Bridgewater, NJ September 2025 by City Lifestyle

Pivot into Your Purpose

STYLE + BEAUTY FROM COURTS TO CROWNS, IVY HARRINGTON REDEFINES STYLE AND STRENGTH.

2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Bridgewater Commons Kicked Off Summer with the Largest Chalk Mural at Chalk-a-Con this June. 2: Sophie Levin, a senior at BridgewaterRaritan High School, signed a letter of intent for Millersville University. 3: Bridgewater-Raritan High School theatre students showcased their talents on and off stage. 4-7: An unforgettable evening at The Grain House! We were so grateful to celebrate with our partners and local business community.

JULIANNE REYNOLDS PHOTOGRAPHY

The Osprey Nest began as an extension of Osprey Lane Boutique—built on a love for style, comfort, and connection. What started as a vision has grown into a space where friends become family, and every guest is welcomed with warmth and care.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or you’ve been with us from the beginning, we strive to make every experience feel like coming home. From fashion to home décor, our goal is to help you feel confident in your style and create a space that feels comfortable, strong, and uniquely yours.

With a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, The Osprey Nest is more than a store—it’s a place where shopping becomes a joy, not a task. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives. We are so grateful for your continued support and this incredible honor.

We can’t wait to welcome you in.

196 W Main Street

Somerville, NJ 08876

908-210-9888

www.theospreynest.shop

the CITY LIST

Best Home Decor Store

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

The Osprey Nest Home Decor + Gift Boutique https://theospreynest.shop/ | 908.210.9888

Design Studio of Somerville https://www.dsosdesign.com/ | 908.685.1921

Big Green Barn https://www.thebiggreenbarn.com/

The Rebecca Collection http://www.therebeccacollection.com/ | 908.221.0025

Ethan Allen - Somerville https://www.ethanallen.com | 908.725.3100

Best Consignment Shop

Revive Consignment - Somerville https://www.reviveconsign.com/ | 908.450.7416

Erby's Elite Repeat https://www.erbyseliterepeat.com/ | 973.425.1114

Once And Again Consignments https://shoponcenagain.com/ | 973.360.9600

The Alternative 908.722.4407

Incogneeto 908.722.4600

Best Kid’s Boutique

Social Butterfly Boutique https://shopsocialbutterflyboutique.com/ | 908.991.3830

Après https://www.apresnj.com/ | 908.291.8515

Baby Crossing https://babycrossing.com/ | 973.425.4080

We Kids of Flemington https://wekidsofflemington.com/ | 908.284.1844

Tadpoles to Toddlers https://www.tadpolestotoddlers.com/ | 908.766.4434

Best Closet Designer

Closet Factory https://www.closetfactory.com/locations/new-jersey/ | 908.312.5373

Sophisticated Storage Solutions Custom Closets http://www.sophisticatedstorage.com/ | 732.356.4200

Closets to Adore closetstoadore.com/ | 973.822.1212

Timeless Closets and Cabinetry https://www.timelessclosetsandcabinetry.com/ | 908.328.7004

One Day Doors and Closets

Best Home Organizer

Peaceful Home Organization https://www.peacefulhomeorganizing.com/ | 908.892.7148

MacMom Organizing https://www.macmomorganizing.com/ | 973.202.2822

Kirna Consulting and Professional Organizing https://kirnaconsulting.com/ | 973.714.7891

It's Organized https://www.its-organized.com/ | 908.301.0630

Smartly Organized https://smartlyorganized.com/ | 917.846.9953

Refined, layered, and unmistakably New Jersey in its elegance and edge.

CONCEPT

Inspired by the rich tapestry of New Jersey’s landscapes — from the coastal charm of the Jersey Shore to the sophistication of Bergen and the historic charm of Hunterdon County — this cocktail captures the essence of early fall in the Garden State. It’s a drink that marries tradition with modern flair, offering a taste of New Jersey’s diverse and stylish spirit.

