How Top Sotheby’s Agents and Curated Properties Created an Unforgettable Island Experience
There are some days that make you pause, smile, and quietly say to yourself, this is why I love what I do. The Nantucket Luxury Tour was one of those days.
When I first envisioned this event, my goal was clear: to bring together a small, curated group of real estate professionals and give them an authentic experience of what luxury truly looks and feels like on Nantucket.
But more importantly, I wanted to demonstrate to the sellers who have entrusted me with their listings the power of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand—a brand that offers not just local expertise, but national exposure and global reach.
What unfolded that day went far beyond a property tour. It became an immersion into lifestyle, design, architecture, and storytelling — a full-sensory introduction to what makes this island, and the way we represent it, so extraordinary.
This is the Bernadette difference: thoughtful, elevated, and strategic representation with impact that extends far beyond the island.
Whether you're a longtime homeowner, a first-time buyer, a potential seller, or a fellow agent thinking about working together, I want to share this story with you — not just as a recap, but as a window into what I believe is possible when you approach real estate with heart, creativity, and excellence.
The Vision Behind the Experience
As a broker, my greatest strength isn’t just my experience or my sales record — though I’m proud of both. It’s trust. Trust from buyers and sellers that I will guide them with integrity, insight, and care. Trust from my fellow Sotheby’s International Realty agents that when they refer their valued clients to me on Nantucket, I will deliver an experience that reflects the very best of our brand.
When I envisioned this event, that’s what I wanted to demonstrate — how I build trust. How I collaborate. How I represent not only homes, but the lifestyle and legacy that come with them.
The agents who joined us didn’t come here for vacation. These are top producers from our key feeder markets — New York, Boston and the outskirts, Greenwich, the Hamptons, Palm Beach, the South Shore, and Key West — and they made a significant investment of time and resources to be here. They came because they trusted me when I said this would be worth it. And I wanted to ensure I delivered on that promise.
I’m honored to be recognized among Sotheby’s International Realty’s Top 100 Agents worldwide, and to serve as a member of Our Trusted Network, a hand-selected group of Sotheby’ brokers dedicated to elevating service across premier global markets. These accolades matter — but not for the titles. They matter because they allow me to advocate for my clients in ways that are strategic, far-reaching, and deeply personal.
At this level, buyers and sellers aren’t looking to be sold to — they want to be seen, heard, and understood. They expect creativity, discretion, and results. And agents referring them expect nothing less than excellence.
This tour was created to reflect all of that. A curated experience where relationships could deepen, the market could come alive, and the essence of Nantucket luxury could be felt — not just described.
A Warm Welcome, Island Style
The experience began the evening before the tour for those who arrived early, with a private boat excursion of Nantucket Harbor courtesy of Flying Bridge Marina. Despite the thick fog—the Grey Lady in full form—we made the best of it. For those seeing the island from the water for the first time, and even for those who had been before, it was love at first sight all over again. The salt air, the camaraderie, and the quiet beauty of Nantucket set the tone for what was to come.
“Absolutely one of the best tours to date! Completely fell for the Island. We shopped & had amazing lobster rolls at Straight Wharf Fish. 🐟 Bernadette, you are an epic host!”
A Day in Review
We began the next morning at One Ocean Avenue, a grand estate comprising four distinct dwellings. It was the ideal place to ground the day in Nantucket’s unique value proposition. Over a casual breakfast, I shared insights on what truly drives this market: demographics that reflect a blend of legacy families and rising wealth, strict conservation efforts that protect over 50% of the island, architectural integrity that keeps neighborhoods authentic, and ultra-low property taxes that continue to attract high-net-worth buyers from across the country. And beyond the numbers, we talked about the why — how Nantucket’s quiet elegance, cultural richness, and deep-rooted sense of place make it more than a market—it’s a lifestyle.
Next, we toured 2 Mariner Way, 4 and 6 Mariner Way , new construction residences located near the Harbor, downtown, and the Great Harbor Yatch Club, followed by a stop at 32 Pine Street — a beautifully restored 1841 antique in the heart of downtown Town, where historic character meets modern sophistication.
From there, we arrived at 7 Judith Chase Lane for what became the most emotionally resonant part of the day: a long, elegant lunch in the home’s grand dining room. Originally planned for the garden, Nantucket’s iconic Grey Lady clouds moved us indoors — and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
The floral arrangements by Flowers on Chestnut, the exquisite menu by PPX Events, and the presence of some of Nantucket’s most respected voices made for a lunch that was equal parts warm, wise, and inspiring.
“The best Sotheby’s event to date! Thank you Bernadette and Pam for the warm welcome and hospitality. I’ll be back soon—as I didn’t have time to shop” ;
The Speakers: Expertise, Insight & Real-World Takeaways
I wanted the agents who joined me on this tour to leave with more than just beautiful photos — I wanted them to leave with real value, actionable insights, and a deeper understanding of what makes the Nantucket market distinct. Just as importantly, I wanted them to hear from voices beyond mine and to see firsthand how I approach real estate as a team effort, drawing on a trusted network of professionals.
