the fabric of a place and creating memories for people, year after year. As for challenges, every destination with a strong identity comes with a responsibility to get it right. Balancing preservation and innovation is always a thoughtful process, but it’s also what makes the work so fulfilling.
Favorite summer Hamptons tradition?
Paddleboarding on Peconic Bay is one of my favorite summer rituals. More than anything, though, it’s the time spent with family that makes the season so special. Living in the city, the Hamptons feels like a sanctuary—a place where we can slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being together in a beautiful setting.
CANDACE BUSHNELL
August 2024
Best memory from your Spotlight cover shoot?
The fantastic clothes for the shoot. I loved the polka dot dress I wore on the cover.
What are you working on now?
Quite a few exciting new things that unfortunately I can’t talk about yet.
If Sex and the City were written in 2026, what would be the biggest difference from the original column?
The characters would definitely be texting, on social media and dating apps.
What’s something you’ve learned recently that you wish everyone knew?
I recently learned a dance from TikTok that I’ve been trying to get my friends to learn, but so far they’ve refused!
ERIN LICHY
August 2023
It’s been a minute! How’s life been since your 2023 Spotlight cover shoot?
It’s been great! Things have moved so quickly and a lot has happened. I had a baby, moved into a new home—and so much in between.
Favorite memory from your Spotlight shoot/cover party?
The shoot and the launch party were both so much fun! I loved being able to have all my family and friends come support Out East and celebrate such an amazing publication with me that represents my home away from home.
Some new cast members are joining RHONY this year. How are you feeling about that?
I’m so happy with the new cast members. The show feels complete, and they were the missing puzzle pieces.
How are you handling the fame that’s come with the show?
It has its good and bad days, but mostly I’m proud to share my authentic life with you and everyone else who watches.
How’s your husband, Abe, and the kids?
Abe and the kids are great! We’re setting into being a family of six and into our new home!
What are you looking forward to this summer?
Hiding away Out East!
DYLAN LAUREN
Memorial Day 2024
How’s life been since your 2024 Spotlight cover shoot?
Life has been super busy! Between getting our twins, Cooper Blue and Kingsley Rainbow, geared up to graduate lower school, balancing time with parents and friends, and working to make every store experience even more incredible as we explore the possibility of a new flagship in New York City, it’s been a lot in the best way.
What’s new at Dylan’s Candy Bar East Hampton?
We’ve expanded the ice cream parlor in our East Hampton store and focused on creating an incredible menu of frozen yogurt and 12 types of ice cream, including my favorite, Marshmallow Clouds. We also have 30 topping options, from cereals like Cap’n Crunch, candy bars like Twix and Whoppers, candies like gummy bears, and snacks like potato chips and animal crackers. As part of our newest menu offerings, you can now blend them into a Dylan’s Chill’in frozen shake, which is absolutely delicious!
What are you looking forward to this summer?
Minardi Beach Boot Camp, because it’s mentally and physically challenging and empowering.
Favorite candy of the moment?
Our new S’mores Ooey Gooey Bar is addictive and my favorite because it has the perfect ratio of fluffy marshmallow, crunchy graham cracker, and creamy milk chocolate.
RAMY BROOK SHARP
Memorial Day 2025
You were on the cover of Spotlight last year. What was your favorite part of the shoot?
Seeing the entire vision come to life. We loved how the backdrop matched the dress, creating a look that felt very Ramy Brook. Working with [photographer] Andrew [Werner] is always such a pleasure. The entire Spotlight team was wonderful to work with, and it was exciting to celebrate the cover at the event and then see the story come to life across both print and social media.
What’s the latest with your brand?
We’re excited to introduce our new hybrid swim/cover-up collection, inspired by the girl who’s at the beach all day and somehow ends up at dinner looking completely put together. The pieces are designed to take you from the beach club/Surf Lodge DJ set to sunset cocktails and dinner without needing a full outfit change. We’re also continuing to grow our jewelry collection, which has become such an exciting part of the brand. I love that women can now create an entire Ramy Brook look, from swim and ready-to-wear to the jewelry that finishes it all off!
What is your favorite Fourth of July tradition?
Hosting friends and family. Every year, I love decorating the table in red, white, and blue, and I always add a new twist—whether it’s a pop of purple, silver accents, or a fun decorative detail. We spend the day out on our friends’ boats, and one of my favorite moments is watching the fireworks from the water.
RACHEL ZOE
July 2023
What was your favorite part of being on the cover of Spotlight?
The Hamptons is such a special place to me and my family. Seeing Spotlight at all of my favorite Hamptons places around town was my favorite part. Plus, I love any excuse to wear a gorgeous Oscar de la renta gown.
Since your cover, you’ve joined the cast of RHOBH. What was the best and most challenging parts of joining the show?
Meeting an incredible group of women and being able to share a more unfiltered side of my life. Honestly, the most challenging part was balancing the busy shooting schedule with all the other parts of my business and life.
How are your two sons?
My boys are incredible. They’re turning into the most amazing little gentlemen who take care of me, especially in this time when I have needed it more than ever. Watching them become such kind, confident, and thoughtful young men has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
Are you dating this summer?
I’m focused on enjoying this chapter of my life, spending time with my family and friends, traveling, and dancing on tables in Europe this summer.
Favorite Hamptons style essential?
Caftans, big sunnies, and chunky wedges all day every day.
