Influencer: Jennifer Scappatura

This former style editor traded the Big Apple for growing sustainable oysters in Quonochontaug Pond

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How did your business  Quonnie Siren Oysters begin?

My love for oysters began as a child. My grandfather’s favorite escape was the iconic Grand Central Station Oyster Bar. I will never forget eating my first oyster. It was instant love, shock, and wow all at once! And so it all began…

 

What was it like starting out as one of the few women in the oyster farming industry?

In Rhode Island we are privileged to have an oyster community filled with remarkably helpful fellow farmers. We value the importance of symbiotically coexisting.

 

How does what you do today relate to your past life as style editor at Martha Stewart Living magazine?

During my time at Martha Stewart Living I learned that perfection matters and creating your own path makes all the difference. No matter what obstacles life throws at you, there is always a way to overcome.

 

What are some of your favorite small women-owned businesses in Rhode Island?

My fellow ocean farmer, Catherine Puckett (known locally and lovingly as Oyster Wench) is incredible; she runs a business farming quahog clams, scallops, oysters, and kelp. For clothing, I recommend checking out Christina’s Ltd in Westerly. I always find something for myself or for my daughters. And for books, I love Alexandra Lehmann’s Charlestown store, Books on the Pond. I could spend hours in there!

 

Where can people find your oysters?

It depends on the time of the year, but here are some markets that stock Quonnie Sirens Oysters: The Breachway Grill in Charlestown; George’s of Galilee, Narragansett; Belmont Market, Wakefield; and in Westerly at Dunns Corners Market and The Haversham Tavern.

 

How do you like to enjoy oysters best?

Raw and naked on the half shell is my absolute favorite! On cold nights, roasted oysters are a constant craving I cannot deny myself.

 

Quonochontaug Pond, Charlestown • @QuonnieSirenOyster

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