Be You!
Dear Reader,
I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy.
Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Lynn Harris | lynn.harris@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Stephanie Padula | stephanie.padula@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Kevin Harris | kevin.harris@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Erica Landis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chelsea Doyle, Craig Smith Photography
Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.
As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in town to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity and ignite your creativity.
What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on earth can duplicate.
Here’s to being uniquely you!
LYNN HARRIS, PUBLISHER
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1: R Studio Beauty hosted a Reiki-infused New Moon Sound Bath event on July 5th 2: Christina and the Gents performed at Fanwood Fan Jam on July 14th 3: Photographer, Craig Smith, captures moments from a 50th birthday party 4: Campers enjoyed the pool at the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA 5: Spavia of Clark Commons offered complimentary chair massages at Fanwood Fan Jam 6: Family Investors Company was a presenting sponsor at Fan Jam 7: Tony Bianchino and the Out Run Your Fork team at Fan Jam.
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN SEPTEMBER 2024 Want
Jacob Morell stars in new movie, “Between The Temples”
Scotch Plains resident Jacob Morell celebrates the recently released film “Between The Temples” where he plays a younger version of the star Jason Shwartzman’s character, Ben. Morell attends high school at Union County Vocational at the Academy Of Performing Arts in Scotch Plains where he majors in theatre. “Between the Temples” is a movie that celebrates Judaism and the importance of becoming a bar mitzvah/bat mitzvah.
Michele Sobel Fine Art
Michele Sobel, a Scotch Plains mom of two painted her first handbag in 2020. And as they say, the rest is history! Since then, she has been making beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces by painting her clients designer handbags and luxury goods. Michele also collaborates with luxury brands and stores to offer on-site customization experiences for their customers such as Bloomingdales, Saks, Ralph Lauren, and many more! Check out Michele’s beautiful work on her Instagram @michelesobel_fineart.
Joan Marie Photography moves locations
Nestled in between two local favorites, Sunny Side Studio and Big C’s Italian Grill, on 1589 E 2nd Street in Scotch Plains, Joan Marie Photography has found its new home! The recently updated space offers ample space for multiple setups and new offerings! Joan is looking forward to continuing to photograph you and your families while also opening her space to some new offerings and events! To be the first to know, sign up for her newsletter!
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ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
Success THE SECRETS TO
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PARTNER IN WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Being in the financial industry for the past 25 years, Jose H. Monroy Jr., CFP®, has worked for powerhouses such as Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley and UBS. In 2018, he took over the Edward Jones office in Scotch Plains. “It was originally opened by Steven F. Prato in 1994, and was one of the first Edward Jones offices in New Jersey,” he says. “I’m so grateful to Steve.” Jose became a limited partner at Edward Jones in 2023.
“I believe three things are important in becoming successful in whatever field you choose. One is you have to believe in yourself; two is hard work; and three is the power of connections. Connections open doors and hard work gets you through the door.”
Edward Jones has a different business structure than its competitors which is what drew Jose to the firm. It’s a partnership that allows its financial advisors to work in a single advisor office alongside their branch office administrator in order to serve the clients in the communities in which they operate.
In this case, the branch office administrator is his wife, Ana Julia Gomes, with whom he has three children. “She joined me in this capacity here in the office in 2019,” says Jose.
As a financial advisor, he enjoys helping clients make the best decisions for financial health. “I have a new client with whom I've been working for a few months and helping her consolidate all of her financial matters,” he says. “Her words to me were, ‘No one has ever helped me in my life in the manner in which you have.’ I find this so rewarding.”
Growing up in Elizabeth in a non-English speaking household, Jose didn’t always picture himself in the wealth management industry. “I believe three things are important in becoming successful in whatever field you choose,” he says. “One is you have to believe in yourself; two is hard work; and three is the power of connections. Connections open doors and hard work gets you through the door.”
In order to foster these connections, he recommends asking senior personnel for assistance, and then letting your work shine so that it’ll create opportunities to meet the right people.
To design a smart financial plan for you and your family, reach out to Jose. He would love to assist you.
Rstudio
ARTICLE BY ERICA LANDIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA DOYLE
With devoted clients ranging in age from their 30s to their 80s, Regina B. Smith provides luxury self-care services in a calming space.
Beauty
As a little girl, Regina B. Smith loved to color. With a coloring book and crayons, she was happily busy for hours. To Regina, the world of color was full of possibilities. As she got older, coloring evolved into makeup. “I was the one among my friends and family who did all the girls’ makeup – so I was always the last one to arrive at the event!” she said laughing. “But I didn’t mind. I loved it.”
“I grew up with the entrepreneurial spirit in my blood. My parents owned a dry-cleaning business. It was the first black-owned business with multiple locations in the Peapack-Gladstone area with clients like Jackie Onassis. I can remember driving around with my father in his work van with my coloring book and crayons along for the ride,” Regina said.
