HOLIDAYS & GIVING ISSUE
Happy Holidays!
The holiday season is here, awakening our senses with the glow of twinkling lights, the aroma of fresh baking, and the familiar songs that fill the air each year. Every moment carries a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of the joy and magic we once felt as children.
Each December, I find myself cherishing time spent with loved ones—whether it’s admiring holiday lights close to home or in Dyker Heights, taking a trip into New York City to see Rockefeller Center, or wrapping presents by the tree. These simple traditions capture the spirit of the season and remind me how meaningful it is to create joyful memories with those we love before the year comes to a close.
In this issue, we’ve curated a thoughtful gift guide to help make your holiday shopping a little easier while supporting local businesses. We’ve also highlighted opportunities to give back through toy drives hosted by community partners Sheeran Real Estate and Lewandowski Chiropractic.
While this season brings joy to many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the true spirit of the holidays, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.
At Denville City Lifestyle, our mission has always been to celebrate connection— both within our community and beyond. We love hearing from our readers and discovering the stories that make Denville so special. If you have a story to share, a milestone to celebrate, or a business you’d like to introduce, we’d love to hear from you. Send us your photos and details—you might just see them featured in an upcoming issue.
For more local highlights and behind-the-scenes moments, follow us on Instagram @DenvilleCityLifestyle.
Thank you for welcoming us into your homes and hearts this year. May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving.
Happy Holidays!
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Alessandra Guarneri alessandra.guarneri@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Aster Pheonyx aster.pheonyx@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Brooke Micoletti brookemicolettiphotography@gmail.com
STAFF WRITER
Ellen S. Wilkowe wilkowe@gmail.com
INTERNS
Michelle Randazzo michellerandazzo27@gmail.com
Carina Maroldi carina.maroldi@mcvts.org
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sheeran Real Estate, Lewandowski Chiropractic, Mary Griffin/Griffin Social Studios, Mary Shadbolt, Brigitte Carucci
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
F I R S T I M P R E S S I O N S S T A R T A T T H E C U R B .
1: The first-ever Pink Witches 5K brought the community together in downtown Denville with overwhelming support! 2: Nicole of Spirit Healer Wellness and Jill Marie Kelly at Pink Witches Night Out 3: The All Styling Studio team was all smiles at Pink Witches Night Out! 4: Part of the Sheeran Real Estate team showing their support at Pink Witches Night Out! 5: Volunteers and Denville Rotary Club members at the 2nd Annual End Hunger 3.6 event
MARY GRIFFIN/GRIFFIN SOCIAL STUDIOS
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
MARY RADICSH/DENVILLE ROTARY CLUB
PETS OF THE MONTH Pepita, Rosie, and Bobby
Likes
- Bobby loves wrestling his siblings -Rosie loves playing with her siblings and being at home
- Pepita loves sunbathing and playing tug-a-war with her brother Bobby
Fun Facts
- Pepita was rescued from Tijuana
- Rosie was rescued from the Bergen County Humane Society
In celebration of our “Holidays & Giving” issue, we’re excited to feature Pepita, Rosie, and Bobby as Denville City Lifestyle’s Pets of the Month for December They are siblings at heart!
From left to right, Pepita is a 5-year-old Chihuahua/Pug mix, Rosie is a 10-month-old Pomeranian/Pug mix, and Bobby is a 3-yearold lilac merle French bulldog
“Tyler Pontier is the best and you will NOT find another realtor like him. He listens to his clients, he’s with you every step of the way, is well-connected to help meet your every need/expectation, and he keeps the information that you provide to him confidential. I recommend working with Tyler whether you want to buy, sell, or are looking for advice. He’s the whole package!” - Lan Tyler Pontier Properties work with ALL people in ALL price points with a focus on Luxury and Marketing.
BRIGITTE CARUCCI
MARY SHADBOLT
business monthly
The Dillon Garrity Foundation Promotes Life-Saving Narcan Kits for Students
The Dillon Garrity Foundation continues its life-saving mission by offering free Naloxone (Narcan®) kits to the community year-round. This holiday season, the foundation encourages parents of college students home on break to pick up a kit for them to bring back to campus. One dose of Naloxone can reverse an overdose. Call or text (973) 879-7531 for details and follow @ dillongarrityfoundation for more.
Golf Cave Launches 15% Off Gift Cards Until Christmas!
