JU DA SILVA, RIDGEFIELD’S ONLY DEDICATED SEAMSTRESS, Brings Expert Tailoring and Bespoke Fashion to Life with My Mama Made
HOME + DESIGN
STUDIO CME BLENDS ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN TOGETHER, CREATING SPACES AND PLACES FOR THE MODERN WORLD
WELLNESS
SPIRETHERAPY FOUNDER DENISE SANTANGELO IS CHANGING THE CONVERSATION AROUND MENTAL HEALTH FOR KIDS (AND PARENTS)
LIFE + CULTURE
ST. STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH CELEBRATES 300 YEARS OF SERVING THE RIDGEFIELD COMMUNITY
As reflected in mid-year 2025 results for Ridgefield. Median Sales Price is up 7% compared to the first half of 2024, rising from $990,000 to $1,060,000, while Unit Sales are down 7% year-over-year. Inventory remains tight considering we have launched 10% more listings in 2025 vs. 2024, with more new listings being launched weekly and many receiving multiple offers within days.
The present market conditions are highly advantageous. Our accomplished team of professionals will assist in optimizing your property for market readiness. The COMPASS 3-Phase Marketing Program continues to achieve significant success. We invite you to explore how this program can benefit your transaction. We extend our sincere gratitude for helping make Karla Murtaugh the #1 agent in Ridgefield once again—and proud to be named among the Top 1.5% of Agents Nationwide by RealTrends, 2025. When you partner with us you can expect a forward-thinking approach to marketing and a platinum level of customer care and integrity across all price points. We recognize a home is your biggest asset, so whether you’re buying or selling, don’t settle. Contact us today for a private consultation.
Scan to Learn More about 4 Blacksmith Ridge
The Style Issue
Dear Reader,
I hope this letter finds you inspired and ready to embrace the beauty of self-expression.
Style is such an extraordinary part of life— it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read, and even how we interact with the world around us. It’s the unique thread that creates the tapestry of who we are.
What makes style so captivating is its deeply personal nature. It evolves alongside us as we explore new interests, embrace our quirks, and express what we value most. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding.
Here in Ridgefield, we’re fortunate to have endless opportunities to celebrate and explore style. Whether it’s through visiting local boutiques, supporting creative entrepreneurs, or simply drawing inspiration from our town’s vibrant culture, there’s so much to ignite your creativity and lift your spirit.
This month, I encourage you to think of style as an authentic expression of yourself. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are—your passions, your story, your individuality. And the incredible thing is that no one else in the world can replicate that.
So go ahead, celebrate your unique style. Whether you’re exploring new trends, blending classic elements, or creating something entirely original, let this issue inspire you to embrace the power of self-expression.
Here’s to being unapologetically and uniquely you!
Cheers!
BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER
@RIDGEFIELDLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Katie Parry | katie.parry@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jennifer Zarine Photography, Natasha Fleming Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn how
463 NORTH SALEM ROAD
Ridgefield, Connecticut
6 BD | 6/2 BA | 1.25 AC
An elegant estate on North Salem Road Offered at $2,795,000
Co-listed with Laura Ancona | 203.733.7053
96 NORRANS RIDGE DRIVE
Ridgefield, Connecticut
4 BD | 3/2 BA | 1.47 AC
Timeless elegance minutes from downtown Offered at $2,495,000
*Source:
78 HOYTS HILL
Bethel, Connecticut
4 BD | 2/1 BA | 2,169 SF
Picture-perfect and fully updated Colonial Sold for $660,000
inside the issue
Studio CME
Blending
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church
Celebrating
Elevating Families
How
Ju Da Silva, Ridgefield’s only dedicated seamstress, stands alongside her daughter, Vivian Brown. A master of her craft, Ju designed and expertly handmade both of the stunning dresses featured on this month’s cover.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Princesses, performances, and pure magic returned to Ballard Park for the 4th annual Princesses in the Park festival! Ridgefield Lifestyle was proud to sponsor this beloved (and free to attend!) community event—for its biggest year yet. Hosted by Sweet Bean Events, families enjoyed live shows, meet-and-greets with princesses, superheroes, and other favorite characters, plus hands-on activities and whimsical surprises from local vendors and businesses. It was a magical day in Ridgefield! 5: Ridgefield Lifestyle Editor Katie Parry (left) with Social Media Manager Ashley Hutchings 6: Princesses in the Park founder, Jenifer Johnson, with Rudy Marconi, Glinda, and Elphaba
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Clarke Culture Salon
At Clarke Culture Salon, we believe beauty should feel fun, elevated, and completely personalized. Our curated packages make it easy to choose a luxurious experience without hidden fees or rushed services. Whether you’re refreshing your color, getting a flawless blowout, or indulging in a deep treatment, our talented team is here to help you feel like your best self. Our mission is redefining what a salon visit feels like—one appointment at a time. Follow along @clarkeculturesalon and visit clarkeculturesalon.com to book.
