Issuu

The

Style Issue

LIVIN G H O LLY WOU LD ST YLE WH ERE INSPI RED DESIGN M EETS ST YLISH OUTD O O R LIV I NG

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

A Legacy of Comfort and Quality Since 1953 For over 70 years, WarmAire has proudly served the community with expert HVAC solutions and the personal touch only a family-owned business can offer. We deliver reliable heating and cooling systems built for lasting comfort because to us, every customer is part of the WarmAire family.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Editor When we think of style, clothing is often the first thing that comes to mind. But style is so much bigger than what's hanging in your closet. It's reflected in the pieces you collect, the spaces you design, the gardens you nurture, and the details that make everyday life feel a little more beautiful. This month, we're highlighting local businesses that prove exceptional style can be found in every corner of our community. Don’t you love it when art and fashion collide? Hollywould Studios in Boonton is a prime example of this superb mashup. From vintage to punk to pop culture, artist Holly Suzanne Rader creates pieces of art that transcend centuries of fashion and are truly her own. The best part? She teaches classes in her signature style so you can reach your full creative potential. We believe that the most exquisite art is found in nature. Particularly in your own backyard. Jewelry designer Danielle Merzatta has been creating stunning pieces inspired by nature found both locally and beyond. Her enchanting store located in Morristown showcases how the beauty around us is the ultimate inspiration. And what about your actual backyard? Well, that deserves its own style. Kohut and Sons Landscaping takes your own private oasis to the next level. Owner John Kohut truly creates with beautiful design in mind. Nothing reflects your own personal style like the place you live. What would a style issue be without fashion? Francesca Laurenzi, owner of Quality Consignments in Boonton, guides us through upgrading your ordinary jeans for the fall transition. Local influencer Lauren Moran Mills models three looks that take you from everyday to extraordinary nights. No matter your stage in life, you always want to feel like the best version of yourself. Whether it’s mom life or business casual, dressing your best for each occasion can give you an instant mood boost. Influencer Felisha Lynch takes us through her thoughts on staying true to yourself no matter what. As you turn these pages, I hope you're inspired to look a little closer at the creativity that surrounds us every day. Behind every business is someone who took a chance on an idea, honed a craft, and found a way to make our community more beautiful. Here's to supporting local, discovering something unexpected, and embracing your own unique sense of style—wherever you find it.

ALISON LUKIN, EDITOR @EASTERNMORRISCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Kim Cera | kim.cera@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Alison Lukin | Alison.Lukin@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Jamie Johnson | jamie@officiallysocial.com INTERN

Siena Kessler CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Felisha Lynch, Siena Kessler, Ellen Wilkowe, Bri Rooks C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Donna Fisk, Barbora Hindson

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Eastern Morris City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Eastern Morris area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Eastern Morris City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

18 Featured

24 36

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Living Hollywould Style

Local Artist Holly Suzanne Rader blends fashion, color, and community

Jewelry Inspired by Nature

Merzatta's handcrafted jewelry captures organic beauty, personal stories, and the art of noticing everyday inspiration.

Inspired Design Meets Outdoor Living For 50 years, Kohut & Son has redefined outdoor living through exceptional landscape design

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

City List

Must See ARTS + CULTURE

Local Limelight SHOPPING

Gift Guide SHOPPING

Open House HOME + DESIGN

Artist’s Palette HOME + DESIGN

Trend Setter LIFE + CULTURE

Fashion Forward SHOPPING

Realty Report REAL ESTATE

Events

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

On the Cover Art piece by Holly Suzanne Rader based on a photograph taken in 1928 by famed British photographer Cecil Beaton of his sister, Nancy. This piece hangs in Hollywould Studios on Main Street in Boonton. Photography: Donna Fisk

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

STEP INTO A NEW

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city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

LAUREN MILLS

5 LAUREN MILLS

BARBARA FREDA

LAUREN MILLS

THOMAS ZARZECKI

LAUREN MILLS

1: Todd and Boonton Rec Director Tracy at Boonton movie night 2: Boonton High School board at Ombra on Main Street in Boonton 3: Captain America at the Ellie Strong Fundraiser at the Boonton Elks Lodge 4: Holly Manor Center served as quarterly sponsor for Morris County Chamber Health & Wellness Forum 5: Jackie and Jose from Chili Willie’s with Lauren Mills 6: APTA Championship sponsored by Land Rover. José Salazar, Hayes Miller, Eric Ruby, Alvaro Regalado. 7: Attendees at the Boonton High School Graduation