That’s why I invited four exceptional speakers, each offering a unique perspective tied directly to luxury real estate:
- Charlie Kilvert, President of Nantucket Insurance and someone I call on regularly, shared timely insights into the rising cost and complexity of insurance, especially in light of increasing floods, fires, and natural disasters — a topic highly relevant to colleagues working in other resort and coastal markets.
- Chip Webster, one of Nantucket’s most respected architects, spoke about what luxury buyers are looking for today — from in-home gyms and wellness spaces to quiet sanctuaries for meditation and breathwork. Chip’s deep island roots and globally inspired designs made his perspective particularly meaningful.
- Elizabeth Markel Interior designer based in Boston and Nantucket, Markel Interiors., a sought-after interior designer, offered valuable thoughts on how to create long-term value by preserving a historic home rather than gutting it. She also shared her unique perspective on the Nantucket rental market — her own meticulously restored property, 7 Judith Chase Lane commands $37,000 per week, plus an additional $18,000 for the guest house.
- Bess Clarke, CEO of Nantucket Looms, highlighted how the Nantucket design aesthetic—timeless, coastal, and artisan-crafted — has found influence well beyond the island. Her perspective helped frame how style and story create lasting appeal in luxury properties.
Together, they offered a compelling and well-rounded view of what defines luxury on Nantucket today, and how we as agents can communicate that value to clients with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. The speakers were so captivating, we let go of the clock entirely.
A Grand Finale on the Water
As the afternoon unfolded, we made a brief stop at 5 Cudweed Road, a home encircled by conservation land that highlights Nantucket’s commitment to preserving open space and natural beauty.
We then concluded the day at 2 Marion Avenue in Cisco — a standout property that embodies the carefree beach lifestyle in a truly elevated, waterfront setting. Surrounded by protected conservation land with sweeping harbor views, it offered the ideal backdrop for our closing conversation. With signature cocktails in hand from Dano’s Dangerous Tequila and the sound of the water just beyond, we reflected on a day filled with inspiration, insight, and a deeper appreciation for the rare character of Nantucket’s coastline.
“Thank you so much @Bernadette Meyer. You took hosting a broker event for your feeder markets to a whole new level — a Master Class 🙌🙌🙌”
An Evening to Remember
The formal tour may have ended, but the best connections often happen around a kitchen island. That evening, I invited the group to my home at 307 Polpis Avenue for a casual dinner and informal mastermind. We shared ideas, swapped stories, opened up about our markets, and laughed late into the night. It was intimate, personal, and the perfect way to end a meaningful day.
“Touring your stunning listings — and the homes you so generously opened, including your own and your friends’ —w as truly a privilege. Your graciousness and professionalism are unmatched... I’m truly grateful for the warm connections, engaging conversations, and the sense of community you extended.”
What We Accomplished — Together
When I look back on this tour, I don’t just see beautiful homes and thoughtful programming—I see a powerful shift in perspective.
For many of the agents who joined us, this was their first real introduction to Nantucket through the lens of someone who lives, breathes, and works here every day. They didn’t just hear about the market—they experienced it. They stepped into curated homes, heard from locals who are shaping the culture, and saw firsthand the layered value that’s built into every property we toured.
We built trust. We deepened connections. And we reminded each other why we chose to work in this space — where service, story, and setting matter more than any square footage number.
Why This Day Mattered
If you're a homeowner or potential seller, I want you to know: this is how I show up for your property. Not just with glossy handouts or a social media post — but with a sense of occasion, storytelling, and reach. I understand what makes your home extraordinary, and I know how to convey that value in a way that resonates. This tour was a perfect example of how I bring properties to market — not just to be seen, but to be felt.
If you're a buyer, this day underscores how much I value your journey. The agents who joined us now have a deeper understanding of Nantucket’s neighborhoods, zoning, lifestyle nuances, and pricing trends — so when they send you to me, we begin from a place of clarity and connection. Whether you’re seeking a family retreat, investment property, or forever home, I want to help you find not just a house — but a life here.
And if you're a fellow agent, I want you to know that your referrals are safe with me. I treat them as an extension of your brand and reputation — because I know how much that matters. This tour was designed with you in mind. To show — not tell — you that your clients will be well cared for, thoughtfully guided, and warmly welcomed.
Thank You — and What’s to Come
To everyone who helped bring this vision to life—thank you. To the agents who traveled here, the homeowners who opened their doors, the speakers who gave their time and insight, and the partners who added beauty and meaning to every detail, I am endlessly grateful.
And yes, there’s more on the horizon. Think boats, champagne, oysters, art, and sun-drenched afternoons on the water. Because when you combine Nantucket with vision and creativity, the possibilities are endless.
If this experience inspired you, or if you're ready to buy, sell, or refer on Nantucket, I’d love to continue the conversation.
With deep appreciation and excitement for what’s ahead,
Bernadette Meyer
Top 100 Global Agent | Maury People Sotheby’s International Realty
508.680.4748
[email protected]
www.bernadettemeyer.com