That feeling – and talent – made her a sought-after makeup artist with names like M.A.C., Chanel, and Laura Mercier just to name a few. She attended NYC’s Fashion Institute of Technology where she studied
fashion merchandising, buying, and marketing which only added to the driving force behind all she did -beautifying and uplifting clients and friends alike.
After earning her esthetics license in 2004, skincare became her focus after being recruited by Dr. Howard Murad Skincare. As a spa and retail trainer, her territory grew from the tri-state area all the way to Hong Kong. While at a trade show during her career at Murad, Regina fell in love with a new beauty innovation – eyelash extensions. “I was just amazed! I knew I needed to bring it to my clients.”
CONTINUED >
“WOMEN AR E NURTURERS – ALWAYSCARING FOR OTHERS. IT’ S IMPORTANT TO TAKETIME TO BREATHE . ”
Not long after that trade show, Regina found the stars aligning for change. After being laid off from Murad, she knew where she wanted to take her career next. Regina went to train at Xtremelashes, also crediting that training with giving her the tools and confidence to open her own business.
“I was living in Scotch Plains for 15 years and had just registered my son, Allen, at St. Joseph’s school in Metuchen. I figured if I could get just 10 clients a month, I could pay his tuition. I began as a mobile service - bringing all my supplies to local salons. I just wanted people to give it a try.” With Regina’s skill and radiant personality, lashes began catching on. Her first space was in a Millburn salon until Hurricane Sandy flooded the downtown.
Never deterred, Regina then opened Rstudio Lash Spa in Westfield where she remained for ten years until recently moving her studio to Scotch Plains and renaming it Rstudio Beauty. “I loved my space on Quimby Street, but parking was a growing issue. It was detracting from the relaxation my clients were seeking. My new studio in Scotch Plains is a parking dream and no steps to climb.” Regina has also incorporated wellness into this new serene space with special breathwork and sound bath events.
“My clients have done their research. They come because they trust me for the impeccable sanitation and sterilization as well as beautiful eyelashes. Every service is customized to their individual needs.”
Many of Regina’s clients began wanting lashes for a one-time special event. But after seeing and feeling the difference, they’ve continued coming for a decade. At the urging of her snowbird clients, Regina opened a second location in Delray Beach, Florida.
“People look at this as therapy while getting their lashes done,” Regina says. “Lying down for a minimum of an hour on our heated treatment beds and taking a ‘beauty nap’ is a big part of self-care. Women are nurturers – always caring for others. It’s important to take time to breathe.”
Rstudio Beauty offers all lash services plus luxury skincare, brow services, and massage. With a treasured team that Regina calls extensions of her family, trust and consistency are key.
MONTH ONLY , enjoy a complimentary polish (valued at $375) when you choose our Ceramic Coating protection. This unbeatable combo ensures your car not only looks stunning but stays protected against the elements. ONLY Ceramic in Union County NJ with a Warranty backed by Insurance.
b3 Mindful Flow | Dynamic and breathdriven, this practice improves mobility and increases stability, while promoting active recovery and fostering harmony in the body.
Balanced in body, empowered from within: The transformative power of our workouts is more than physical - and extends far beyond the studio. Barre3 isn’t just about the time you spend strengthening and balancing your body; it’s about the empowerment you carry with you the rest of the day.
You’ll love it because it can stand on its own, or you can stack it with one of our other workouts - b3 Signature, b3 Cardio, or b3 Strength
908.264.8038
barre3.com/studio-locations/westfield 276 North Avenue East, Westfield, NJ
Since 1959, the doctors and team members of Dentalcare Associates have been dedicated to excellence in dentistry and we cordially invite you to join our dental family. All phases of dentistry are offered in a comfortable, modern office setting. Our goal is to provide our patients a healthy smile for a lifetime!
DENTALCARE
Preventive care • Checkups and cleanings
Tooth Whitening • Cosmetic Bonding
Porcelain Veneers • Ceramic Crowns
Invisalign clear aligners
Implant supported crowns and bridges
Periodontal (gum) treatment • Extractions
Emergency services
DENTURES AND SAME DAY REPAIRS
Full and partial dentures
Flexible partials • Implant overdentures
Laboratory on premises All repairs schedule permitting
and evening appointments
Afternoon appointments for students walking from School One, Nettingham, St. Barts, SPFHS
Treat Yourself at Able Body Spa & Mia Belle Salon
TRENDS IN WELLNESS EVOLVE, BUT TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE.
ARTICLE BY JOSEPHINE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA DOYLE
“My goal is to provide cutting-edge services that will change the way you look and feel. Whether you are a teenager, a senior citizen, or somewhere in between, you will leave Able Body Spa feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.”