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ E A S T E R N M O R R I S C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Book Your Next Party at Glassworks There’s always a good reason to gather with family, friends, or colleagues, and Glassworks can accommodate any occasion. Invite your guests to a “Crafting Party” in our fun studio, where everyone can make a unique piece of glass art. Our studio associates provide assistance, guidance, and instruction throughout your event. We offer parties for kids and adults, school field trips, and corporate events across a wide range of budgets. Visit www.umakeglass.com for more information.

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EDELMAN Color & Design Your home should feel like a true reflection of yourself — yet bringing that vision to life can feel overwhelming. At EDELMAN Color & Design, Rona Edelman guides clients through a curated design journey that feels effortless, personal, and uniquely theirs. New this season: Guided Design Sessions—flexible blocks of design time offering expert support with mood boards, color and material selections, sourcing, and more. To learn more, schedule a free 20-minute discovery call at edelmancoloranddesign.com.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

PICKS FOR

BER

’S TOP

BU S NE

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.

CITY LIST

SE PT

the

R OU

Best Home Decor Store Furniture Revival Studio https://www.furniturerevival-studio.com/ | 973.768.5075 Big Green Barn https://www.thebiggreenbarn.com/ | 973.271.9127 South Street Gardens https://www.southstreetgardens.com/ | 973.206.0116 Garden Cottage https://www.gardencottage.com/ | 973.425.0949 British Home Emporium https://britishhomeemporium.com/ | 973.443.0303

Best Vintage Stores Time's Tin Cup Vintage https://www.ttcvintage.com/ | 973.224.4661 Market Street Mission Thrift Store https://www.marketstreet.org/thrift-store/ | 973.538.0427

Want to suggest a monthly pick? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/E ASTERNMORRIS

C I T Y LIST

2nd STREET Morristown https://2ndstreetusa.com/ | 973.638.2250 Encore Thrift Shop https://www.stpetersmorristown.org/encore-thrift-shop | 973.240.8000 Bargain Box Thrift Shop https://www.wammc.org/bargain-box | 908.766.0745

KNOLL COUNTRY CLUB AND CATERING

With two spacious buildings to choose from, you’ll have the flexibility to host any event up to 500 guests. Each building boasts stunning views of our courses, a large dance floor, and a dedicated team ready to serve you perfect for weddings, large corporate gatherings, baby showers, etc.

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East Building 12 Knoll Rd Lake Hiawatha NJ 07034

LIVING

Hollywould ARTICLE BY SIENA KESSLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA FISK

STYLE

Local Artist Holly Suzanne Rader blends fashion, color, and community Step inside Hollywould Studios and it’s immediately clear — this isn’t a space that holds back. Different colors, fabrics, and textures fill the place, leaving no corner untouched. Located along Main Street in Boonton, this vibrant studio is part gallery, part workspace, reflecting the brilliant mind behind it all: artist and owner Holly Suzanne Rader. This year marks a major milestone for the studio. “I started in 2016, so now it’s my tenth anniversary,” she said. Rader’s path into art began in what she describes as a “hyper-creative” childhood, where even her bedroom walls became an evolving collage. After studying painting at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including time at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), she moved beyond traditional artistry, developing a signature mixed-media style that incorporates vintage imagery, layered materials and intricate embellishments. Today, her studio is more than a place to create. Rader has built a space that invites others in, building a community rooted in self-expression and imagination.

WHAT LED YOU TO ART AND OPENING YOUR STUDIO IN BOONTON?

“I’ve always been an artist. My parents saw that and put me in art school. I went the traditional route as a portrait painter in oil, with a minor in dance — there’s a lot of that influence in my art, like ballerinas, tutus, tulle.

Going to grad school was more about deciding what you could make that would shake the art world and how you were going to stand out. It’s where I found my style.”

