Another FunFilled Summer in the Books
Is it just me, or did summer fly by? September always feels like one of the best times of year — a welcome break from the sweltering heat, with cooler days and so much to look forward to. Around here, it means the return of some of our favorite local traditions: Upper Providence Community Day, Media Porchfest, town-wide garage sales… and of course, the Eagles’ first home games. (Go Birds!)
September also marks our annual Style Issue, where we get to explore what style means in all its forms.
This month, we caught up with two exciting new additions to State Street: Chosen Tweed Home Décor and Gifts, where Josh Young shared his take on curating a stylish home, and Sonny’s Vintage Clothing, where Dakota Cardosanto spoke about his love of timeless fashion.
Style, of course, isn’t just about what we wear or how we decorate — it’s also about the little choices that make our surroundings feel like our own. Our editorial coordinator, Stephanie Hwang, dug into the world of houseplants this month, with some helpful tips to keep in mind before bringing a new green friend home.
And because you all know how much I love seafood — growing up in Florida on shrimp and grits, fresh grouper, and Apalachicola oysters, then falling for mussels, clams, and Maryland crabs when I moved north — this month’s End of Summer Crab Bowl recipe feels like a perfect way to send off the season.
At the end of the day, the best style is simply being yourself. Nothing is more authentic — or more stylish — than that. So here’s to embracing what makes you uniquely you.
See you on State Street!
SCOTT DAVIDSON, PUBLISHER @MEDIACITYLIFESTYLE
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Stephanie Hwang | stephanie.hwang@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Josh Young, Claudia Kozar
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1. Media Farmers Market ripe with farm fresh finds. mediafarmersmarket.com 2. Cori Parmley of New-Bee Ranch is always happy to talk honey. newbeeranch.com 3. Media local and Lion Hills Coffee owner, Alison Tuiyott. lionhillscoffeeusa.com 4. Authentic Mexican from the source, kitchen manager Hunter Wickwire. tasteofpuebla.com 5. Liz Sullivan, owner & brew master of Kombucha Bliss of West Chester. instagram.com/ kombucha_bliss 6. Farmer Andrew drives over an hour from his Coopersburg farm to reach Media. ironstonefarms.com 7. Isy (Isadore) of Media samples fruit at the Media Farmers Market. Photography by Scott Davidson
Dr. Bob
Dr. Alexa
Dr. Dan
Dr. Jarred
business monthly
Jackson Street Steaks to Open in Media this September
Jackson Street Steaks, a family-friendly cheesesteak restaurant and taproom with a European-inspired design, opens this September at the former HOUSE restaurant on Jackson Street. Founded by the owners of Pete’s Famous Pizza in Philadelphia, it will feature cheesesteaks, cutlets, burgers, wings, and desserts like cannolis and Dubai chocolate donut bites. The menu includes local beers from Meyers Brewing Co., ciders, and seltzers.
The Great Media Fall Yard Sale & Porchfest
On Sept. 20th, Media will host its annual borough-wide fall yard sale. Borough residents’ uncover their buried treasure to make this a widely attended bargain bonanza. In addition, the yard sale is combined with “Porchfest.” Select locations will host these fun live music pop-ups. Example: MAC has a beer garden and live music at the Morris Brother's Porch on 18 E. 2nd St. For map of participants. mediaborough.com
Media-Upper Providence Library Offers Free Museum Passes
Media-Upper Providence Free Library’s Museum Passes program makes it possible for library cardholder families to visit popular local museums and zoos for free! Over a dozen passes are available including Academy of Natural Sciences, Brandywine Museum of Art, Chanticleer Garden, Elmwood Park Zoo, Independence Seaport Museum, Museum of the American Revolution, National Constitution Center, The Academy of Fine Art, and many more. Passes are on a first come, first served basis. mediauplibrary.org
CHOSEN TWEED
ARTICLE BY JOSH YOUNG & CLAUDIA KOZAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DAVIDSON
1. Can you tell us how the idea for Chosen Tweed came about, and what inspired you to open a home and gift store here in Media?