GolfCave is spreading holiday cheer with 15% off gift cards using code CHEERS15 through December 25. Conveniently located in Randolph, GolfCave offers golfers of all skill levels the opportunity to play or practice around the clock in their own private “Cave,” featuring the world-class TrackMan golf simulator. For more information, visit golfcave.com/locations/randolph
$50 Off All Sessions with Jill Marie Kelly
Jill Marie Kelly is embracing the holiday spirit with a special offer—$50 off all sessions, including mediumship, Reiki, and combination appointments, available through January 1. Contact Jill Marie Kelly at jillmariekellyllc@gmail.com or call (973) 476-0920.
Photography by Dillon Garrity Foundation
Photography by GolfCave
Photography by Jill Marie Kelly
Reneww Design’s Kat Esteves Showcases Design Insight in New Book
Kat Esteves of Reneww Design is featured in the new book She Nailed It!, a collection highlighting inspiring stories from female entrepreneurs. In her dedicated chapter, Esteves shares the evolution of her concept, The Personal Blueprint of a Home, and how her own journey shaped a design philosophy rooted in story, meaning, and authenticity. She Nailed It! is available now on Amazon.
Scan to read more
MJ Salon Offers 20% Off for First-Time Clients
Give the gift of great hair this holiday season! MJ Salon is offering 20% off for first-time clients, making it the perfect time to refresh your look or treat someone special. From precision cuts to color and treatments, their expert stylists have you covered. To book an appointment, call (973) 265-0662
Scan to read more
Secure 2025 pricing at The Oaks— make your move today!
Considering a move to The Oaks at Denville? There’s never been a better time. Make your decision before the year ends to lock in 2025 entrance fee pricing. The Oaks at Denville offers a full-service continuing care experience with luxurious senior apartments, exceptional amenities, and an active, maintenance-free lifestyle. For more information, visit oaksatdenville.org.
Scan to read more
Photography by The Oaks at Denville
Photography by MJ Salon
Guided by Gratitude
Through family, service, and philanthropy, the Sheeran Real Estate Group continues to strengthen the close-knit fabric of Denville.
ARTICLE BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE MICOLETTI, ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
“We are fulfilling a deserving child's specific Christmas wish list for parents who are unable to afford it or provide for them.”
– SHEERAN REAL ESTATE GROUP
As realtors, the Sheerans don’t just sell houses—they sell homes, the kind that hold heart and history, especially their own.
A Denville native through and through, Genevieve Sheeran and her family comprise the Sheeran Real Estate Group.
With deep roots in the community, Genevieve offers homebuyers and sellers a uniquely local perspective—one shaped by her own experiences growing up in Denville’s school system and now raising her two young children, Cillian, 4, and Grace, 2, in the Indian Lake neighborhood.
So how did the Sheeran Real Estate Group become such a pivotal part of Denville and Morris County?
The story began on the outskirts of Pittsburgh, where Genevieve’s mother, Mary, grew up. A work-related road trip brought her to Denville as a young adult, and she immediately felt a connection.
“The bustling downtown reminded her of her small Beaver County, Pennsylvania town outside the city when the steel and coal businesses were thriving,” her daughter explained.
Enter her father, Mike, a New Jersey native from Ringwood who worked in Denville and was equally taken by the community’s charm.
SHEERAN REAL ESTATE GROUP
The Sheeran Real Estate Group is based in Denville, New Jersey, and specializes in the North Jersey market. The family-run business-led by Mary, Genevieve, and John-is supported by an administrative assistant and transaction coordinator. Together, they combine deep local roots with an unmatched commitment to client care. Beyond real estate, the Sheerans are passionate about giving back, supporting initiatives like Project Playground 2.0, organizing food drives, and leading their annual toy drive for local children. Their success is built on more than sales-it's driven by heart, community, and a dedication to making Denville an even better place to call home.
The two crossed paths, planted roots, and eventually raised their family here. Fifteen years ago, Mary K Sheeran founded the business, which has become the Sheeran Real Estate Group, steadily building a trusted reputation—one now reflected on countless signs and happy homes around town.
As for Genevieve’s decision to join them, it wasn’t always the plan. She initially considered a career in social work, but soon realized her true calling still involved helping people—just in a different way.
“A lot of real estate actually is helping people,” she explained. “We have a platform that allows us to give back and connect with others.”
Giving back is more than a mission statement for the Sheeran Real Estate Group—it’s a family value. Their impact can be seen throughout town, from their involvement in Project Playground 2.0, which revitalized Gardner Field’s playground, to numerous food drives and missions over the years. The team continued that spirit of service this past summer, hosting a school supply drive that filled 60 backpacks with essentials for local students.