HOW DID YOU TRANSITION INTO COLLAGING?

“I studied abroad in France, and that’s when I stopped painting portraits and started painting things that represent the human being, specifically women. When I graduated, I was ready to do something different. Most of the women I use in my art are portraits from the silent film era or are fairly unknown. I like older faces and ones with more mystery because I’m interested in putting my own spin on them.”

WHAT DOES YOUR PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

“My materials come from everywhere — art supplies stores, antique stores — and I have a bead supplier I rely heavily on. I buy everything from kids’ craft beads to fine crystals. I also pre-paint a lot of my papers with spray paint or splatter paint. I’m rarely painting directly on canvas. That way I have more freedom with composition and arrangement.”

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY IN YOUR STUDIO LOOK LIKE?

“I’m working on my own art or my commissions. I have a gallery in New Orleans that represents me. I have a showing in September that I am getting ready for. That’s what I do Monday through Thursday. CONTINUED >

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

“I’ve always been an artist. My parents saw that and put me in art school." S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E AST E R N M O R R I S

"Most of the women I use are portraits from the silent film Friday through Sunday I’m open to the public. Sometimes people come in, sometimes they don’t. Workshops are booked privately.”

YOUR WORK BLENDS FASHION AND ART — HOW DO YOU SEE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TWO?

“I’ve always loved fashion, but I didn’t want to be a part of the circus. I grew up watching runway shows with my mom, and I was more interested in the colors, textures, patterns, and the artistry. I wanted to express myself without having to worry about sewing technology, sizing, or creating a wearable collection.”

WHERE DID THE NAME “HOLLYWOULD” COME FROM?

“Well, I’m Holly, and it’s a play on Hollywood. I tend to pick early actresses, but I also have moxie. I don’t hold back, so ‘would’ makes sense. I also wanted to brand myself so I could sell my art online. For my logo, I wrote in white paint on a piece of black paper lying on the floor. Even the paint drips and splatter are authentic.”

HOW DID TEACHING BECOME PART OF YOUR WORK?

“I started teaching down the shore in Neptune, and then I moved up here. I taught kids first, and then the adults wanted to do it too. But there is no difference in my teaching style. I talk to the kids the same way I talk to the adults. The kids need less help than the adults, I find.”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START CREATING ART ZINES (SMALL, SELF-PUBLISHED BOOKLETS)?

“In the ‘90s we made them in high school before the internet. That’s how we got our art out there. This winter, it was a bit dead, and I needed to do something to bring awareness not just to me but the whole Main Street of Boonton. We’re a community that helps each other. I have a high schooler that works for me, and she is the music editor; she makes playlists that go on it. We feature the bookstore next door, and she’ll recommend CONTINUED >

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

era or are fairly unknown. I like older faces with more mystery because I'm interested in putting my own spin on them.”

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books. I have a friend who’s a poet, and she submits her poetry. I’ve had another local artist submit their artwork. I self-publish it so I can put in what I want.”

WHAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?

“I sit and stare a lot. It’s not a glamorous process — it’s a lot of mundane work. When I’m making art, it’s a complete mess because I can’t be concerned when I’m cutting paper to pick up the scraps because I work fast.”

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR CAREER?

“Inspiring other artists to pursue this as a career. I’ve had a couple of kids go to SCAD after interning with me. Just seeing that is a full-circle moment, being an example for them. There are a lot of artists trying to do this full-time; I don’t ever see it as competition. I see it as we need more.”

WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR WORK AND YOUR STUDIO?

“That it’s possible to be a female entrepreneur making a living from creating art. I want people to take away that this isn’t a hobby — this is what I do. I make what I want to see, and if others get it, they get it.” https://hollywouldstudios.bigcartel.com/