Photography by Brandon Manna
Kate Fitzpatrick Consulting
Ridgefield native Kate Denoyer Fitzpatrick launched Kate Fitzpatrick Consulting over a decade ago after years in international magazine publishing and nonprofit communications. She specializes in private social media coaching, profile audits and strategic management services for small businesses and entrepreneurs, working with some of the most respected brands in our area. Visit katefitzpatrick.com to learn more and follow along on Instagram at @katefitz.co and Facebook at Facebook. com/KateFitzpatrickConsulting . Mention Ridgefield Lifestyle for 10% off your next coaching session!
Candlelight Shoppe
The Candlelight Shoppe has been a Main Street treasure since 1964. Owner Pam Fitzpatrick has an uncanny knack for matching you with your dream bra—and never forgets your size. She stocks global brands like Cosabella, Chantelle, and Simone Pérèle, plus pajamas from favorites like Eberjey and PJ Salvage. Recently nominated for “Best Lingerie Shop in North America,” the Candlelight Shoppe is a Ridgefield gem. One visit and you’ll see why: this little shop lifts more than just your spirits. 416 Main Street.
Photography by Kate Wark Photography
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ZARINE PHOTOGRAPHY
BLENDING INTERIOR DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE TO CREATE SPACES AND PLACES FOR THE MODERN WORLD
STUDIO CME
Christine Everett, founder of Studio CME, has long been drawn to the visual arts. Growing up, she often exhibited her artwork and dreamed of turning her passion for clothing and garment
project often requires an extra level of expertise… and architectural projects often benefit from a more intuitive understanding of interior space. So they both inform each other.”
“MY FIRST LOVE WAS INTERIORS, SO I
ALWAYS
DESCRIBE
MYSELF AS AN INTERIOR ARCHITECT.”—CHRISTINE
construction into a career in fashion. After studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology for a time, she ultimately changed course, choosing to pursue interior design instead.
“There are some aspects of fashion design and interior design that overlap,” Christine explains. “The use of textiles, color theory, and pattern techniques. But the interplay of textiles and the more tactile aspects always pulled me back to interiors.”
After earning a degree in interior design, Christine went on to receive her NCIDQ certification (National Council for Interior Design Qualification), and, eager to deepen her expertise, she obtained a second degree—this time in architecture.
“My first love was interiors, so I always describe myself as an interior architect,” she tells us. “An interiors
EVERETT
Christine has cultivated a wide-ranging career across nearly every facet of the design industry. She began by working for renowned architects William Rawn Associates, building wood models and contributing to theater and cultural projects. In New York City, Christine was introduced to the world of corporate real estate, joining a team focused on high-rise commercial buildings. She then expanded her expertise into corporate interiors, hospitality, healthcare, and retail design.
Later, Christine worked in the office of César Pelli—best known for designing the iconic Petronas Towers—where she focused on the interior design of hotels and universities both in the U.S. and abroad. Throughout her career, Christine has also taken on a variety of residential projects, adding even more depth and versatility to her portfolio.
Christine met Peter Pesce—an accomplished architect in his own right—while working at a firm in New York City. The two eventually married and, in 2017, moved to Ridgefield with their son. Christine found an opportunity to leverage her corporate interiors experience in Connecticut, joining Boehringer Ingelheim where she managed complex commercial projects and further honed her ability to balance aesthetics, budgets, and functionality.
She later took on a leadership role at Travelers Insurance, directing workplace and design standards across the company’s national portfolio. But with a long commute and a son entering middle school, Christine decided it was time for a change.
In June 2024, she launched her own firm: Studio CME.
“It’s a bit of a change of pace, but it’s great to bring all of my experience and insight to a different scale of work,” she says.