That same generosity now fuels their annual toy drive—a heartfelt effort that fulfills the wishes of
children facing hardships at home. The event is especially meaningful to Genevieve, as it also honors the memory of her late partner and father of her kids, Dillon Garrity, a lifelong Denville resident and former captain of the Morris Knolls Varsity Hockey Team, who passed away in 2023.
“It’s a beautiful way to honor his memory alongside the foundation we created in his name,” she explained.
The initiative partners with the Center for Family Services serving Morris, Essex & Sussex Counties, a social services organization that provides intervention specialists to support youth facing challenges such as family instability, substance use disorders, mental health struggles, foster care, and more.
“What’s special about the toy drive is that we get a list of specific children, their ages, their names, and exactly what they are asking Santa for,” she added. “And we are fulfilling a deserving child’s specific Christmas wish list for parents who are unable to afford it or provide for them.”
In addition to matching buyers with homes, Sheeran views her role as part-realtor, part-advocate.
“It’s different for each of us,” Genevieve shared. “Selling or buying a home can be very emotional.”
A realtor is on the front line of helping the client navigate their next chapter, and the ties that bind are inevitable.
“Your clients do become your friends. And it’s very rewarding to help people.”
Today, the Sheeran Real Estate Group operates as a close-knit team of three, with Genevieve working alongside her brother, John, and mother, Mary, supported by an administrative assistant and transaction coordinator. Based in Denville, they primarily serve Morris County but extend their reach across North Jersey.
Even amid shifting economic conditions, Genevieve says the market has stayed remarkably strong.
“There’s a lot of young families who just love Denville,” she revealed. “It’s still a great time to sell a home, but it’s crucial to hire the right team to represent you.”
When Genevieve and her family aren’t handing over keys, they love spending time outdoors, staying connected to their community and neighbors, and enjoying each other’s company—especially Genevieve’s two children, the “Grands,” as Mary affectionately calls them.
“Denville has such an amazing community, and we never take for granted how special it is to be a part of it.”
To donate to the Dillon Garrity Foundation Toy Drive, drop gifts off at the Sheeran Real Estate office located at 344 US-46 West in Denville by Christmas.
“A lot of real estate actually is helping people,” Genevieve explained. “We have a platform that allows us to give back and connect with others.”
Believe in Me’s full-day center-based ABA program features 1:1 support from highly trained and compassionate staff, customized behavior intervention plans, a strong focus on social skills built in throughout the entire day, parent support with daily session notes and contact with your child’s team, on-site and full-time dedicated BCBAs who provide on-going staff supervision, training and parent support sessions, and so much more! We host family inclusion events held throughout the year and also provide OT and speech therapy on-site!
www.believeinmetherapy.com 973.216.1008 | VB @believeinmetherapy 791 Rt. 10 East, Randolph, NJ 07869
you experiencing bloating, constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, or food sensitivities? These common symptoms might be your gut signaling a deeper issue. Poor gastrointestinal (GI) health is often a root cause of many chronic conditions, including some cancers. At Natural Care Holistic Health Center, we offer advanced GI MAP and Food Sensitivity (IgG) Testing. These non-invasive tests help us understand your unique digestive system, identify imbalances, and pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms. ✓ Non-invasive Testing ✓ Personalized Holistic Protocols ✓ Digestive & Immune System Support
time to stop just masking symptoms and start uncovering what’s truly going on.
Holiday Gift Guide
SHOP LOCAL IN DENVILLE AND CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF GIVING.
ARTICLE BY ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALESSANDRA GUARNERI, BROOKE MICOLETTI
TIME'S TIN CUP VINTAGE/ANTIQUES
Step into Time’s Tin Cup and uncover one-of-a-kind vintage treasures—new, curated finds arrive often, making it a perfect stop for holiday gifting.
27 Diamond Spring Rd, Denville, NJ
SWEET VINYL
Spin the perfect gift this season! Vinyl records, CDs, and music-related items make timeless presents at this local hotspot.
23 Diamond Spring Rd, Denville, NJ
SISTERS
A hometown favorite, this family-owned shop offers year-round gifting gems—including uniquely Denvillethemed treasures you won’t find anywhere else. 23 Broadway, Denville, NJ
SERGIO & CO ITALIAN SPECIALTIES
Elevate holiday gifting with authentic Italian staples like imported specialties and gourmet ingredients for the food lover in your life at this local hotspot. 28 Broadway, Denville, NJ
SNEAKER FACTORY
Step into a sneaker paradise and give the gift of fresh kicks—classic styles and must-have pairs for collectors or casual wearers, right in downtown Denville. 55 Broadway, Denville, NJ
CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
Downtown Denville and the surrounding area is home to countless family-owned small businesses. Celebrate the holiday spirit by shopping local!