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

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JEWELRY Inspired BY NATURE, Crafted THROUGH Meaningful MOMENTS Merzatta's handcrafted jewelry captures organic beauty, personal stories, and the art of noticing everyday inspiration. ARTICLE BY ALISON LUKIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BARBORA HINDSON Walking into Merzatta on Cattano Avenue in Morristown is something special. And I mention the name of the street intentionally. Strolling through this tucked-away neighborhood is a quietly adventurous experience. It’s charming and private, and you know all those out-of-the-way special places are located somewhere like here. “It’s an odd little shop,” owner Danielle Merzatta says fondly of her jewelry store. Growing up in Morristown, she values her neighbors and the people who have been with her along the way. The Morristown location is really made by the fabric of people who come to Cattano Avenue. And it’s her ability to observe, notice, and internalize that makes her jewelry so incredibly unique. She creates moments that are sentimental. You may not realize you’ve lived those same moments until you recognize the shape of a pinecone or texture of coral in one of her designs. She explains, “Art begins with noticing. In the community you’re in, you are the noticer. Artists are wired for that.” Danielle and her husband, Chris, started their careers working together on a large-scale architectural build on the island of Mustique in the Grenadines. “While we worked on the island, we curated this collection of things, just like you can’t resist a seashell in your pocket.” After returning home to the U.S. to have their daughter, they traded a job site for a dining room table. Danielle says, “When you’re in an apartment on a dining room table, it’s not quite the same as when you’re in a university workshop with full-sized equipment. Everything gets smaller. You’re not building airplanes on your kitchen table.”

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | S HOPPIN G

It was a friend’s request for custom wedding rings that began the Merzatta’s journey into jewelry. “We were on the art fair circuit for ten years. We drove all over the country with a minivan full of stuff, popped up a little white tent with our glass cases, and showed our jewelry in 42 states.” It was those years of brand discovery that shaped who they are today. “There are actually three pieces to Merzatta that really matter,” Danielle explains. Core Collection: “We wholesale these pieces to stores, which is a huge form library that is the core Merzatta in a design sense. One of the things I love about our Core CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E AST E R N M O R R I S

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | S HOPPIN G

Collection is that when you slice it in different ways, it can be really gothy, really sweet, or really bohemian. It can curate itself. One of a Kind: “One-of-a-kind pieces fall into a series of seven distinct landscape-inspired color palettes. We source stones one at a time and each piece has a bespoke metal build. Often there are elements of the Core Organics Collection in these designs and we love to have events at the shop to what’s new.” Custom Designs: “These can definitely be tied to those forms we use for the Core Collection. Sometimes they’re completely new metal builds. The fact that you can have anything you want made by someone you trust is kind of exciting. With custom, we’re trying to discover which moment you’re trying to capture, and the metalwork may or may not be “Merzatta-looking.” And what is “Merzatta-looking?” Without hesitation, Danielle says, “The language of organic textures. Sometimes it feels like these things have been found out there. Most of the time, the textures are one step removed from the original. A sweetgum fruit that’s carved or sliced or changed in some way.” Just like entering her store, slipping on a piece of Merzatta jewelry feels a bit enchanted. Natural elements are everywhere, whether wood shapes are carved from bronze, silver, or gold, or exotic little gems peek through 18K gold. “We use pinion pine, anytime you see a linear stripe in our work, it’s carved from the inside vein structure of a pinion pine cone. Our Peony Garden collection is the seeds and stems of the peony flower. There’s a cedar branch we use all the time from Silverton, Oregon.” And like nature is for everyone, so are their designs. Danielle says, “As children, we have this desire to pick up rocks and sticks, and that desire isn’t gender specific. Your 7-year-old’s pocket comes home filled with rocks for the same reason your husband might stack those stone bracelets or collect watches. Nature offers these shapes that are just great.” They often use the term rodeo. “There’s the umbrella pod ring, then there’s the umbrella pod rodeo ring, and that just means upped in size. So the rodeo size is typically moving up into men’s sizes.” Danielle attributes this inspiration to the fact that they run their business as a husband-and-wife duo, evolving many of their designs together. A lifetime of curation and love of art shapes the brand the community sees when they walk through the doors of Merzatta. “The amount of care that small shop owners put into it is something that you don’t get when you shop elsewhere. The amount of care we put into what you are wearing—we care so much.”