This past June, Peter—also disenchanted with his long commute—joined Studio CME full-time. A member of the American Institute of Architects, the National Council of Architectural Registration
“JUST A FEW KEY CHANGES CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE. SOMETIMES, YOU STOP SEEING WHAT’S RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU. A LITTLE OUTSIDE PERSPECTIVE CAN REALLY TRANSFORM A SPACE.”
Boards, and the U.S. Green Building Council, he brings more than 35 years of experience in residential, large-scale, and institutional architecture.
“I was working for a large architectural firm in New York City,” he tells us. “The projects were incredible and intellectually stimulating, but eventually I got to the same point as Christine.”
Together, Christine and Peter offer clients a seamless blend of interior design and architectural expertise.
“We’ve collaborated and helped each other out on outside projects, but this is a whole new adventure,” Peter says. “We each bring different strengths to the table. Christine has a strong sense for interiors, I bring the architectural structure. Together, it’s a symbiotic relationship—a fullcircle approach.”
Photo courtesy of Studio CME
Photo courtesy of Studio CME
Photo courtesy of Studio CME
Whether it’s an intimate remodel or a large-scale commercial project, Studio CME approaches every project as a collaborative journey—tailoring each space to reflect the client’s vision, the site’s potential, and the project’s purpose. The process begins with a simple question: What are your goals? That clarity of vision anchors every design decision. So even if it’s just five words—colorful, calming, moody, subtle, clean , for example—every choice moving forward must align with those five words.
“I’ve learned so much about the business side of things in my career—managing projects, working with clients, helping them stay within budget,” Christine says. “Wearing both hats—as a designer and in my corporate roles—really showed me how important it is to understand a project’s parameters.”
In the golden age of HGTV and Pinterest, clients are more design-savvy than ever—but that also means they’re often overwhelmed by too many options.
“If someone wants something clean and simple but falls in love with a trendy light fixture, I try to steer them back to their original goals,” Christine tells us. She goes on to liken the Studio CME approach to branding.
“A lot of times, corporate design is an extension of a company’s brand. I think residential design, for many people, is an extension of their personal brand. How do you want to present yourself? How do you want to live? It always comes back to your goals.”
Once the plans are in place, Studio CME brings a unique service not commonly offered by interior designers in the area. They work hand in hand with furniture dealers, who purchase and store all furniture until the project is complete and everything is ready to be installed.
“Projects are stressful,” Christine admits. “They take forever, things are late, there are people working in your house. It’s hard! So the furniture dealers are just another partner in the process.”
The combined expertise of Christine and Peter adds an extra layer of flexibility to any project. An interiors project may require architectural insight. Likewise, an architectural project may benefit from an intuitive interior touch. For example, a kitchen renovation might evolve into moving the placement of a window—just to better catch the sunset.
“My philosophy about design in general is that it’s all interconnected,” Christine says. “Even with nature. I really try to infuse that in my practice. I’m always thinking about the views, the light.”
“I try to bring a thoughtful, client-centered approach to my work,” Peter adds. “Whether designing a cultural institution or a private home, I enjoy working with clients who are personally invested in their spaces.”
From a kitchen remodel to a whole-house gut renovation, a doctor’s office makeover to a brand-new theater, Studio CME’s mission is to transform your living and working spaces into havens of style and functionality.
“We’d love to support local shops, restaurants, or offices with quick refreshes,” Christine tells us. “Just a few key changes can make a big difference. Sometimes, you stop seeing what’s right in front of you. A little outside perspective can really transform a space.”
With shared values, complementary skills, and a passion for connecting with their community, Christine and Peter are building more than another ordinary firm—they’re helping redefine what integrated design can look like in Ridgefield.
“We love Ridgefield,” Peter says. “We’re really looking forward to the opportunity to engage with the community on all different levels and help people enjoy the place that we’ve enjoyed as a home so much.”
Please visit studio-cme.com to learn more and follow along on Instagram @studiocme for design advice and to see recent projects.
ST. STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY
300 Years of Faith, Fellowship, and Forward Momentum
This year, one of Main Street’s most iconic facades marks its 300th anniversary—not just as a place of worship, but as a vibrant community hub that has woven itself into the fabric of Ridgefield for centuries.
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church was founded in 1725 by Reverend Samuel Johnson, a native of Stratford. The current stone sanctuary, built in 1915, is only the church’s fourth on the same plot of land. Remarkably, only 40 rectors have served in its 300-year history.
