Meet Marissa Hochberg, VP of Brand Partnerships at The Surf Lodge Montauk + Snow Lodge Aspen. We chatted with Hochberg about her journey with CBD and anxiety, how she brought wellness into the fold at The Surf Lodge and how Montauk is looking a bit different this summer.
What does a typical day in the life look like for you?
Things look a lot different these days. I always start my day with a cup of coffee (usually make my first cup at home with my Nespresso machine and froth some oat milk). Then I take my vitamins/supplements and probiotics. I always start my day with a homemade egg white omelette. It’s how I lost a lot of my weight years ago and believe it’s the way I’ve truly kept it off. I try and get a workout in early in the morning but sometimes the work just begins! Since the pandemic has started I’ll take a long walk early as I’m living out in Montauk and then come back to my computer and begin to work.
Why did you start using CBD?
I’ve always suffered from horrible anxiety. At one point in my life I actually had crippling panic attacks. Working in the wellness space, when I found out that there was something “natural” that could take the edge off I felt I had to do my research and try this to ease my anxiety.
CBD Expert or CBD Newbie?
Expert but always open to learning more. I think this is an ever evolving category for new knowledge.
Social Stigma or Socially Acceptable?
Socially Acceptable!
What brought you to The Surf Lodge?
I grew up coming out to Montauk since I was a baby. I have spent every single summer here. When I was in college I had gained a significant amount of weight. I decided on my own through a healthy diet and exercise that I would lose that weight on my own. I achieved much of that weight loss in Montauk. I saw that The Surf Lodge had a concert series, artist series but no wellness component. I approached the owner about starting one and the rest is history!
Favorite moment or memory at the The Surf Lodge?
When John Legend performed last summer! What an unforgettable night that was!
The Surf Lodge is a Montauk staple, what makes Montauk such a special place?
Montauk is surrounded by three bodies of water. The air is so fresh and clean here. You have such an eclectic group of people all mingling together. There are fashion designers, artists, Wall Street guys, families and locals all mingling together in this special place. The bucolic setting in Montauk allows one to think, unwind and connect peacefully with those around them. Montauk’s serene setting allows for memories to be made that will last for a lifetime no matter what age you are or what field you work in.
What does summer in Montauk look like in 2020?
Definitely a lot different than past summers but actually really nice. Most establishments are being very safe and conforming to the “new normal”. Days are mainly spent working from home or at the beach and then at a nice socially distant dinner on the weekends. For me personally it has been nice because I have been able to host socially distant dinners at The Surf Lodge for brands and actually have had time to connect with the clients. Instead of running around non-stop during a normal busy season I have been able to take my time and give extra attention to each client which has formed some really nice client relationships. Additionally I am so proud that The Surf Lodge has pivoted to digital and taken our famous concert series online in partnership with Bumble. We had a very successful lineup Memorial Day Weekend and have a two day concert series this weekend (Labor Day) September 5th + 6th! Make sure to tune in on our Youtube Channel!
Partnerships, music and new experiences (hello, Surf Lodge Aspen!) is a big part of what makes The Surf Lodge so unique, tell us more about how the team approaches new ideas and partners.
Thank you! We truly filter all of our partners that we bring in. We look for brands that align aesthetically with The Surf Lodge and also align in promoting our values/programming including music, art and wellness. We also look for brands that want to think outside of the box as we think we do and be as creative as possible. We want guests to have new and exciting experiences and want to align with brands that want to do the same.
What role has music played at The Surf Lodge?
Music is the universal language. Music brings together locals, vacationers, designers, celebrities and the list can go on of the most eclectic group of people united in one space for music. Music is the backbone of The Surf Lodge and we are proud of the artists we work with.
What does balance look like for you?
I like to make lists. If things seem overwhelming I make a checklist and sit at my desk until everything gets done. I have also taught myself not to overwhelm myself in stressful situations because it only makes things worse and doesn’t then allow me to tackle the stressful situation. Instead I take a deep breath and try and maneuver the situation as best I can in the calmest manner that I can.
You work at a place where most go to unwind, how do you unwind?
I love to walk in nature and on the beach, it brings me a tremendous amount of peace. I also love cooking and exploring new recipes. Going to a fresh farmstead and then conjuring up recipes in my kitchen is my greatest version of unwinding.
Mantra of the moment?
One Step at a Time Lifestyle summed up in one sentence: Live, love, laugh and work hard all in style.
Favorite thing about summer?
Fresh produce from the local farm stands
Best piece of advice you ever received?
Never look back only forward
Currently inspired by?
The healthcare workers on the frontlines
Life hack of all life hacks?
Never look back, you’re not going that way.
Sun or shade?
Sun
Most played song right now?
“Every Little Kiss” Bruce Hornsby, The Range
Favorite current read?
The Purist Magazine
Brand you can’t live without?
Zimmermann
If you could grab lunch with one person, who would it be?
Sheryl Sandberg