The general concept has been there for me. Living and being in spaces that feel intentional, well thought out, and comfortable makes me happy. I enjoy bringing sensible design, approachable luxury, and entertaining guests together. Chosen Tweed is a reflection of my home, warm and welcoming and always ready to entertain. I wanted to be a destination where customers can find a well-curated collection of home and gift items, gain confidence in showing their personal style in their own space, and feel a sense of trust and belonging at Chosen Tweed.
Initially, I planned to open a small home store. I wanted a local home & gift store where I could buy items that matched my style rather than shop elsewhere or at big box stores. The concept evolved into a space that forges design, thoughtful gift giving, community connections, and giving back.
The name Chosen Tweed evolved with the business idea. “Chosen” is a nod to how my family has formed through the adoptions of our 3 kids (Alexandra, Trevor, and Julian) and rescuing our dog Bella. We choose the people with whom we want to surround ourselves. We choose what we bring into our home to reflect our personal style and we choose gifts for those who we cherish.
“Tweed” is an understated reference to the suiting material, classic and refined. My hope is that customers feel that same classic and refined style when they come into the store.
My mother was born and raised in France. She set a very high bar for how to host guests in our home, how to make them feel comfortable, and how to enjoy the experience herself. She knew how to gracefully fill a space with her personality, a trait that she passed along to me. I hope that when you come into Chosen Tweed, you feel like you are coming into someone’s home.
2. What is your vision and philosophy for Chosen Tweed?
Naming your style is like guessing someone’s weight - avoid it at all costs! Our family spends vacations on Cape Cod, so the casual coastal feel is always present. I gravitate to items that have color, pattern, and texture. Durability and functionality are key as many of our customers have kids, pets, or both. Chosen Tweed focuses on approachable luxury that allows for some splurge items without sticker shock.
Returning customers frequently share that they know they will find the perfect gift or home accent at Chosen Tweed, despite not knowing what it is. We ask questions so we can offer suggestions to customers that make sense with their lifestyle, and focus on building rapport, which is critical to an ongoing relationship rooted in trust.
LIVING AND being IN SPACES THAT FEEL intentional , WELL THOUGHT OUT, AND comfortable MAKES ME happy.
Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, is a major inspiration for the store. After seeing her speak at the Academy of Music in October 2024, I decided that I would open the store by the time I got to the parking lot. She emphasized the creation of beautiful spaces that intrigue the senses while actively listening to your customers resonated deeply with me. She truly embodies understated elegance and how to treat guests in her home. I strive to do the same here at Chosen Tweed.
3. How do you go about sourcing your products? What do you look for when curating your collection?
Finding the right collection of items for the store is a never-ending process. Kristin, our fantastic buyer, seeks out new and unique products and vendors and our product offering stays fresh and exciting. We look for products with a story. Local vendors, eco-friendly and fair trade products, and businesses that support important causes and the community always rise to the top of our list.
Aside from sourcing products, there is a natural dye studio in the store. Our Studio Manager Meg brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and energy to the studio that is infectious. She has created a hub for those seeking a creative outlet in a community-oriented approach. Chosen Tweed Studio produces custom home textiles including tablecloths, napkins, table runners, pillows, and aprons. Meg and her team expertly pair naturally dyed fabrics with beautiful printed fabrics to make oneof-a-kind pieces.
Every Monday on Instagram, we post Josh’s Picks, a spotlight on items that I personally like and bring into my home. Customers enjoy the personal connection and trustworthy advice. I make sure that the items featured are really my favorites, not just a random item.
Right now, I have a few items that keep catching my eye. The Icaria Bench is the perfect flex seating option with interesting details that make it a conversation starter. We recently started carrying a French line of pillows that come in gorgeous colors and patterns. My favorite seat in the store is the Galiot Chair, a modern & casual take on the classic wingback chair. Our acrylic trays are a no-brainer and can be paired with matching napkins and a bottle of wine for a great host gift. A cookbook from our collection along with a fun serving utensil is always an easy option. Geometry tea towels are a crowd favorite with various patterns and color palettes from which to choose.
4. How does Chosen Tweed reflect the spirit of Media?
We have been so happy with all of the good wishes showered upon us by the community. We regularly hear “Welcome to Media!” from customers. Community is the bedrock of the store. We actively participate in various Media events and collaborate with other businesses to form strong and trusting relationships. Our Sip & Shop events give 10% back from the sales to a specific local organization. We donate a portion of our proceeds on select pet items to Providence Animal Center throughout the year. We are always looking for new ways to meaningfully give back to our community.