Today, the 41st rector, Reverend Dr. Whitney Altopp, is stewarding the congregation into its next chapter as the first woman to serve in the role.
“We love our history,” says Rev. Whitney, “and we are very much alive. We take joy in the fact that we get to be here and to be present in this time. It’s amazing to be 300 years old. The world has done a lot of changing.”
That evolution is central to St. Stephen’s mission, where inclusion, compassion, and innovation walk hand in hand with tradition.
“We got a new rector with the new church in 1915,” parishioner Rob Kinnaird tells us. “Rev. William B. Lusk served from 1915 to 1950 when Aaron Manderbach came… and he served until 1980. That’s two rectors in 65 years. When I was a child, women were only allowed to prepare the altar—not celebrate a service behind it.”
Reverend Dr. Whitney Altopp. Photo by Michelle C. Photography.
Parishioners Sue McKnight and Danny Cutting in the St. Stephen’s Samaritan Garden
Today, St. Stephen’s is known not only for its inclusivity— there’s a sign outside the sanctuary that reads: “The seats in this church are free. All are welcome,”—but as a place where people show up for one another. Through volunteering, partnerships, meetings, and outreach, the parish is a place that’s constantly striving to make the world a better, more compassionate place.
Parishioner Linda Hutchings started the local Community Food Rescue, a nonprofit that collects surplus food from local stores and redistributes it to seniors and food pantries.
Volunteers stock shelves weekly for Daily Bread Food Pantry, tend the on-site Samaritan Garden which supplies fresh produce for Meals on Wheels, and collect non-perishables for the Souper Bowl of Caring food drive each February.
“We don’t just gather to worship—we gather to serve,” Rev. Whitney says. “We organize people for ministry, and we empower one another to be the church outside our doors.”
Laundry Love is an initiative which distributes prepaid laundry cards to neighbors struggling financially. The Diaper Ministry, led by Siobhan Santini and her sister Stephanie, collects and distributes diapers and wipes throughout the local area. Through Housatonic Habitat for Humanity, volunteers help build, renovate, and repair homes for those in need.
Each year, the church partners with the nonprofit Hour Children for a toy drive that provides holiday gifts for incarcerated mothers at Bedford Hills Correctional Facility to give to their children. For many summers, St. Stephen’s parishioners also served as host families for those children, offering them a week of fun activities, meaningful connection, and the opportunity to visit their mothers.
The St. Stephen’s campus is always buzzing with activity. RCK Preschool operates on the ground floor of North Hall, with meetings and events held above and church offices above that. Behind the sanctuary, daily AA meetings take
place in the Meeting Barn—reinforcing the church’s commitment to healing, dignity, and belonging.
Two beloved concerts invite the broader community in: Carols by Candlelight in December, and a Black History Month Concert in February honoring the contributions of Black Americans through music.
“We do a good job of recognizing that it’s hard to be human,” Rev. Whitney reflects. “Somehow, we’ve got to show up for life, even if we’re not quite sure how to do it all.”
St. Stephen’s celebrated its tricentennial with events peppered throughout the year. A highlight was an evening of personal story telling held at Ridgefield Theater Barn. A commemorative cookbook and photo-history book have been published—the latter of which will be available at Books on the Common at the end of the month. Celebrations will culminate with a gala on September 27 at Lounsbury House.
Three hundred years in, St. Stephen’s remains a beacon of service and hope—proof that a church is not just about faith or buildings. It’s about the community of people who care for one another selflessly and without hesitation.
“It’s that opportunity for connection, for making the world a better place,” parishioner Siobhan Santini tells us. “That’s what makes St. Stephen’s so special.”
Parishioner Linda Hutchings with the Community Food Rescue Farmers’ Truck
Laundry Love in action
ELEVATING FAMILIES
How SpireTHERAPY Is Redefining Mental Health Support for Kids and Parents
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATASHA FLEMING PHOTOGRAPHY
Denise Santangelo may be petite in stature, but she’s impossible to miss. Whether she’s sporting sky-high heels, donning her signature cowboy hat, or wearing a Rubik’s Cube dress (she learned to solve the puzzle in her 40s), the founder of SpireTHERAPY radiates warmth, energy, and compassion.
“I really believe you’re only as old as you feel, and I feel young, happy, and energetic. Kids respond to that— because that’s who they are.”