Danielle Merzatta Danielle Merzatta is a lifelong artist. While attending the Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia, she took a seminar in metal that opened up a whole new world. “I felt like when I was touching metal, I was touching something that was really easy to understand. There was some ease that I could say less when the material itself had its own power,” Danielle explains. She earned a Master’s in Metalsmithing at the highly prestigious Cranbrook Academy of Art. Although her beginnings were in architecture and sculpture, a friend asked her to design their wedding rings. “The universe was showing me that metal things can matter when they’re small.” Learn more: https://merzatta.com/

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E AST E R N M O R R I S

THE PERFECT GIFT GUIDE Even the friend who has absolutely everything will fall in love with these giftable finds from The Pink Pear in Madison ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRI ROOKS

ENEWTON

A jewelry brand your friends will be adding to their wish list year after year is eNewton. Pieces are designed for everyday wear; waterproof, tarnish-resistant, and made to last, with real gold-fill that bonds an actual layer of gold to every piece. You can shower, swim, sleep, and style without ever taking a piece off, stacking bracelet after bracelet and never getting enough.

LAFCO NEW YORK

A timeless piece that works in any home, LAFCO New York candles are crafted with a soy wax blend and poured into hand-blown glass vessels. A signature touch: no labels, letting the glass take center stage and making each candle feel like it's truly yours. It's a classy way to elevate any space, and with their range of scents, you really can't go wrong.

SOFTIES

A gift your friends will truly thank you for is Softies pajama and lounge sets. They're not only stylish but also soft to the touch, made with the highest-quality fabrics in every piece. Effortlessly lightweight, they stay cool all night long. Made to be worn and washed for years, it's the rare gift that gets better with every use. The Pink Pear is your gift-giving headquarters! Shop in-store or online at https://shopthepinkpear.com/

G IF T GU ID E | SHO P P I NG

"Madison didn't just need a place to buy gifts; it needed someone to guide the experience and help find the perfect gift for every occasion. That's where The Pink Pear shines." — OWNER, CHRISTINE KOSAKOWSKI

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STYLED TO SELL NORTHERN NJ REALTOR FRANCESCA MESSERCOLA REVEALS FIVE SIMPLE STAGING STRATEGIES

ARTICLE BY ALISON LUKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY TEAM MESSERCOLA

O PE N H OU SE | HO ME + D E SIGN

The first showing starts long before a buyer walks through the front door. It begins online, where beautifully photographed homes stop prospective buyers mid-scroll. Then comes the moment they step inside, when a house either feels like home or simply another property on the market. According to Northern New Jersey Realtor Francesca Messercola, home staging is what bridges that gap. “People think they should just clean everything out and show an empty house,” she says. “In reality, only a small percentage of people can walk into

a home and immediately see beyond how it looks today. We need buyers to envision themselves living there.” While an empty home may seem like a blank canvas, Messercola says it often has the opposite effect. “Empty spaces are like seeing someone naked. You see all of the imperfections.” Without furniture and thoughtful styling, buyers often struggle to understand how a room functions or imagine themselves living there. That’s why staging isn’t about decorating. It’s about helping buyers connect with the home. “You live one way when you’re living in your home, and another way when you’re selling it,” she explains. Here are five of the principles she shares with every seller before a home goes on the market. 1. Clear the clutter. “I always tell my clients to prepare their home as if their mother-in-law is coming over for dinner,” Messercola says with a smile. “You’ll naturally tidy up, put things away, and notice every little detail. Buyers do the same.” A clean, uncluttered home allows buyers to focus on the space instead of what’s inside it. 2. Let the light in. Open the blinds, brighten darker rooms, and choose timeless neutral paint colors that allow buyers to picture themselves living there. “When in doubt, soft whites or warm greiges are timeless choices that appeal to the widest audience.” 3. Give every room a purpose. Every room should answer one simple question: “How would I use this space?” Whether it’s a home office, reading nook, fitness area, or coffee bar, defining each space helps buyers immediately understand how they could live there.