As a new business in “Everybody’s Hometown,” Chosen Tweed wanted to continue with the mission set forth by Game on State to employ adults with disabilities in an integrated work environment. As the vision for Chosen Tweed came to fruition, so did hiring employees of ANEWAY, making our store the first on State Street to model this approach.
RETURNING CUSTOMERS frequently SHARE
THAT they know THEY WILL
perfect gift OR HOME accent
FIND THE
AT CHOSEN TWEED DESPITE
NOT knowing WHAT IT IS.
5. How does Chosen Tweed create a personal and memorable experience for shoppers?
On our second day open, a customer came into the store to shop. When I started talking with her, she shared that she had been there the day before to buy some things. She mentioned that she was in a bit of a funk that morning and headed to Chosen Tweed, remembering how she felt, how kind the team was to her, and how beautiful the store was. That’s when I first felt like we had achieved our goal of being a welcoming space.
I’m often told how great my team is. Working with my team every day is one of my favorite parts of the business. They are a dynamic, happy, smart, and funny group of people who each bring such character and charm to the team.
Our door is always open to visitors of all ages, even dogs! We keep a secret stash of snacks, dog treats, and kids’ games behind the register to keep even the fussiest shoppers happy. I cherish the relationships we have already built and the interesting people who I have met.
6. What do you envision for the future of Chosen Tweed? I hope to see Chosen Tweed develop into a community hub, somewhere that people from all backgrounds can engage and learn. We will continue to strive to be a place where you can trust us implicitly.
112 W State St, Media, PA 19063 @ChosenTweed
FEELING TIRED AND OVERWEIGHT ?
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Reduces Appetite
Decreases appetite & food cravings
Slows Digestion
Promotes Significant
Weight Loss
Improves Metabolic Health
Non-stimulant
Improves Insulin Resistance
Complements
Lifestyle Changes
Convenient Treatment Options
Long-Term Weight Loss
Sonny's
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HWANG PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT DAVIDSON
Equal parts boutique, collector’s hub, and cultural space. Curated by eight new collectors each month. Welcome to the next evolution in vintage.
Vintage Clothing
Sonny’s Vintage Clothing is the brainchild of Dakota Cardosanto, who runs the shop alongside his longtime friend and collaborator Michelle. He and Michelle are vintage enthusiasts and co-hosts of a vintage YouTube series. Dakota himself is deeply entrenched in the vintage world as the founder of The Philly Vintage Flea, having sold to celebrities and collectors and built an extensive network through the market.
After over 15 years spent visiting vintage shops and hosting the YouTube series, the idea for Sonny’s was born, named after Dakota’s oldest son. The result is a rotating vintage experience where the selection changes monthly. This rotating-curator model gives Sonny’s the energy that’s hard to find in traditional vintage shops. “My idea was, what if the store changed often?” Dakota explains. Equal parts boutique, collector’s hub, and cultural space, Sonny’s stands out for its inventory and how it is curated.
Sonny’s is unique because of its rotating cast of contributors. “We invite eight different resellers every month,” says Dakota. These aren’t casual consignors. They’re vendors with niche specialties, anywhere from Y2K and 90s sportswear to vintage Finnish soccer kits and rare concert tees. He says, “We invite the best people. They have specialties... some of these guys have hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram and thriving online businesses.”
With deep connections in the vintage scene, both locally and internationally, he brings in items through a variety of avenues. “With the
flea market, I have guys that travel from Japan... Japan’s got a ton of designer items, a whole different dynamic.”
An unexpected way he sources vintage items is through spontaneous conversations with strangers. “If I see a guy with a cool shirt on... I get to talking,” he says. “That’s really fun too, because I get to connect with people.”
Media, with its walkable downtown and style-conscious residents, was a natural fit for the shop. “People in Media are cultured and they’re open... they’re interested in things like fashion and history,” Dakota says. “It’s a young town, it’s happy, it’s thriving.”
While the store is fashion-forward, its philosophy is grounded in history, sustainability, and authenticity. Dakota says that older clothing was often made to last and cherished by its owner, in stark contrast to the fast fashion of today.