A former litigator in New York City, Denise pivoted careers in the late 2010s, hoping to bring more meaning to her life.
That instinct to give back—and go all in—is at the heart of SpireTHERAPY, the mental health practice Denise founded in 2019.
Now a certified ADHD specialist, women’s health specialist, and dual-certified child and family trauma therapist, she’s also certified in DBT and currently training in EMDR for both children and adults.
“I wanted to do something that gave back to humanity,” Denise explains. “Spire means highest point—it symbolizes elevation. So the name reflects how we help individuals and families rise to their highest potential.”
In her personal life, no one has helped Denise reach her potential more than her husband, Rich Rodriguez. The two were study partners in law school
and married nearly 20 years ago, just before graduating and studying for the Bar Exam. He later encouraged her to pursue her dream—and even came up with the name “Spire.”
“My husband and our children, Blake and Declan, are my foundation and inspiration,” Denise says. “Rich is my everything—from Spire’s General Counsel to COO to the implementer. I bring the vision, he refines it into a viable plan, and together we make it a reality. Without the three of them, SpireTHERAPY would not be what it is today.”
What began as a one-woman show has evolved into a practice with six clinicians, an executive assistant and social media director, two locations (Ridgefield and Westport), and a growing number of specialty programs—including an after-school ADHD program.
Still, at its core, Spire’s mission remains the same: to lift the entire family unit.
The SpireTHERAPY team
Top: Denise with Chief of Staff Casey Lowth
Bottom: The SpirED Thrive After 3 space in Westport
“My quirky side—the cowboy hat, the fun clothes—I bring that energy into every session. Sometimes I forget my own age. I really believe you’re only as old as you feel, and I feel young, happy, and energetic. Kids respond to that—because that’s who they are. And I think adults crave it. If they had more of that lightness in their daily lives, they might not get so caught up in things that don’t really matter.”
When Denise first started Spire, she noticed something.
“Kids would come in and say, ‘I’ve done therapy before—but my mom sat in at the start, so I didn’t really say anything because I knew it wasn’t private.’ There was no autonomy.”
The Spire approach uses Denise’s patented SpireMETHOD, which is both singular and multifaceted. It supports the child, equips the parents, and bridges the two in a way that fosters growth for everyone. Parents stay fully involved through regular updates and expert coaching, with Denise acting as a liaison—offering support while also honoring each child’s need for autonomy.
“I work with the parents to help them craft the instructions their kiddos weren’t born with!”
Many of Spire’s clients are kids navigating emotional regulation issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and the myriad challenges associated with puberty— while their parents are simultaneously managing perimenopause, menopause, aging parents, and their own shifting identities.
“It can feel like everything is unraveling at once,” Denise says. “Our goal is to support the entire family through these transitions. Kids receive one-on-one therapy focused on distress tolerance, emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, confidence-building, mindfulness—all while developing the self-awareness needed for lasting growth. At the same time, we equip parents with tools to regulate
themselves, recognize their own patterns, and shift generational dynamics. Everyone receives confidential support, and we collaborate when needed so the whole family can grow—and lift—together.”
Through this unique approach—and word-of-mouth in a post-COVID world—Spire grew. And grew.
“I hated when a parent would call and tell me how difficult their situation was and I had to say, ‘Sorry, you're on a waitlist.’ So I started writing everything I was doing down, and that became the SpireMETHOD. I found that if I could create a curriculum, a program, then I could train someone else to use it and replicate what I was doing in my therapy room in the one next to me. It allowed me to grow with the right people and the right method—so I’d never have to turn a family away or make them wait.”
Spire recently opened a second location in Westport. This serves as the hub for SpirED—Thrive After 3 (more on that in a bit)—and has an office for individual sessions, too.
The Spire staff runs the gamut from warm and fuzzy to direct and candid. Clinicians include Denise, Casey Lowth (who also serves as Chief of Staff), Christie Boysan Ippolito, Jennifer Perez, Rachel Licamele, and Claudia Pomponi. Alyssa Mondia is Denise’s Executive Assistant and Social Media Director, while Rich Rodriguez handles all the operations and legal questions as the GC and COO.
Each clinician follows Denise’s curriculum, focusing on building emotional awareness, distress tolerance, executive functioning, and impulse control, while reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Therapy is tailored to each client’s needs, and for younger children, it often incorporates art, music, bibliotherapy, and play.
