We Are Upstate New York with Sean B. Nutley

Meet Sean B. Nutley: The Hudson Valley’s Official Mayor of Cool

By inside + out | January 26, 2025

We are Upstate New York with Sean B. Nutley. When you hear his name, it’s often associated with exciting events in the area: a new restaurant or club opening, a fun-filled dinner at a fabulous Hudson Valley home, news of cool businesses moving to the area, or the latest hot real estate listing he has brought to market. Sean is your go-to guy for staying informed about the most remarkable happenings in the Hudson Valley.

When we first met Sean, our friends introduced him as the “Mayor” of Kingston. Although he isn’t the actual Mayor, he certainly has his finger on the pulse of this vibrant community. Sean also curates and produces a series of the area’s hottest events like Stockade Faire (10.7.25), Catskills Roller Disco (6.14.25) and Disco Chalet (1.31.25 + 2.1.25). Here’s a peek at past Disco Chalet events: Here, Here and Here. A recent post on Hudson Modern’s Instagram page perfectly described Sean:

If you know Sean, and who in the area doesn’t? You know that a good time is never far from where you’ll find him.

Looking for a great event in the Catskills? Check out this must-attend Disco Party before it sells out. You can still get tickets to HERE. Disco Chalet is the brainchild of Sean B, Nutley and Laura Lynn Leland – a seasoned DJ and lover of winter.

FRIDAY January 31st

SPECTACLE | At ASSEMBLY in Kingston NY | 7PM – Midnight
Featuring: Midnight Magic, Tegel Boys, Hazy Pockets

SATURDAY February 1st

GRAND SOIRÈE | At INNESS in Accord NY | 7PM – 2AM
Featuring DJs: Justin Strauss, Lauren Murada

2025 Disco Chalet Grand Soiree 2025

Let’s learn more about Sean B. Nutely as he shares his love of community, snowboarding down the slopes of Windham and dancing the night away under illuminated disco balls throughout the Hudson Valley in our Exclusive Interview. Enjoy!

Where are you from originally, and how did you end up in the Hudson Valley?

I was born on Staten Island and spent much of my early years enjoying the simple island life and the “big life” of New York City. When I was five, my parents purchased land in Accord and built a small “shack” on the property– without running water and an outhouse. Our “shower” was a bar of soap and the High Falls lower waterfall!

I spent my early twenties in the East Village of New York City. While going to St. Johns University in Queens for Communications, I discovered New York City nightlife and got a position at the door of Area Night Club. Upstate was “re-discovered” one early morning, sometime around 1986. No after-hours parties were going on, so a group of friends and I decided to drive Upstate and party in the cabin in the woods – a new chapter opened.

That trip opened the door for more and more visits. My friends and I began making regular trips Upstate, crashing in a cabin and going to Primetime Dance Club in Highland. I started to sense a scene developing in the area, so I moved the party upstate more permanently.

You are prolific in the community, producing a series of hot and well-attended events like the annual StockadeFaire, Catskills Roller Disco, Disco Chalet events, and now Real Estate. What is the most rewarding thing about these ventures?

The most rewarding part of organizing these events is building community. The Hudson Valley is home to so many incredible artists and tastemakers, and it’s always amazing to see the diversity of this area come together under one roof.

Are there any other events that you’re working on for this year?

Laura Lynn and Clarke Leland and myself are currently in production prepping for Disco Chalet ’25 at the new Assembly on January 31st & Inness on February 1st. It’s an annual event like no other. In previous years, we’ve called it an “après ski soirée,” where guests show up in their finest vintage (and vintage-inspired) disco and ski attire. We’re proud to host a lively dance floor fueled by curated music and lighting from world-renowned DJs and visual artists.

You’ve been in real estate for a few years now at Hudson Modern. What inspired that journey?

It was a pleasant surprise! Zev Eisenberg (Wolf + Lamb) played a key role in encouraging me to get into the business. I was already familiar with much of what was happening in Kingston, so this felt like a natural next step. Plus, I love helping my friends and local creative businesses find their footing here, especially as more people become curious about the opportunities the area has to offer.

Tell us more about Hudson Modern.

We’re a boutique agency with a finger on the pulse of trends and the unique needs of our clients. Many people come to this area looking for serenity and a connection to nature, as well as a vibrant, culturally rich community. We know where to look.

What about the Hudson Valley makes it unique to live + work here?

Incredible artists, amazing parties, good eats and beautiful scenery. What more could you want?

What are some of your favorite places and things to do in Upstate NY?

Snowboarding at Windam Mountain House, enjoying cocktails at Stockade Tavern, seeing Drew Frankel’s Impact Concerts at Arrowood, and finding secret swimming holes on hikes.