GARDEN STATE GLAM

A signature cocktail for our September Style Issue

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW JERSEY CITY LIFESTYLE

INGREDIENTS

1.5 oz Bourbon (warm base, rich and grounded — like Jersey heritage)

0.75 oz Fig syrup (earthy and luxe — a nod to fall and local harvest)

0.5 oz Amontillado sherry (dry elegance — layered like a perfect trench coat)

0.5 oz Lemon juice (zippy, modern contrast)

2 dashes black walnut bitters (depth and a hint of the unexpected)

Garnish: Brûléed fig half + sprig of rosemary (stylish, dramatic, editorial)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled.

2. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.

3. Garnish with a brûléed fig half and rosemary — torch lightly for aroma and visual flair.

For more signature cocktails and recipes, follow us on Instagram: @newjerseycitylifestyle.

“STRUCTURED LIKE A BLAZER, SMOOTH LIKE SILK — THE GARDEN STATE GLAM IS YOUR SEPTEMBER IN A GLASS. IT’S FASHION SEASON, AND NEW JERSEY’S GOT STYLE TO POUR.”

As fall approaches and families prepare for packed weekends and cozy evenings, Central Jersey Exterior Cleaning is offering a one-stop solution to help homeowners keep their spaces clean, safe and stylish— without lifting a finger.

Nick Berezansky, owner of the rebranded Central Jersey Exterior Cleaning, launched the company in 2021 after nearly two decades in the commercial landscaping industry. Originally operating as Hidden Valley Outdoors, the name change reflects a clearer mission and geographic focus.

“There was a lot of confusion about what we did,” Berezansky says. “Now, people see the name and immediately understand we’re all about exterior home care—roof to patio and everything in between.”

The company provides a wide range of services, including house and roof soft washing, gutter cleaning and guards, window washing, wood restoration, paver sealing, and screen repair. In addition to year-round maintenance, Berezansky is also leaning into the season ahead with offerings in fall porch décor and holiday lighting.

“We’re really highlighting fall porch setups this year,” he shares. “It’s something I did commercially for years—lobby displays, HOA entranceways, even spooky Halloween themes. Now we’re bringing that creativity to homeowners.”

Clients can choose from several décor packages, with options including hay bales, corn stalks, mums, pumpkins and gourds. The displays are tailored to fit porches large and small, with the ability to scale up for columns, staircases or entryways.

“It’s one more thing families don’t have to worry about,” Berezansky notes. “Fall is busy—sports, school, work. Let us handle the decorating so you can enjoy the season.”

Beyond aesthetics, Berezansky is also focused on preventative home maintenance, especially as cooler weather nears.

“Gutter cleaning is a big one in the fall,” he explains. “Nobody wants to be up on a ladder during a storm clearing out leaves. That’s why we developed our peace-of-mind program.”

The company’s subscription maintenance plan includes quarterly gutter cleanings, house washing, window and screen cleaning, and dryer vent service—all spread out over 12 monthly payments. Highertier plans add furniture cleaning, all-natural tick and mosquito control, and even interior window washing. CONTINUED >

Nick Berezansky

“It’s all about consistency and budgeting,” Berezansky notes. “You get scheduled visits, trusted technicians, and a cleaner, safer home year-round.”

He’s also quick to point out that regular maintenance isn’t just about appearance— it’s about protection. Insurance companies are increasingly scrutinizing how well homes are cared for, especially when it comes to roofs and gutters.

“We’ve seen people get claims denied because their roof looked like a garden,” he says. “Maintenance matters. It keeps your investments functioning and protected.”

Looking ahead, Berezansky hopes to grow his team and expand deeper into Middlesex, Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Within five years, the goal is to grow to 1,000 clients with dedicated crews assigned to each homeowner for a more personalized touch.

“I want people to feel confident,” he shares. “When Mrs. Smith calls, she knows exactly who’s coming and what they’re doing. We want to make life easier.”

From seasonal décor to stress-free home upkeep, Central Jersey Exterior Cleaning is poised to be a fall essential for homeowners looking to refresh their homes and reclaim their time.