CONTINUED >
Vintage De Rosa Bicycles Varsity Jacket
One striking example of the shop’s inventory is a varsity jacket from De Rosa Bicycles, a rare 1990s piece with only one other known to exist in a cycling museum in Pasadena. “It’s beautiful. The colors are great aesthetically, fashion-wise it’s awesome,” Dakota says. “The wild thing about this jacket is, nobody was buying a varsity jacket for a bike brand that they liked... It wasn’t like a fashion statement.” It turns out the jacket was custom-made by a group of employees at the bike company, one of whom had once built a bicycle for Steve Jobs. That jacket is now priced at $168, well below what a modern reproduction would cost.
A couple of notable past sales include a Snoop Dogg shirt that fetched $2,500. Another time, a friend found Levi’s in an abandoned Montana home that later sold for $13,000 at The Philly Vintage Flea.
Though the store includes accessories like vintage bags and jewelry, Dakota draws the line at modern designs or non-vintage apparel. “Our customers expect us to deliver vintage clothing.” This dedication to authenticity extends to the store’s in-house validation process, particularly for designer items. “We use the same process that you could pay to authenticate,” Dakota explains.
“People like to find what really speaks to them, whether it's the graphic, the cut, or what it stands for.”
Looking ahead, Dakota dreams of cultivating a community at Sonny’s. “We’re going to do trade nights,” he says. “So people can come in on a Sunday night and trade t-shirts...” He plans on hosting events, local art features, and hopefully one day, bringing The Philly Vintage Flea to Media’s own State Street.
“Instead of coming in with maybe the thing that I enjoy most, I always like to learn about other collectors’ things,” Dakota says. “And after learning all these different niches... I kind of love it all.”
303 W State St, Media, PA 19063 @SonnysVintageClothing
Plants Say No That 10
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HWANG
1 - ALOE
Aloe gel may be soothing, but the aloe plant is toxic if chewed whole.
2 -JADE PLANT
Can cause vomiting, lethargy, and incoordination in pets and humans.
3 - SANSEVIERIA (SNAKE PLANT)
Mildly toxic if ingested and causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
4 - MONSTERA
Gorgeous leaves, but irritating to mouths and stomachs.
5 - LILIES
Extremely toxic to cats; even pollen or vase water can be deadly.
6 - BIRD OF PARADISE
Seeds and pods can cause drowsiness, vomiting, or trouble breathing in humans or pets.
7 - CALADIUM
Vibrant foliage, but dangerous: causes severe mouth and throat irritation if ingested.
8 - OLEANDER
All parts are highly poisonous; even a small amount can be fatal.
9 - DIEFFENBACHIA (DUMB CANE)
Chewing causes burning, swelling, and difficulty swallowing in both humans and animals.
10 - POTHOS (DEVIL’S IVY)
Common but toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting and oral irritation.
For the full list of toxic and non-toxic plants, go to aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/ toxic-and-non-toxic-plants.
SUMMER END of CRAB BOIL
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
I love family-style meals such as a crab boil this time of year. The food is the star of the show and a vital part of the tablescape – decor optional! Additional elements included here are a large paper-sail, light blue taper candles, a few large flowers, and heavy white rope as nautical accents. You can also use other elements such as large seashells, coral or seaglass. Use whatever you have on hand that nods to the sea.
TABLE SETTING CENTERPIECE
White Pasta Bowls
Individual Ceramic Butter Warmers
Linen Napkins
Woven Placemats
Galvanized Tavern Mugs
Crab Napkin Rings
Crab Salt & Pepper
Crab Bottle Opener
Parchment Paper
Paper-Sail Centerpiece (instructions found in Martha Stewart’s book “Handmade Holiday Crafts” page 248) set in a galvanized bucket filled with white sand.
Blue Taper Candles placed in 8oz jelly jars filled with white sand.
Glass Bottles labeled “Let’s Sail Away.” Inside, roll up a handwritten note, joke or riddle for guests to enjoy a chuckle or conversation starter.
Large Galvanized Tray overlaid with parchment paper to hold the crab boil feast.
Fill a large stock pot halfway with cold water. Season with lemon peels, bay leaves, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Old Bay Seasoning, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil and add crab legs, sausage, potatoes, and corn until cooked. Strain water and serve on a large galvanized tray, newspaper or parchment paper – enjoy your meal with guests, family style!
