My name is Maria Philippis and I live here in the hamlet of Port Ewen. I’m originally from Long Island, but have spent most of my adult life here in Ulster County. I studied at Parson’s School of Design and SUNY New Paltz, and have a BFA in Metalsmithing.

I grew up in a restaurant family, and have worked in that industry to support my antiques and travel habits. In 2010, I opened my first restaurant, Boitson’s, and later I opened KOVO, both in Uptown Kingston. During the pandemic I decided to retire from my restaurant career. In February of 2024, I  returned to my true love of antiques and design (with a little coffee thrown in, for good measure). A lifelong collector and forager of old stuff, I opened my first shop, Cakewalk, in Rosendale in 2003. I’ve also sold antiques in several multi dealer shops in the Hudson Valley, on Ebay and online. I am excited to combine all of my passions into the Ball & Claw.