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The Swellesley Report

Since 2005: More than you really want to know about Wellesley, Mass.

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Wellesley Business Buzz—Barber Walters ownership change; Tyler & Sash shuts its windows; sign up now to ring the Red Kettle bell

December 2, 2025 by Deborah Brown

Barber Walters gets a new cut

There’s been an ownership change at Barber Walters, the full-service, six-chair barbershop where clients can book services from a standard haircut, to a beard treatment, to a luxurious hot towel shave, and more. Cristian Lopez, master barber and longtime Barber Walters employee, has taken over management of the Wellesley Square business, located at 576B Washington St., in the Belclare condo complex.

Barber Walters, Wellesley
Photo by Barber Walters

Cristian, originally from Somerville, Massachusetts, says he has always had an interest in the hair business. The 2019 Boston College graduate discovered his barbering talents cutting his roommates’ hair. Now with more than 10 years of professional experience he takes pleasure in helping his clients achieve their hair goals.

Cristian says he strives to create an old-timey, community feel, where clients can get plugged into the social scene, talk about sports and make lifelong friends.

Barber Walters has been a Wellesley fixture since 2018.


Tyler & Sash sashays to Winchester

Joshua Bogart, owner of the recently closed Wellesley location of Tyler & Sash says, “We have cherished our time at our little corner in Wellesley Square for over six years,” but ultimately a business decision was made to expand its home base at the larger Winchester showroom.

The full-service window treatment gallery and design center specializes in fine fabrics and wallpaper. Given that Winchester is a quick 30-minute drive from Wellesley Square, there’s no need for loyal (and new) clients to give up Bogart and his growing team’s design expertise. Browse all the options online before heading over.

Previously the corner spot, located next to Wellesley Bakery, was home to Red Apple convenience store.


The business of Salvation Army bell ringing—sign up now

In Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the ghost of Scrooge’s deceased business partner, shackled in chains, scoffs at his earthly business acumen. Only in death did Jacob Marley finally figure it out—“Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, benevolence, were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!”

What’s that got to do with Wellesley? Well, seems like signups are only fair to middlin’ for the annual Red Kettle drive, which runs Dec. 8 –  Dec. 24, in front of Roche Bros. in Linden Square. Given that the annual effort is a critical source of funding for our neighbors experiencing medical, housing, food and other needs, your help is really needed.

Take a turn at the bell. Mr. and Mrs. Swellesley ring the bell every year and it’s always fun to see friends and strangers (just people we haven’t met yet, right?) as they run their errands. Pennies, quarters, benjys—those donations all add up as an expression of the charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence of which the ghost of Mr. Marley learned, all too late. Learn from Mr. Marley.

Sign up today to ring the Red Kettle bell. 


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Filed Under: Business, Charity/Fundraising

     

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Everything came up green for Wellesley Middle School teachers at Spelling Bee

November 28, 2025 by Emma Kresge

spelling bee
The winning word for the Spell-tics  (Photos courtesy of George Roberts)

 
Three Wellesley Middle School teachers won their first victory after 20 years of competing in the Wellesley Education Fund’s annual spelling bee Wednesday night, correctly spelling “ailurophile” to defeat 38 other teams.

The Spell-tics – two middle school teachers and one retiree – studied for hours at Starbucks to prepare for the 36th annual competition, according to Kari Sciera, a member of the winning team.

“We’ve come 20 years in a row,” she said, “and this is the first time we’ve won.” The winning word, “ailurophile,” is a noun used to identify a cat lover. 

The champions entered the competition with extra motivation: Their own students beat them last year. The Spell-tics eliminated the reigning champions, eighth graders, in Round 4.

Dozens of grinning and giggling Wellesley residents packed the Wellesley High School cafeteria for the good-natured fundraiser, which attracted participants ranging from middle school students to firefighters and tennis coaches. In all, 39 teams competed.

Beyond spelling prowess, teams competed for costume awards. The WPS Secretaries won first place for best costume, Wellesley Cotillion took second and the Spell-tics placed third in Boston Celtics uniforms. Other contestants wore Dunkin onesies,  tutus and a blow-up bumblebee costume. 

“It’s our biggest event of the year and we love how it brings the whole community together,” said Tizzy Chamberlain, co-president of the Wellesley Education Fund.