“Children process, learn skills, and talk to you through play. Whether it’s art, games, or music, kids are using modalities that are more than just words.”
In addition to one-on-one therapy, Spire offers small group Workshops, providing a safe, supportive environment for elementary, middle, and high school students navigating anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, impulse control, and executive functioning challenges. These groups blend peer connection with evidence-based strategies like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques. Virtual companion workshops are available for parents so they can reinforce these skills at home.
As the Workshops gained traction, Denise noticed that those focused on impulse control and executive functioning were consistently full.
“I didn’t call them ADHD groups because not everyone had a diagnosis. But when I saw how many kids were attending, I realized there was a bigger need in the community—both for the kids and their families.”
Enter: Thrive After 3. Part of SpirED (ED for Spire Therapy’s ED ucation series), Thrive After 3 offers ADHD therapy, coaching, and support in a fun, engaging, and
structured setting. Open to students in grades 1–12, the program runs in 3- or 6-month cycles with rolling enrollment. Kindergarteners receive support through the oneon-one therapy program.
“We’re able to offer the best of both worlds: the individualized depth of one-on-one therapy and the group dynamic of the Workshops—all in one place,” Denise says.
Using the SpireMETHOD, Thrive After 3 helps kids harness the strengths of ADHD—creativity, energy, hyper-focus—while building essential tools for emotional regulation, executive functioning, and task management.
“We want to enhance all of the amazing parts of their ADHD while helping them hone the parts that can get away from them if they’re not in control. Our goal is to help kids thrive not just in school, but in life. We don’t blunt what makes ADHD amazing—we build on it.”
Today, Spire is a truly multifaceted operation, offering a range of dynamic programs and platforms. There’s SpireTHERAPY, SpirED, Dynamical Neurofeedback (which is especially helpful for clients with ADHD), and the soonto-launch SpireBALL—a community wiffle ball league for all ages. Denise also has two podcasts—“The Spired Podcast” and “Legal Fate and Mental State,” and a growing online presence.
“‘The Spired Podcast’ will be special. It’s about going through the things we all go through—but learning how to do it better,” Denise says. “There will be a big focus on ADHD, but also on anxiety, depression, and mindset shifting. It’s about helping people move forward with strength, confidence, and balance.”
On “Legal Fate and Mental State,” Denise brings her mental health expertise while Rich weighs in as the resident attorney.
“We dive into today’s hottest criminal court cases with sharp insight and zero fluff—think legal tea, served raw,” she says.
SpireBALL, meanwhile, was born from the family’s love of wiffle ball. At home, they’ve built a full field with official specs, foul poles, a scoreboard, and rollaway lights for nighttime games.
“I wanted to create a fun sports league that doesn’t require you to be particularly sporty—you just need to be interested in fun, movement, and hanging with family and friends,” she says. “There are so many levels of good, clean fun, and I just want to bring that to our amazing community. The goal is to offer these games later than usual, under the lights, so kids have more to do after hours—and parents can cheer them on into the night!”
Though SpireTHERAPY is private pay, the team works closely with families on out-of-network reimbursement. Denise has spent years crafting a comprehensive “Super Bill” that can be uploaded to insurance portals to help offset costs. Workshops are reimbursable, and she’s CONTINUED >
actively working to secure the same for Thrive After 3. In some cases, families have even secured in-network waivers due to Spire’s unique curriculumbased services.
Denise’s enthusiasm, excitement, and energy know no bounds—and have no boundaries.
Rich laughs, telling us how, recently, “She shook me awake at 2 a.m., eyes wild with another truly brilliant idea to help kids embrace their true selves. I blinked, smiled, and said, ‘Fantastic! Now kindly write it down and let’s revisit after coffee—and sunrise.’”
Not so long ago, while visiting her family home, Denise saw a photo of herself with a group of friends from high school. She was wearing JNCO jeans and a Bug Girl t-shirt—while her friends were more conservatively dressed in khakis and polos.
“It never occurred to me at the time how stylistically different I was from my friends. I never felt different—I was just being myself. And that’s what I try to help my clients do: be fully, unapologetically themselves. My goal is to help kids and families be their true selves—with the good and not-so-good all mixed together. Balance is the key to success, and I want to bring that everywhere.”
“My goal is to help kids and families be their true selves— with the good and not-sogood all mixed together.”