AT LEWANDOWSKI CHIROPRACTIC, HEALING AND GIVING BACK GO HAND IN HAND.
Aligning Health, Heart, and Holiday Spirit
ARTICLE BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALESSANDRA GUARNERI, LEWANDOWSKI CHIROPRACTIC
The results I experienced [from a chiropractor] sparked my interest in the field.
Dr. Paul Lewandowski has made quite a few adjustments in his life.
It’s all in a day’s work for a chiropractor—especially one who has treated elite athletes, holds a post-doctoral diplomate in sports injuries, and earned a master’s degree in physical chemistry.
The magic happens at his namesake practice in Boonton Township, where state-of-the-art, computer-assisted technology analyzes the spine and precisely targets problem areas. This, complemented by other physiotherapeutic modalities such as computerized spinal decompression and non-surgical laser treatments, keeps the practice on the cutting edge of modern care.
His patients range from professional athletes to weekend warriors and those managing mobility challenges. He’s also treated countless high school and middle school athletes, with his age spectrum spanning from a 102-year-old to a two-month-old—“for colic,” he noted with a smile.
“If you have a spine, I can treat you,” he quipped.
Lewandowski’s path to chiropractic care began with his own story as an aspiring professional athlete. In high school, he was recruited by the prestigious New York Athletic Club to train and compete—a unique program where former Olympic and national-level athletes volunteer to mentor the next generation.
He later joined Saint Francis College in Brooklyn, where he swam and played water polo, competing in butterfly, individual medley, and distance freestyle events. But during his sophomore year, an injury changed the course of his life.
“Nobody could figure out my problem,” he recalled. “I continued to swim and still left college with a back problem.”
Outside of the pool, he was awarded a research fellowship from the American Diabetic Association and conducted research at Long Island College Hospital in Brooklyn, which led him into a pharmacology program. But when the curriculum’s animal research component conflicted with his values, he pivoted.
He earned a master’s degree in physical chemistry from Montclair State University, and during that time, a visit to a chiropractor for his lingering back injury changed everything.
“The results I experienced sparked my interest in the field,” he revealed.
He soon found his calling in helping others heal as he had. Graduating from New York Chiropractic College in 1984, Lewandowski launched what would become a four-decade-long career rooted in innovation, compassion, and community.
His first practice was at Central Park South, as part of the New York Athletic Club, where he treated Olympic hopefuls and professional athletes.
“I liked the facility, but I lived in Mountain Lakes and it took a long time to get to the city, only to spend a short time with the patient,” he explained.
So, he traded city skyscrapers for suburban serenity, establishing Lewandowski Chiropractic in Boonton Township, where most know him simply as ‘Dr. Paul.’
Lewandowski’s claims to fame include traveling with the U.S. Water Polo Team, a whirlwind globe-trotting venture that took him to Europe, China, and Canada.
An endurance athlete at heart, he has impressively completed nine swims around Manhattan and understands the mindset that drives his like-minded patients.
He also works across specialties when referrals are necessary, and gains referrals in return. “People should try nonsurgical options first because you can’t undo a surgery,” Lewandowski explained. “But I’m mostly able to provide the care in-house.”
With decades of experience, he now also mentors students completing externships or exploring the chiropractic field.
A thriving practice and a large blended family behind him, Lewandowski continues to serve his community with heart.
“My dad was a New York City fireman and his firehouse had a toy drive for underprivileged kids,” he said. “I would deliver toys with him and when
my sons were born, I carried on the tradition and wanted them to teach them about helping someone.”
That legacy lives on through his own toy drive, now in its 38th year, benefiting children at Saint Peter’s. He also supports JBWS by collecting toiletries and gift cards, which are discreetly distributed through anonymous drop-off stations.
During the holiday season, it’s all hands on deck—staff, volunteers, and even patients join together to spread joy throughout the community.
Lewandowski has also served as president of the board of directors for the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, has earned NJ Top-Doc recognition several years in a row, and remains a respected figure in the sports medicine field.
And in case you’re wondering—yes, he’s even treated animals. “A friend’s horse once developed an impediment after its saddle slipped,” he said. “It was limping, and once I finished adjusting the horse, the limp was gone.”
When he’s not making adjustments, swimming laps, or organizing community drives, Dr. Paul enjoys spending time with his large blended family, including his six children—three sons, two stepsons, a stepdaughter—and two grandchildren.