Gregg Myles Levin, Treasurer for WEF, said the group typically funds around $250,000 in annual grants for Wellesley educators, including projects such as an Anatomage Table, guitars for Wellesley High School, cell phone pouches for Wellesley Middle School, and library furnishings. 

The spelling bee’s sponsors included Needham Bank, Babson College, Wellesley College, and Schumacher Companies Landscape Artisans. 

This story was produced in partnership with the Boston University Department of Journalism.

Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025

Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025

Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025
School Committee members

 
Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025

Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025

Wellesley Spelling Bee 2025

More photos…

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Charity/Fundraising, Education

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Non-profit roundup: Wellesley Historical Society gives members an in with 1,400 museums; Society of Artists award-winners; Gardeners’ Guild & wintry beauty

November 26, 2025 by Deborah Brown

The latest Wellesley, Mass., non-profit news:

Wellesley Historical Society officially in with the cool museums

Select Wellesley Historical membership levels now include complimentary general admission at more than 1,400 museums across North America, including over 100 institutions in Massachusetts such as the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Harvard Art Museums, and the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

This new benefit complements the recent opening of the Wellesley History & Exhibit Center at 323 Washington Street, which serves as a community hub for exhibitions, collections, and educational programs celebrating Wellesley’s rich heritage.

Also, don’t miss the Art and Ornament Sale, November 28–December 23, presented in partnership with the Wellesley Society of Artists.


Wellesley Society of Artists announces award winners

The Wellesley Society of Artists has announced the award winners for the Annual Library Show at an opening reception earlier this month. The exhibit is on display at the Wellesley Public Library through November 29.  Judging the show was Patrick McCay, who completed his undergraduate and graduate studies in Fine Arts at the Glasgow School of Art, Scotland, U.K. McCay holds a second Masters in Fine Arts from the University of Notre Dame and is an active visiting artist and lecturer.

“All of the WSA members deserve appropriate accolades for the highly commendable creative continuity in participating in the exhibition.  In art, we are generally dealing with an ability to represent experiences (real or imagined), in a lucid form through personal choice, style and expressive engagement…If we are not making authentic connections, we have likely not successfully realized our initial artistic objective,” McCay said.

First place—”Shelter and Flight,” by Deborah Friedman

Wellesley Society of Artists
Colored Pencil

 

Second place—”Composition 7,” by Judith Schneider

 

Wellesley Society of Artists
Acrylic

 

Third place— “Transported,” by Lori Mehta

 

Oil

 

Other award winners

  • Margaret Fitzwilliam, Best Watercolor
  • Yale Nicolls, Best Interpretation of the Natural World
  • Honorable mention,  Joanna Dole; Dayle Bodnar; Dottie Laughlin; Martha Marson

Wellesley Gardeners’ Guild strikes again

Members of the Wellesley Gardeners’ Guild (WGG) last week decorated the Wellesley Square and Wellesley Hills post office boxes in a wintry theme for the holiday and beyond. Led by Window Box Committee members Pat Conry, Chris Oliver, Lauren Cook, Kathleen Henderson, Trish Lucas and Jan Locher, a group of about a dozen talented floral arrangers worked side-by-side on site at the Square post office, making quick work of the joyful task.

Photos by Wellesley Gardeners’ Guild.

Wellesley Gardeners Guild
WGG members in front of the Wellesley Square post office.
Wellesley Gardeners Guild
The beautiful finished product.

Non-profits are welcome to advertise on Swellesley. Learn more about becoming an advertising partner to expand your reach. 

Thanks to longtime advertiser Wellesley Theatre Project.

Filed Under: Charity/Fundraising

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Wellesley Holiday Happenings 2025—how to embrace the spirit of giving

New in Wellesley Holiday Happenings—how to embrace the spirit of giving

The holiday season presents a wonderful opportunity to embrace the spirit of giving by supporting local nonprofits and others that are holding events or initiatives  that benefit various causes. Consider supporting these local organizations with a service-minded mission.

Don’t see your organization listed? Contact theswellesleyreport@gmail.com for inclusion. We’re keeping this holiday-themed, so please don’t simply pitch your non-profit’s annual appeal.