4. Keep it fresh. A home should smell clean, not heavily scented. “Buyers should remember the home, not the candle,” Messercola says. One favorite tip is to tuck a dryer sheet discreetly under the bed to help keep a room smelling fresh without overwhelming the space. 5. Depersonalize with purpose. When you’re selling, the goal is to help buyers imagine the home as theirs, not yours. Removing family photographs, children’s artwork, diplomas, awards, and personal collections also helps protect your family’s privacy. Today’s listings include professional photography, cinematic video, social media marketing, and immersive 3D tours that can be viewed by thousands of people online. When buyers can picture themselves living in a home from the moment they walk through the door, they’re already halfway to making an offer. After all, every home has a story worth telling. The goal is to present that story in a way that helps buyers picture their own future there. Because the strongest first impression isn’t created by chance. It’s created with intention. Learn more at TeamMessercola.com.

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Artim Studio

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WE INVESTIGATE THROUGHLY. We secure black box (ECM) data, driver logs, maintenance records, and company documents fast. WE TAKE ON POWERFUL DEFENDANTS. We have the resources, experience, and trial skills to win maximum compensation for our clients.

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Aggressive representation to get you the settlement you deserve.

Complex litigation. Catastrophic results. We know trucking.

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barberandpapa.com info@barberandpapa.com 98 Washington Avenue Morristown, NJ 07960

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WHERE INSPIRED DESIGN MEETS STYLISH OUTDOOR LIVING

ARTICLE BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA FISK

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | HO ME + D E SIGN

For 50 years, Kohut & Son has redefined outdoor living through exceptional landscape design

As a landscape designer, John Kohut is driven by style. An intuitive visionary, he blends the art and science of landscape design to transform ordinary outdoor spaces into elevated experiences. “I am adamant about details,” he said. “I listen to every tiny suggestion or concern.” While landscaping may conjure images of perfectly pruned plantings and lush, level lawns, the industry also encompasses subspecialties that maximize both curb appeal and comfort. The patio that you envy next door? Landscaping. The plantings along the stone wall? Landscaping. The koi pond, one block over? Landscape design is subdivided into two components: hardscapes: stonework, pavers, retaining walls, to name a few, and softscapes: the horticultural or natural component. It was all hands on deck for his most recent estate design in Kinnelon. There were permits to attain, rocks to blast, and the transport of 500 boulders involved. In his world? That’s just business as usual. The big reveal leads the viewer to a natural stone embankment complemented by strategically placed greenery, seasonal flora, and an inviting pool surrounded by smooth, level stonework. CONTINUED >

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While Kohut brings the vision, he works with the homeowner to refine it. “Usually, my design concept lines up with the homeowner’s,” he said. Landscape aesthetics add instant value to the home and can up the ante in an otherwise competitive real estate market. Next-level features such as outdoor hearths and waterfalls also provide alternative entertainment space that can be used year-round. According to the New Jersey Nursery and Landscaping Association, landscape beautification is equally as easy on the wallet as it is on the eyes. Strategically placed trees can reduce heating and cooling costs by $250, and a single tree can absorb 26 pounds of carbon dioxide annually. Even in a seasonal climate like New Jersey, landscaping is a year-round operation that requires more than garden-variety tools for long-term maintenance. Heading further into the fall, Kohut is at least one season–and leaf–ahead. “This is a full-time endeavor,” he said. “There’s plantings from March all the way through December, and then I do heavy design work in February.” On a more personal note, Kohut is a self-professed plant aficionado and can recite 6,400 species from memory. “When I go into a nursery, I’m like that kid in a candy store,” he said. He brings that kind of energy to the job, and it reverberates through to his customers and crews– there are twelve for the subspecialties. He credits his artistic eye to a gift from above. “I really don’t have an ego, for real,” he said. “I’m just a landscaper from Boonton.” Plant passions aside, Kohut’s initial aspiration was architecture. “Once I started taking the classes, it was definitely not what I wanted to do,” he said. Landscape design, however, was more his speed. His late father was in the business, and the Kohut name has been in circulation for half a century. John keeps the legacy going, and the simple addition of “and son” does just that. In his sparse but spare time, he enjoys spending time with his many pets, including a cat, a rabbit, and a pot-bellied pig. He always has room for more, in his heart and his home. In the meantime, there are mums that need tending to. Learn more: https://www.kohutlandscapingllc.com/

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | HO ME + D E SIGN

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Why personal style still has a place in motherhood