CENTRAL JERSEY EXTERIOR CLEANING

Services Offered:

– House & Roof Soft Washing

– Gutter Cleaning & Gutter Guards

– Window & Screen Cleaning

– Deck & Wood Restoration

– Paver Sanding & Sealing

– Solar Panel Cleaning

– Seasonal Porch Décor & Holiday Lighting

– All-Natural Tick & Mosquito Control

Phone: (609) 255-7143

Website: centraljerseyexteriorcleaning.com

COLLECTIVE giving. real local IMPACT.

What happens when hundreds of women come together with a shared mission to give back? At Impact100 Garden State, the answer is clear: meaningful change—driven by compassion, collaboration, and collective purpose.

Part philanthropic force, part leadership incubator, this dynamic nonprofit is redefining what it means to give back. By bringing women together to pool their financial resources and award significant community grants, Impact100 Garden State transforms individual generosity into large-scale impact. The result: a ripple effect that touches lives across northern New Jersey — one vote, one voice, and one powerful movement at a time.

Founded on the belief that philanthropy should be accessible and participatory, the organization empowers each member with an equal voice in where the funding goes. Every woman who contributes $1,000 annually becomes part of a larger decision-making body that selects local nonprofit recipients through a democratic voting process.

“It’s an incredible model of collective giving,” says Celeste Campos, who became president of the organization in July 2024. “Every woman has a voice. It’s not just about writing a check—it’s about being part of the decision-making process and seeing the direct result of your involvement in the community.”

Impact100 Garden State

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLOMY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Campos joined Impact100 Garden State in 2023 and was immediately struck by the energy and purpose of the women involved. “It’s rare to find a group that is so mission-driven, yet so inclusive,” she shares. “I knew right away I wanted to be more involved.”

Today, Campos is focused on broadening the organization’s reach and fostering a more diverse and inclusive membership. One of her main goals is to recruit younger women and nonprofit professionals who bring fresh perspectives and lived experiences to the table. To remove barriers to entry, the group has established a fellowship program for women who may find the $1,000 membership fee prohibitive.

“The fellowship has allowed us to open the door to women who are deeply passionate about service but might not otherwise be able to join,” Campos explains. “It’s one more way we’re staying true to our mission of empowerment.”

Founded in 2013, the Garden State chapter was the first of its kind in New Jersey and serves a five-county area: Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, and Union. Since its founding, the chapter has awarded $4 million in grants, supporting organizations that address critical community needs ranging from education and public health to food insecurity and youth services.

Two signature events serve as the cornerstone of the organization’s calendar. The highly anticipated “Big Give” took place on June 11. In the previous two weeks, seven nonprofit finalists had presented their grant proposals via video and narrative to the full membership Based on member votes, four of those finalists received $100,000 each, and the remaining three were awarded $10,000 grants.

This month, the group will host its annual membership kickoff event on Sept. 25 at the Fairleigh Dickinson University mansion. The evening will include a keynote discussion led by speakers from Magee-Womens Research Institute on women’s health, along with plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and grow with fellow members.

Beyond grant-making, Campos is also passionate about the sustainability of the organization itself. Succession planning and leadership development are top priorities as Impact100 Garden State continues to grow and evolve.

“We want to ensure that this organization continues to thrive well into the future,” she notes. “Empowering women and building community is what it’s all about.”

For more information visit impact100gardenstate. org or contact info@impact100gardenstate.org.

WHERE DREAM HAIR MEETS CONSCIOUS BEAUTY

o p r o t e c t i n g t h e p l a n e t w h i l e m a k i n g y o u f e e l l i k e y o u r b e s t s e l f W e b e l i e v e b e a u t y b e l o n g s t o e v e r y o n e A l l t e x t u r e s , a l l i d e n t i t i e s , a l l s t o r i e s a r e w e l c o m e h e r e

W h e t h e r y o u ' r e e m b r a c i n g y o u r n a t u r a l c u r l s g o i n g b o l d w i t h c o l o r o r c h a s i n g t h a t d r e a m h a i r c u t y o u ’ v e b e e n p i n n i n g f o r m o n t h s w e v e g o t y o u

IVY HARRINGTON

Miss New Jersey USA 2025 shows it’s never too late to shine.