Wellesley Neighbors

Mission: Empowering adults 60+ in Wellesley and surrounding towns through lasting friendships, trusted support, and ways to stay active, engaged, and valued in the community they call home. Wellesley Neighbors is a member-based network built on relationships, through social events, shared interests, and volunteer support that make daily life easier, richer, and more fun.

How you can help: Do your holiday shopping through the FairTrade Caravans fundraiser, 25% of all proceeds purchased through the Wellesley Neighbors link goes directly to Wellesley Neighbors programs. FairTrade Caravans is based right here in Massachusetts.


Marine Toys for Tots drive, drop off spots

The public is invited to donate new, unwrapped toys at these Wellesley locations:

Brookline Bank at 35 Washington St. and 448 Washington Street (Nov. 3 – Dec. 12, 2025)


Figuerella

Mission: Community event to feature local makers, small businesses, giftable wellness items, and festive treats at a Holiday Market on Friday, December 13, from 12–3pm, at Figuerella, 51 Church St., Wellesley.


Don’t see your holiday giving opportunity here? Contact theswellesleyreport@gmail.com for inclusion.

Wellesley Hills Congregational Church

Wellesley Marketplace Returns: Celebrate 47 Years of Holiday Tradition!

November 19, 2025 by admin

SPONSORED CONTENT: The holiday season kicks off in Wellesley with the 47th annual Wellesley Marketplace, taking place Saturday, November 22nd, at Wellesley High School. Get your tickets here. This beloved community event showcases more than 200 artisans, boutique owners, and craftspeople from across New England—making it the go-to destination for unique, meaningful gifts.

Wellesley Marketplace, 2025
The Wellesley Hills Junior Women’s Club always knows how to put the fun in fundraising.

Shoppers can explore an incredible range of locally made treasures, from fine art and gourmet treats to jewelry, clothing, home décor, toys, ornaments, and much more. Whether you’re checking off your holiday list, hunting for a thoughtful hostess or teacher gift, or indulging in something special for yourself, you’ll find it here.

Wellesley Marketplace is one of three fundraisers coordinated by the Wellesley Hills Junior Women’s Club (WHJWC), and all proceeds generated are used to provide scholarships for deserving local students, as well as grants for organizations and programs that provide education, enrichment, and essential services to our local population.

Year after year, generations of shoppers return for the festive atmosphere, high-quality selection, and opportunity to support local makers and small businesses. By shopping at Marketplace, you’ll not only discover the perfect holiday gifts but also help strengthen the community.

Join us for one of the Boston area’s favorite holiday shopping traditions! Bring your friends, embrace the holiday spirit, and enjoy a full day of shopping, celebrating, and supporting local talent.

Tickets on Sale beginning 10/15! Click here to purchase.

DATE: Saturday, November 22nd
LOCATION: Wellesley High School, 50 Rice St.

Shop small. Give big. Start the season with Marketplace.

Filed Under: Charity/Fundraising, Clubs, Shopping

Rotary Club, Taste of Wellesley

It’s almost Red Kettle time in Wellesley—sign up to ring the bell and help your neighbors in need

November 12, 2025 by Deborah Brown

The 2025 Red Kettle Campaign will launch on December 8 and run until December 24! Sign up today to get your preferred day and time.  Whether you are a seasoned bell ringer or a first-time volunteer, your help is needed.

The Wellesley Kiwanis Club has hosted the Salvation Army Red Kettle nearly every December since 1994.  The familiar Red Kettle will be in its usual spot in front of Roche Brothers beginning Monday, December 8th. Sign up online.

Sign up for as many times as you wish. Each one-hour shift allows two ringers—feel free to do the full time, or find a friend to share the shift with you.

Schuler Wellesley
The late John and Dwin Schuler (pictured here in 2017) organized the Red Kettle drive for many years. John passed in 2024, and Dwin followed last summer.

Overseen so successfully by the late Dwin and John Schuler for many years, the Wellesley Red Kettle is a critical source of funding for those experiencing medical, housing, food and other needs. Red Kettle donations are used to ensure that Wellesley families and individuals in need have the help they require throughout the coming months. This year, the need appears to be greater than ever. In the last ten years Kettle receipts have been nearly $25,000 each year, an amazing total.