STILL DRESSING LIKE ME ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY FELISHA LYNCH Becoming a mom changed almost everything about my life, but one thing I never wanted it to take away was my personal style. Motherhood is a beautiful part of who I am. Honestly, it’s one of the biggest and best parts. But it isn’t the only part. I always remind myself, “This is my first time living too!” I think a lot of women become moms and slowly stop doing the little things that used to make them feel like themselves. Not because they don’t care, but because there is always someone else to dress, feed, pack for, or drive somewhere. Before you know it, you’ve picked out five outfits for five kids, and you’re standing there in the same leggings you wore yesterday. And don’t get me wrong, I love a t-shirt and sweatpants day. I have plenty of them, but I also know that getting dressed in something I love can completely change how I feel. It doesn’t have to be for date night. It doesn’t have to be for an event. Sometimes I’ll put on a cute outfit on a random

T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Tuesday just because I want to. Maybe I’m only going to school pickup or running errands, but I feel more confident, more put together, and honestly more like me. My st yle has changed over the years because I’ve changed. I may not reach for the super-short dresses I wore in my t wenties, but that doesn’t mean I stopped having fun with clothes. I’ve just learned what makes me feel good in this season of life! Style isn’t about impressing anyone. It’s a way to express yourself and take care of yourself, even in the middle of the chaos that is motherhood. Wear the dress. Try the trend. Put on the outfit you’ve been saving for “somewhere special.” Sometimes the special occasion is simply deciding that you deserve to feel good today! Follow along on socials @felishalynchxo <3

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CONFIDENCE Atlantic Title & Settlement Service, LLC YOUR PARTNER IN THE SETTLEMENT PROCESS

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130 Clinton Road, Lobby A, Suite 201, Fairfield, NJ 07004 Cell 732.841.7141 Office 973.575.4848 www.AtlanticTitle.net Atlantic Title & Settlement Service, LLC. ensures property transactions are secure and stress-free. We research and verify property titles, resolve issues, and provide title insurance to protect your investment. Our team manages every detail of the closing process, from contracts to final signatures, so buyers, sellers, lenders, and agents can move forward with confidence. We are proudly licensed in NJ, NY, PA, DE, MD, VA, NC, SC, GA, FL, CO, IN, MI, MN, OH, TN, & WI S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E AST E R N M O R R I S

Local influencer Lauren Moran Mills models effortless fall looks featuring luxury pieces from Quality Consignments.

Three Chic Ways to Style Fall Denim Dreaming of a designer jacket or special occasion dress that's beyond your budget? Francesca Laurenzi, owner of Quality Consignments on Main Street in Boonton, makes luxury attainable. A legend in her industry, she carefully curates only the best. Website: www.shopqualityconsignments.com Lauren Moran Mills: @lomomills

ARTICLE BY ALISON LUKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN MORAN MILLS

FASH ION F OR WA R D | S HOPPIN G

Look 1 A flowy blouse paired with a simple beaded necklace and the perfect pointed flat shoe. Lauren: I love how lightweight and flattering this top is. I’m a November baby, so I love all the fall colors. And this hobo bag, it’s great to throw all your stuff in. That’s the pop. Each piece picks up the fall colors. Francesca: On a hot day in September, you can wear it and not look like you’re in July. Jeans can be dressed up or down, and people want to be comfortable. You can wear them with such versatility and still look put together.

Look 2 The classiest black jacket you’ve ever seen with a sexy heel that has just enough bling. Lauren: I feel very elegant and put together. My style has been changing. I’ve been leaning into more conservative and elegant looks that are sophisticated. Francesca: It’s elegant and covered, but it’s stylish. The jacket is oversized intentionally. It’s organza. You can wear it with jeans and sneakers or dress it up. Think of it as a luxe jean jacket. The structured bag is ladylike and is just as versatile as the jacket.

Look 3 A navy gingham blazer with casual raw edges and a pop of Dior. Lauren: I love these jeans. The blazer is stunning. And the sneakers make everything feel casual yet put together. I could totally wear this out to lunch with friends or a business meeting. Francesca: This is entry into fall when it’s still hot out. You’re not wearing bright colors. The jacket is a deconstructed blazer, so it’s sporty. Sneakers make it comfortable, and a good bag goes with everything. You can even wear the blazer with a navy trouser. But I love the fringe on the jeans and on the jacket.