For Dr. Paul, chiropractic care has always been about more than alignment—it’s about connection. His commitment to helping others, both in health and in life, shines brightest during the holiday season, when giving back becomes a family tradition. In every sense, his practice is built on gratitude, service, and heart.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about Lewandowski Chiropractic, call (973) 402-1331.
Winter Simmer Magic
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN
FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES
Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 3 star anise
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.
This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.
DECEMBER 2ND
Your Big 3: Discover Your Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign
Spirit Healer Wellness | 8:30 PM
Nicole guides participants in exploring the three key points of their astrology chart—Sun, Moon, and Rising—to understand how these elements work together. Attendees should bring a mobile device with internet access and their birth details, including date, time, and location. An encore of this event is scheduled for December 7. For more information, visit SpiritHealerWellness.com
DECEMBER 6TH
Annual Christmas Tree Sale at Ayres/Knuth
Farm Foundation
25 Cooper Rd., Denville | 10:00 AM
It’s time to get in the holiday spirit! Stop by the Ayres/Knuth Farm Foundation to purchase Christmas trees, wreaths, roping, and more to support the preservation and restoration of the historic farm. For more information and more dates that sales occur, visit ayresknuth.org
DECEMBER 6TH
Christmas Bazaar
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Rockaway | 10:00 AM
Celebrate the holiday season at this festive event featuring handmade crafts, jewelry, home décor, delicious food, and a bake room filled with sweet treats. Admission is free, making it the perfect way to enjoy local vendors and holiday cheer. For details, email basamuelsen@aol.com.
DECEMBER 10TH
Christmas Cocktails & Gingerbread Creations at Ombra
Ombra Salumeria & Bar, Boonton | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a festive evening of Christmas cocktails & gingerbread house making. Led by expert mixologists, attendees will sip and learn about seasonal favorites including a Blood Orange French 75, Gingerbread Old Fashioned, and Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini—all while competing in a fun gingerbread house challenge. Light bites will be served, with dinner reservations available before or after the event.
DECEMBER 11TH
A Night of Wine & Truffle at Rosie’s Trattoria
Rosie’s Trattoria / 7:00 PM
Rosie’s Trattoria will host an evening of Italian elegance this holiday season. Guests will enjoy a delicious four-course dinner, each course enhanced with world-renowned Urbani Truffles and expertly paired with fine Italian wines. This is a one-night-only experience for true Italian food and wine lovers. For more information, visit rosiestrattoria.com
DECEMBER 11TH
Cookie Decorating Class at Art Classes with Mary Shadbolt
5 E Main St Suite 13A, Denville | 4:30 PM
Kick off the holiday season with a fun and festive cookie-decorating event! Creativity takes many forms—even cookies—and can lead to a variety of rewarding professions, including cookie design. Jennifer of JenniBakes4u returns to share her expert decorating techniques on beautifully crafted winter-themed cookies. For more info and to register, visit artclasswithmary.com
Residential Electrical Specialist
the community since 2008.
Your home deserves safe, reliable power. From new construction to renovations and repairs, trust the professionals at Anzalone Electric & Lighting LLC. NEW RESIDENTIAL
LIGHTING DESIGN AND INSTALLATION TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIRS
Give the Gift of Beauty
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 12TH
Meet Santa at the Randolph Community Center
30 Calais Road, Randolph | 5:00 PM
Experience the magic of the season at the Randolph Community Center! Families are invited to meet Santa from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM, with a sensory-friendly session from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM to ensure every child can enjoy a joyful visit. For more information, visit randolphnj.org.
DECEMBER 12TH
New Jersey’s Ballet’s The Nutcracker with New Jersey Symphony
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown | 7:30 PM
New Jersey Ballet’s beloved Nutcracker returns, captivating audiences with breathtaking dancing, dazzling special effects, and timeless holiday magic. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the New Jersey Symphony, this cherished tradition enchants both children and adults alike. For tickets and more information/other dates available, visit mayoarts.org.
DECEMBER 13TH
Holiday Craft Fair at the Rockaway Mall
Rockaway Townsquare | 10:00 AM
Kick off the holiday season at Rockaway Townsquare during the year’s busiest shopping weekends! Explore a curated selection of small and locally handmade items—from jewelry and handbags to home décor, pet products, and sweet treats—all conveniently located inside the main upper-level concourse. The craft fair also runs December 14, 20, and 21 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Want to be featured?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ DENVILLE
•
•
•