If you have a question or need help signing up, please contact Beth Sullivan Woods at bsullivan@eas-planning.com or 781-237-6543.

Filed Under: Charity/Fundraising, Holidays

Wellesley Symphony Orchestra, 2026

Community Fund for Wellesley ignites local impact with $60K in grants

November 11, 2025 by admin

Community Fund for Wellesley (CFFW) is injecting over $60,000 into the heart of the local community this year by supporting vital work across a spectrum of crucial areas: healthcare, tackling food insecurity, environmental protection, community building, education, and the arts. These impactful grants were distributed through both the CFFW endowed fund and the Al Robinson Fund for Arts.

Community Fund for Wellesley 2025
CFFW Board -(L-R) Julia de Peyster, Rehka Sampath, Phillippa Biggers, Ellen Gibbs, Wendy Paul, Lisa Novakoff, Wendy Garber & Tina Chen

The power of collective giving was on full display at the annual grant awards event, last month at Papa Razzi. A dynamic crowd of 60, including representatives of nonprofit grantee organizations, Wellesley leaders,  Community Fund Board, founders, and supporters, gathered to celebrate the year’s success.

CFFW Board Member Julia de Peyster, served as event emcee.  Her announcement that grants were awarded to 19 nonprofits and town entities was greeted by warm applause. Two grantee representatives, Marc Zawel of the Wellesley Cultural Council and Meryl Glassman of Dignity Matters, shared their organizations’ missions and the impact CFFW grant funds will make on their work. After the brief program, guests enjoyed meeting their fellow nonprofit leaders and sharing ideas in their service to the Wellesley community.

As an endowed fund of the Community Foundation for MetroWest, the CFFW has proven its long-term commitment to the area, having awarded more than $800,000 in grants since its founding in 2008.

Community Fund for Wellesley’s 2025 grant recipients

Art Wellesley
Charles River Watershed Association
Community Investors
Dignity Matters
Gratis Healthcare
Jane Does Well
Land’s Sake Farm
Minding Your Mind
OUT MetroWest
Human Relations Service
Village Table Wellesley
Walker Therapeutic & Educational Programs
Wellesley A Better Chance
Wellesley Celebrations Committee
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust
Wellesley Food Pantry
Wellesley Symphony Orchestra
Wellesley Theatre Project
Wellesley Cultural Council

Volunteer for Community Fund for Wellesley

Community Fund for Wellesley needs YOU! Start the ball rolling here or contact them at (508) 647-2260.

Filed Under: Charity/Fundraising

Calling all spellers and sponsors for Nov. 19th Wellesley Spelling Bee

November 7, 2025 by Deborah Brown

The Wellesley Education Foundation’s 36th Wellesley Spelling Bee is slated for Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 7pm, at the Wellesley High School Cafeteria, 50 Rice St., so it’s time to get your team together for the annual fundraiser and competition. The event is WEF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and proceeds fund grants to local educators.

A few dozen teams typically take part in the fun, volunteer-run event. Last year’s Bee was one of our favorites, with the Wellesley Middle School 8th graders winning it all with the word “nucivorous.” The middle school is fielding another 8th grade team, which aims to take the trophy back to WMS.

Wellesley Education Foundation Spelling Bee 2024
2024 Spelling Bee winners “Wellesley Middle School 8th graders.” From left, a proud WMS Principal Mark Ito; Aniruddh Arun; Tyler Pollack, Eafan Sher, emcee Mike Dowling; WHS Principal Jamie Chisum; Superintendent David Lussier.

Register a 3-person team for $500. Costumes are encouraged.

Donate to support a team.

Last year, WEF funded over $233,000 in grants and supported the new WPS cell phone policy, funding the Yondr pouch system for WMS as well as a cell phone storage solution for WHS.

Other recent funding highlights

  • new mobile furniture for elementary school libraries, replacing existing heavy furniture
  • new rollerblading equipment for the 4th and 5th grades
  • PAES Lab for life skill and career development at the high school, supporting the Skills and Launch programs
  • a cutting-edge Anatomage Table, for use in the high school’s anatomy and physiology class and other science classes

Reach a wider audience & support your local news source by advertising on The Swellesley Report.

Filed Under: Charity/Fundraising, Education

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