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS

PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSIELYN PALUMBO, CARLOS VELEZ, ANTHONY M. GOMES

When Ivy Harrington was crowned Miss New Jersey USA 2025, she didn’t just claim a title—she affirmed a journey. At 30 years old, Harrington made history as the oldest titleholder the state has ever crowned, and with it, she’s redefining the narrative around beauty, purpose, and perseverance.

But for Harrington, the victory is just one moment in a much longer story—one that spans basketball courts, personal loss, self-discovery, and ultimately, public service.

Born and raised in Neptune, New Jersey, Harrington spent her college years at Morgan State University in Baltimore, where she played Division I basketball on a full athletic scholarship while majoring in broadcast journalism. It was there, in the quiet of her dorm room, that she stumbled across the Miss USA competition on TV—and something clicked.

“I remember watching in 2016 and again in 2017 when two African-American women from D.C. won back-to-back,” she says. “It wasn’t even the idea of winning that drew me in—it was seeing someone who looked like me succeed in that space. It planted a seed.”

Ivy Harrington and Gina Mellish

That spark of curiosity grew into research. She found that many women in media—Oprah, Diane Sawyer, Olivia Culpo—had pageantry in their backgrounds. So, she took a leap. By early 2018, she had connected with her pageant coach, Ciera Nicole of Crown Bound Pageant Consulting and began to train, balancing the intensity of the stage with the discipline she developed in sports.

Her first competition came in November 2019, just two months after the loss of her father. “It was chaotic. I was grieving. But pageantry gave me something constructive to focus on,” she shares.

That year, she didn’t win—but she didn’t stop. In 2022, she returned and placed in the top five. Then again in 2024. When the Miss Universe Organization lifted its age restrictions, allowing older contestants to compete, Harrington knew she had one last shot.

“I thought, ‘Do I need a grown-up hobby? Am I really still twirling at 30?’” she jokes. “But I couldn’t ignore that competitive fire in me. The only way I wasn’t going to win was if I didn’t show up.”

In 2025, she showed up—and won.

Alongside the crown, Harrington launched her mentorship program, MVP—Most Valuable Pivot. It’s built around one message: helping female student-athletes develop a personal identity beyond their sport. Through workshops, coaching, and school visits, she guides girls in seeing themselves as more than jersey numbers.

“Taking off that uniform can feel like losing part of who you are,” she notes. “I want them to understand their worth isn't tied to a scoreboard. They’re allowed to pivot. They’re allowed to start over.”

Pageantry, she says, shares a surprising amount with athletics: strategy, mental toughness, and physical endurance. It’s why she’s currently working on a campaign to bridge those two worlds—an idea to host an “MVP Pageant” with professional male athletes walking through the same competitions she does, from Q&As to stage presence.

“I want people to understand that this isn’t just about looking pretty,” she says. “It’s work. It’s grit. You’re literally putting yourself on a stage to be judged. That’s bravery.”

As she prepares for the national Miss USA competition later this year, Harrington feels focused—not frantic. “It’s funny. I’m not even nervous,” she explains. “I think that’s what happens when you finally know who you are.”

Her calm confidence has been supported by mentors, including Gina Mellish, Miss New Jersey USA 2020, who helped fine-tune everything from wardrobe to brand messaging. But Harrington’s most profound inspiration came from the late Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019.

Meet the chef and owner of Brunch By De Martino.

“Cheslie was strong, athletic, intelligent—and real. She showed me the power of representation. But her tragic death also reminded me how important it is to protect your peace,” she shares. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

That sentiment grounds her reign. She’s clear that her goal isn’t fame—it’s service.

“I want people to feel seen when they meet me,” she notes. “To take what they need, to feel like they belong too. This is about empowering others to find their voice, to pivot into their own purpose.”

Ten years ago, in 2014, Harrington tweeted that she dreamed of being on a magazine cover. This fall, that dream comes true—backed not by luck, but by years of hard work, heartache, and resilience.

“There’s no expiration date on your goals,” she explains. “This journey has taught me that it’s never too late to try something new, to start over, or to chase what lights you up.”

She smiles and sums it up simply: “Pivot into your purpose.”