Known on Block Island as Amanda England, now Amanda Dervan, Amanda spent the majority of her life rooted in the island community, attending Block Island School from first through eighth grade. She later expanded her horizons at Weston High School in Connecticut before venturing into New York City to study jewelry design at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Her connection to Block Island remained constant. Throughout high school and college, Amanda returned each summer, working for Kimberly Ward while also selling her jewelry at the Block Island Farmers Market and in various local storefronts. During her college years, she co-founded Beadz Boutique in Darien, CT, a retail space that operated for over a decade.

Amanda went on to build a diverse career in retail and hospitality, working as a visual merchandiser, inventory coordinator, and café manager at Kirby and Company in Darien. She has also spent years as a manager and event coordinator at Trips’ Restaurant in Stamford, Ct. Trips’ has been her home away from home since she was 19 year old, and is proud to say she still work today. Now she does freelance Branding and Marketing, as well as the sitting CMO for Lotus Landscape INC. A high end luxury garden and landscaping company operating in both Block Island and the greater RI area.

In 2017, Amanda married her Irish born husband, Darren Dervan, and together they are raising their two daughters, Dylan (8) and Samantha (4).

Growing up between Block Island and the mainland gave Amanda a unique perspective. One that naturally evolved into what is now Simply Block Island. No matter where she was, people were drawn to her story, often asking, “You’re from Block Island?” or “I’m going—where should I go?” What began as casual conversations quickly turned into trusted recommendations, trip planning, and helping others experience the island through a local lens.

In September 2025, Amanda experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother, Patrick England. In the midst of that grief, it was the strength and support of the Block Island community that helped carry her forward. In his honor, and in celebration of a life that deserved more time, Simply Block Island is dedicated to him.