Give each guest a bowl of garlic butter for dipping as well as lemons for squeezing (wrapped in cheesecloth and tied with twine to avoid seeds).
Include special beverages and desserts such as a tiered lemon cake or frozen treat to beat the heat.
For full instructions visit the blog at silvertoothhome.com/blog/crabboil . Enjoy!
CRAB BOIL MENU
YOUR DRINK DRESS UP
THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS
BLUE MARTINI
WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES
BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 ounces Absolut Citron
• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao
• 1/2 ounce lemonade
• 1 ounce Sprite
• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums
DIRECTIONS:
Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight. Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.
Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.
ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN
FIG + THYME
SPARKLING LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• thyme simple syrup
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 bunch thyme
• 2 fresh figs
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup
• 3/4 ounce Sprite
In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.
For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.
Scott turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Media City Lifestyle
Published by Scott Loved by Media
SEPTEMBER 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 13TH
4th Annual Upper Providence Township Community Day
ROSE TREE PARK, 1671 N. PROVIDENCE RD., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 11:00 AM
Join Upper Providence Township’s 4th Annual Community Day bringing together residents, businesses, and organizations to enjoy a day filled with fun activities, entertainment, and opportunities to connect with neighbors and local resources. Featuring live music, food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly games. Community Day offers something for everyone. upperprovidence.org
SEPTEMBER 20TH
Rocky Run YMCA – Brew Ha-Ha
ROCKY RUN YMCA, 1299 W. BALTIMORE PIKE, MEDIA, PA 19063 | 5:00 PM
A community celebration with local food, beer, and wine vendors, fun activities, raffles, live music, and entertainment! Open to community members ages 21 and older. Featuring comedians and live music to keep the fun going all night long! There will be lawn games, food trucks, and more! Proceeds from this event will support the YMCA's community services. philaymca.org
SEPTEMBER 20TH
Masquerade…a Murder Mystery Dinner
MEDIA THEATRE, 104 E. STATE ST., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 6:00 PM
Enjoy an enchanting evening of mystery, masks, and mouthwatering food presented by Barking Dog Garden Patio. Masquerade Murder Mystery…where secrets simmer and suspects mingle over a decadent farm-to-table dinner. Indulge in locally sourced cuisine and signature desserts from Jane Baked It as you unravel a deliciously dark whodunit. Come dressed to impress—behind every mask lies a motive, and every guest is a potential suspect. mediatheatre.org
SEPTEMBER 27TH
3rd Annual Media EcoFest
HERTITAGE PARK, BETWEEN 5TH & BROOMALL STREETS, MEDIA, PA 19063 | 10:00 AM
Enjoy food, music, activities for all, scavenger hunt, drum circles, and great resources from local environmental and community groups. Have lots of fun and even learn something cool – how to replace plastic products with greener alternatives, how to repel mosquitoes cheaply and easily, what trees and shrubs work best in your yard, and much more! The event is free and open to the public. transitiontownmedia.org
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Delaware County Historical Society “Delco Downhill Derby”
EDGMONT STREET, MEDIA, PA 19063 | 12:00 PM
Join the first-ever Delco Downhill Derby on Edgmont Street in Media! Design and race your own gravity-powered vehicle in this exciting community event. Experience the fun of creativity, engineering, and pure gravitational energy. Registration required by September 12. Learn more or sign up at padelcohistory.org — don’t miss the downhill action!
SEPTEMBER 28TH
1st Annual Delco 10-Miler
ROSE TREE PARK, 1671 N. PROVIDENCE RD., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 8:00 AM
The Delco 10-Miler is more than just a race — it’s a celebration of community, connection, and giving back. From Rose Tree Park in Media to Subaru Park in Chester — this unique 10-mile race connects four municipalities and countless neighborhoods, raising funds for local non-profits and community programs. Presented by the County of Delaware and Visit Delco. Lace up and give back! Delco10miler.com
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Enjoy luxury amenities and services, such as, weekly housekeeping, indoor garage parking, flexible dining plan with access to four unique restaurants and full-service bar, nine-hole putting green, 24/7 fitness center, indoor swimming pool and so much more. Join our growing wait list today!