Denise also serves as Chair of the Ridgefield Prevention Council, where she brings the heart of SpireTHERAPY into the community. Her mission, she tells us, is to spark real conversations and create events that get families fired up about mental health—not just as a response, but as a tool for preventing destructive decisions before they start.
SpireTHERAPY is located in Ridgefield at 415 Main Street and in Westport at 205 Main Street.
Visit spireTHERAPY.com to learn more and follow along on Instagram @SpireTHERAPYCT and YouTube @SelfSPIRED
ARTICLE BY KATIE PARRY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ZARINE PHOTOGRAPHY
MY MAMA MADE
Meet Ju Da Silva, the Seamstress Behind Ridgefield’s Expert Tailoring and Bespoke Clothing
Ju Da Silva was just eight years old when she first picked up a sewing needle.
We’re sitting in the sun-drenched living room of her daughter’s home in Branchville. Vibrant green plants spill from nearly every surface, and the space feels bright, cheerful, and alive—just like Ju herself.
“I come from a very humble family,” Ju tells us in Portuguese, with her daughter, Vivian Brown, translating. “My mother used to sew by hand. We lived on a farm in Brazil, and she made clothes for her nine siblings. My mom taught me how to sew, and I started making outfits for my younger brothers and sisters.”
Ju grew up in Bocaiuva, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and has been working as a seamstress for nearly three decades.
“I always had a little studio at home in Brazil,” she says. “Eventually, a friend and I opened a children’s clothing store called B Happy.”
The shop was successful, but Ju’s reputation grew exponentially by word of mouth from satisfied customers.
“This was before influencers,” she says with a laugh. “I had famous clients. People traveled from far away to come and see me. I was making clothes that people loved. They would tell their friends, and suddenly I was very busy.”
“I don’t know how the building manager allowed it!” Vivian says. “The stream of clients filtering through our apartment was nonstop. I’d be on the couch, and people were just in and out all day.”
Vivian met her husband, Robert Brown, in Pennsylvania in 2007, and after a stint in Brazil, the couple settled in Ridgefield in 2014. They now have two boys—one in sixth grade and one in second. In
2020, Ju received her Green Card and moved to Ridgefield to be closer to her daughter.
Vivian, a self-proclaimed tomboy, had never taken to wearing dresses. But Ju was thrilled to finally have an excuse to sew for her daughter, creating beautiful pieces for Vivian to wear while singing as a worship leader at various churches in the area.
“Every time she made me a new dress, I’d post a photo and say, ‘Look what my mama made me to wear this Sunday!’” Vivian tells us. “People would comment, ‘Wow, she made that?’ So I started a social media page to showcase her work.”
The name stuck. My Mama Made started small, with Ju doing mostly alterations and making clothes for friends and acquaintances. They didn’t advertise—and didn’t need to. Word of mouth once again brought clients in droves.
During a routine check-up last year, Ju’s doctor discovered something concerning in her bloodwork. She was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), a slow-growing blood cancer.
“I take a chemotherapy pill daily, which has some side effects,” Ju says. “But I’m still able to go to the gym. I eat, sleep, work—and I feel good.”
Ju is very happy to have her work, which keeps her busy. The magic happens in her workshop—which doubles as a cozy one-bedroom apartment at the top of a building in town. (It’s 60 steps up with no elevator, so Ju instead meets with clients at Vivian’s house.)
Her dedicated workspace is lined with sewing machines, colorful spools of thread, a large white work table, and mannequins draped in fabric awaiting their transformation.
Ju’s talent is astonishing. She can turn a wedding gown into a baptism dress, tailor a pair of jeans to perfection, or create a custom design from a single photograph. She also makes quilts, both stylish and sentimental (think: a cozy keepsake made from childhood t-shirts or college gear).
Ju does all of this in her head, seemingly effortlessly, transforming a bolt of fabric into a breathtaking bespoke dress in days.
“I’ve never seen her use a pattern,” Vivian tells us, in awe of her mama’s talent. “It’s a gift—almost supernatural. She made my wedding dress. If I show her a picture, she’ll make exactly what I want. She takes your measurements and brings it to life.”
Many clients bring their own fabric for Ju to work with. If she needs to source something, her go-to store is Banksville Designer Fabrics in New Canaan. Just days before our photo shoot, they selected the
vibrant fabric for Ju’s stunning dress and the luxurious velvet Vivian is wearing.