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realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N E A S T E R N M O R R I S . NEIGHBORHOOD

BDRMS

B AT H S

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

SALE PRICE

310 Morris Ave, Mountain Lakes

3.1

100%

114

$1,250,000

78 Forest Way, Hanover Township

3.1

112%

$1,290,000

171 Old Bloomfield Ave, Parsippany

3.1

102%

$1,300,000

11 Windemere Ct, Hanover Township

3.2

114%

$1,368,000

2 David Dr, Hanover Township

3.1

100%

$1,398,000

4 Buck Run Ct, Montville

2.2

98%

$1,425,000

18 Ball Road, Mountain Lakes

4.1

109%

$1,450,000

47 Abbott Road, Montville

103%

$1,477,000

30 Kokora Ave, Montville

3.1

103%

$1,525,000

95 Kingsland Road, Boonton Township

4.1

93%

$1,560,000

18 Renshaw Dr, Montville

3.1

108%

$1,585,000

28 Woodshire Ter, Montville

3.1

123%

$1,660,000

15 Fieldstone Ct, East Hanover Twp.

3.1

113%

$1,685,000

156 Pollard Rd, Mountain Lakes

3.2

129%

$1,780,000

22 Fawn Dr, Montville

4.1

100%

$1,900,000

Sample of recent sales based on information from the Garden State MLS. Properties were listed and sold by various MLS participating offices.

Helping clients maximize value and create a seamless real estate experience.

• CONCIERGE LEVEL SERVICE • COMPREHENSIVE ELEVATED MARKETING • SOPHISTICATED NEGOTIATOR

#1 Coldwell Banker Agent in Eastern Morris Coldwell Banker Realty Sales Associate | 91 Crane Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046 Direct 973-219-8845 Office 973-263-0400 | Sueanne.sylvester@cbmoves.com | SueanneSylvester.com

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | REAL ESTAT E

• TRUSTED ADVOCATE

Should you sell your home this Fall, or prepare now for Spring? Thinking about a move this Fall but concerned you’ve missed the market? Don’t worry. Fall is a wonderful time to sell a home. With fewer homes on the market, there’s less competition and serious, motivated buyers are still looking for a home like yours. Gorgeous fall colors make homes feel especially warm and welcoming. Considering selling next Spring? Now’s the time to take outdoor photos to showcase your beautiful green lawn and colorful garden. When you hit the market early next year, and there’s still snow on the ground, your home will stand out! Call us to arrange complete exterior and drone photography before the leaves start to turn. We also offer our clients a free two-hour staging consultation to help you prepare your home to sell for top dollar. Call, text, or email us to discuss your options and decide what’s best for you. All conversations are confidential.

Sueanne Sylvester 973-219-8845

Andrew Sylvester 949-205-5855

Ranked Top 1% of Agents In the World Coldwell Banker Realty | 91 Crane Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046 | 973-263-0400 Direct

SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SE PT E M BE R 3 RD - 6T H

Boonton Fire Department Carnival 306 Lathrop Ave, Boonton | 6:00 PM Drinks - Entertainment - 50/50 - Games & Prizes - Wristbands available for Unlimited Rides Thursday, 9/3 • 6 PM - 12 AM Friday, 9/4 • 6 PM - 12 AM Saturday, 9/5 • 3 PM - 12 AM - Parade at 1:30 PM Sunday, 9/6 • 3 PM - 12 AM - Fireworks at 10:00 PM More details: https://boontonfd.org/carnival SE PT E M BE R 5T H

Boonton Warped 2026 Punk Rock Flea Market & Music Festival Boonton Elks Lodge #1405 | 2:00 PM Boonton Warped 2026 Punk Rock Flea Market & Music Festival Saturday & Sunday, September 5-6, 2026 Boonton Elks Lodge #1405 125 Cornelia St, Boonton, NJ 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM (both days) $10 Admission • All Ages 10+ bands each day With support from Trash Panda Presents.

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LY C H E E S P R I T Z ARTICLE BY THE GODFATHER OF EAST HANOVER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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