Heritage Hospitality Press RELEASE

NEWPORT, RI – November 10, 2025

Heritage Group today announced the formation of Heritage Hospitality through the strategic combination of Audrain Hospitality and the acquisition of Glorious Affairs Catering, creating Southern Rhode Island's premier full-service catering and event planning company.

The newly formed Heritage Hospitality unites two exceptional brands that have defined high-end event services in Newport County. Glorious Affairs brings over 25 years of experience as Rhode Island's leading boutique caterer, serving the region's most prestigious venues, discerning clientele,  and exclusive private events throughout Aquidneck Island. Audrain Hospitality has distinguished itself over the past five years executing everything from intimate backyard gatherings to large-scale bespoke events, including Audrain Concours and Motor Week, The Ocean Race, St. Michaels Gala, Newport Art Museum Gala, 12 Metre World Champions Award Dinner, multiple events for the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and events for prominent Newport families and organizations.

"For over 25 years, our commitment at Glorious Affairs has been unwavering. Every client deserves the most exacting standards and personalized attention, regardless of the event," said Barbara Behan Howlett, owner of Glorious Affairs. "Joining the Heritage Hospitality platform allows us to elevate that commitment even further. We now have greater resources to serve our clients while maintaining the boutique, detail-oriented approach that has always defined us. I'm excited about what we can accomplish together."

"This combination creates something truly unique for our region, a catering company with the versatility to execute any vision, at any scale, with the same commitment to excellence," said Matthew Lyons, spokesperson for Heritage Hospitality. "Whether you're planning an intimate family celebration or a 500-person gala with premium plated service, Heritage Hospitality has the experience, creativity, and resources to bring your vision to life."

Heritage Hospitality will leverage deep complementary strengths: Glorious Affairs' quarter-century of market relationships, award-winning reputation, and operational expertise under owner Barbara Behan Howlett's leadership, combined with Audrain Hospitality's proven versatility; from upscale casual gatherings to white-glove affairs, under the direction of Mitchell Laurienzo. The integration creates expanded capacity and range while maintaining the personalized service and meticulous attention to detail both brands are known for. Barbara Behan Howlett and Mitchell Laurienzo will lead sales and operations for Heritage Hospitality going forward.

Versatility Meets Excellence

What sets Heritage Hospitality apart is its unique ability to serve the full spectrum of events with equal expertise. The company can deliver elevated casual experiences, including a fleet of gourmet food trucks for backyard weddings or creative comfort food for family gatherings, alongside formal luxury events featuring multi-course plated dinners and premium ingredients. Every event, regardless of style or budget, receives the same creative energy, locally-sourced ingredients, and thoughtful execution.

Continuity and Expertise

The entire Glorious Affairs leadership team will continue with Heritage Hospitality, ensuring seamless service for existing clients. Barbara Behan Howlett, who purchased Glorious Affairs in 2007 and built it into an award-winning operation, will remain integral to the company's client-focused approach, maintaining existing client relationships and ensuring continuity of the excellence they have come to expect. Executive Chef Stephen Donovan, with three decades of fine dining  experience and a commitment to locally-sourced ingredients, will continue in his role and with  its many seasoned and dedicated staff members, Glorious Affairs will continue to operate with the same high standards of service.

Mitchell Laurienzo, who leads the Audrain Hospitality platform, brings decades of hospitality experience growing up on Aquidneck Island working for local restaurants and institutions, combined with expertise gained from his career with the Hyatt Corporation. Alongside Mitchell will be the full breadth and depth of the team formerly of Audrain Hospitality, including Heritage Group Executive Chef Carmine Mottola and his full culinary team which have the ability to customize menus to the preferences and needs of every customer.

Award-Winning Foundation

Glorious Affairs has earned significant industry recognition, including The Knot Best of Weddings for eight consecutive years, WeddingWire's Couples' Choice award for four years, and Newport Wedding Magazine's Best Caterer of Newport 2018. The company has also demonstrated deep community commitment, annually catering major fundraisers for newportFILM and Aquidneck Land Trust while supporting Child and Family Services, Salvation Army, and local public schools.

From intimate family gatherings to grand-scale celebrations, Heritage Hospitality is designed to meet clients wherever they are—with comprehensive planning, culinary excellence, and seamless execution from concept to completion.

About Heritage Hospitality

Heritage Hospitality is Southern Rhode Island's premier full-service catering and event planning company, serving clients across Newport County and beyond. With over 25 years of combined experience, award-winning culinary programs featuring locally-sourced ingredients, and unmatched versatility in event execution, Heritage Hospitality creates exceptional experiences for gatherings of any style or scale—from backyard food truck celebrations to formal galas.