And if there’s one thing Ju is known for—besides her precision and creativity—it’s speed.
“She’s fast,” Vivian says. “Very fast!”
Ju is the only professional standalone seamstress in town who can create works of art from bolts of fabric. There are tailors at dry cleaners, yes—but Vivian says clients often come to Ju either to fix mistakes or because they’ve been told what they wanted was “impossible.”
Despite her immense talent, Ju rarely sews for herself.
“In Brazil, there is a saying: ‘In the house of the blacksmith, the skewer is made of wood.’ You give so much to others, you forget yourself,” she tells us.
We asked how her handmade creations compared to fast fashion brands like Shein or Amazon. Ju didn’t hesitate.
“There’s no comparison. I make everything with love and dedication. It’s made for your body and fits better. The fabric lasts longer. It’s about quality,” she says.
My Mama Made offers competitive pricing: simple hems start at $25, layered hems range from $30–35, and
“I make everything with love and dedication. It’s made for your body and fits better. The fabric lasts longer. It’s about quality.”
bespoke dresses begin around $60 if fabric is provided. Prices increase depending on the complexity of the piece and fabric sourcing needs.
“I love Brazil—it’s my home,” Ju says. “But Ridgefield has welcomed me with open arms. I’m happy to be here. I love what I do. It gives my life purpose.”
To connect with Ju or inquire about a custom piece, you can text or call Vivian at 203-505-3793.
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SEPTEMBER 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 11TH
America250 Community Conversation: “Get to Know the Declaration of Independence”
Ridgefield Library | 7:00 PM
America250 Community Conversations, led by Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center and Ridgefield Library, invite adults and teens to explore the Declaration of Independence through guided discussion and close reading. The first Community Conversation, “Get to Know the Declaration of Independence: A Founding Document Close Reading,” encourages audience participation. Copies available to check out from the library one month prior. Free! Register at ridgefieldlibrary.org
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Trail Mix Series Races: Where the Pavement Ends
Lake Windwing | 7:00 AM
Both courses start and finish at the Lake Windwing ballfields, winding through the rocky, technical terrain of the Hemlock Hills and Pine Mountain open spaces. The 8-mile race begins at 7:00 AM; the 4.25-mile course at 7:30 AM. Newer trail runners are encouraged to opt for the shorter course. Visit runsignup.com and search for race ID 27881 to register.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
“Shakespeare’s Queens”: A Play by Poornima Kirby
Ridgefield Library | 2:00 PM
Created and performed by Shakespearean actress, Poornima Kirby, this jewel of a play dances between Elizabeth’s story, and Shakespeare’s own life as a writer and father to two strong-minded daughters. With history, humor and sparkling poetry, “Shakespeare’s Queens” is a heartfelt and refreshing exploration of some of the Bard’s loveliest verse. Free! Get tickets at ridgefieldlibrary.org
SEPTEMBER 20TH
4th Annual Ridgebury Farm Fête
Ridgebury Farm | 6:00 PM
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 4th Annual Ridgebury Farm Fête! Enjoy live music, a thoughtfully curated menu, and the chance to connect with friends and neighbors in a magical setting. Proceeds benefit Ridgebury Farm’s GROW program, which provides life-changing, nature-based therapy at no cost to families in need. Tickets available at RFfete2025.givesmart.com
SEPTEMBER 26TH
Under the Harvest Moon
Woodcock Nature Center | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a relaxed evening of food, live music, and community—all to support Woodcock Nature Center’s beloved environmental education programs. Savor fare from chefs Sarah and Bernard Bouïssou of À Table, plus wine, spirits, and local brews. A virtual silent auction includes a private beekeeping experience and summer camp spot, while live auction items feature a Wreath Festival package and private pavilion events. Tickets available at woodcocknaturecenter.org/harvestmoon.
SEPTEMBER 28TH
Gazillion Bubble Show
Ridgefield Playhouse | 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM
Prepare to be amazed by the world-famous Gazillion Bubble Show! This mind-blowing show combines the beauty of bubble artistry, the wonders of soapy science, and interactive musical fun for the whole family. With mesmerizing bubble magic, immersive lights and lasers, and high-energy music, it’s a spellbinding experience for all ages. Visit ridgefieldplayhouse.org for tickets.
THIS IS YOUR TICKET TO THE ELICIT EXPERIENCE THIS IS YOUR TICKET TO THE ELICIT EXPERIENCE