Massages and skin care have always been a part of Ruth Wolinsky’s life. As a licensed Skin Care Specialist and Massage Therapist with over twenty-five years experience in the health and beauty industry, Ruth has worked at several high-end day spas over the years and worked as a backstage massage therapist at Victoria's Secret's Fashion Show and many celebrity concert events at Madison Square Garden and the Beacon Theater in New York City. Completing various licensing requirements in Skin Care and Massage Therapy, including a certification in Paramedical Esthetics, Ruth continues to pursue ongoing professional training and certifications in both fields. In 2013 she traveled abroad to complete an extensive 2,500+ hour training in medical esthetics and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Upon completing her training, she realized there was so much more to offer New Jersey residents. That was the driving force behind opening Able Body Spa in Scotch Plains NJ.
“In trying to offer my clients more cutting-edge technology and treatment, I came across treatments offered through Venus Concepts.
The Venus Legacy™ is a highly advanced non-invasive medical device that effectively resolves face and body aesthetic needs, such as non-surgical cellulite reduction, skin tightening, and wrinkle reduction. Treatments are comfortable with no downtime and are safe for all skin types. Venus Viva resurfaces skin with nanofractional radiofrequency (RF) energy to treat fine lines and deep wrinkles, acne scars, large pores, uneven skin texture, stretch marks, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, including melasma by stimulating natural collagen production. The Venus Viva treatment is typically followed by red light therapy which improves cell function and repair.”
Ruth strives to provide her staff members ongoing training, support and the encouragement they need to provide all our guests a memorable experience with amazing results! Ruth explains, "My goal is to provide cutting-edge services that will change the way you look and feel. Whether you are a teenager, a senior citizen, or somewhere in between, you will leave Able Body Spa feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Join Able Body Spa and Mia Belle Salon in celebrating their ten year anniversary this September!
Personal Training With An Emphasis On The Person
A FITNESS AND NUTRITION PROGRAM
FOCUSED ON SMILES AND RESULTS!
ARTICLE BY ERICA LANDIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
For Tony Bianchino, owner of Out Run Your Fork Personal Training and Nutrition in Westfield, fitness changed the trajectory of his life. “I was 17 years old and my life was not moving in the direction I wanted it to go. My sister’s boyfriend suggested I give the gym a try and I was hooked.”
After college, Tony went into investment banking, but always continued doing personal training outside of that hectic NYC commute. In July 2011 it was time for a change.
Tony went back to personal training full-time and immediately fell back in love with it. “We quickly opened our own facility in order to create a uniquely fun and vibrant experience for our clients!” - the “we” being Tony’s wife, Melissa, also a personal trainer and massage therapist at Out Run Your Fork.
“Working together has been great for our marriage,” Tony said “Prior to opening the studio we worked separately, plus our daughter, Kira, has autism and that can make it tough for us to get time together. But the gym has really allowed us to reconnect.” Tony and Melissa are parents to daughter, Kira, 21, and son, Cale, 19.
“Our clients are great human beings. I wake up every morning super excited and happy to do what I do. I‘m grateful they're in my life and help them in the same way you’d help your kids - with that same parental obligation. It's as fulfilling to see them achieve their goals as it is to see your kids grow up.”
Cale works part-time at the gym doing Out Run Your Fork’s social media while attending Ryder College in Lawrenceville. “It forces him to spend extra time with me,” Tony laughs. “Plus, we work out together and having someone to work out with makes it much more fun.”
Tony originally developed his unique 30-minute workout program to address his own challenges – a busy working parent, always in a time crunch, and dealing with aging and non-workout related injuries.
“People feel fragile when they have an injury. I relate because I've been through it and that creates empathy. My wife has been through menopause and knows what that feels like. Then there are the challenges of a busy work schedule, crazy kids’ schedules, sports, figuring out what to eat and how to find the time to prepare healthy food, and so much more. So, when you have that experience, there's not just empathy, but there's a true understanding and a solution on how to come out the other side.”
At Out Run Your Fork, nutrition counseling and personal training are combined together to provide an end-to-end solution. “One or two small changes can have a big impact. We’ll create an easy-to-follow nutrition plan that gets great results without interrupting your already busy life. Plus, by only making a few small changes, not only will you get results now, but it’ll be sustainable for life.”
Scheduling sessions is a breeze. We have the greatest number of available sessions during the week (6 am to 8 pm M-F) PLUS we’re here Saturday and Sunday, too! Nobody else can match that.
Tony’s clients want to lose weight or manage a healthy weight. They want to build strength, feel better, sleep better, have more energy, feel younger, and do it all in minimal time without risking injury. There is an injury prevention and recovery protocol built into every session.
“Exercise, fitness and getting a healthy life should be fun! I mean, if you're not having fun, what's the point?”
LEARN MORE: Out Run York Fork encourages people to set up a free consultation to check out the facility and see if it’s right for you. You can call 908-224-6855 or email hello@outrunyourfork.com to learn more.
With a passion for storytelling we specialize in capturing life’s most cherished moments.
From weddings, family gatherings, branding and corporate events.
We are dedicated to preserving memories that last a lifetime, as well as being experts in visual storytelling that aligns with each clients wants and needs. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or captivating the essence of your brand, trust C Paige
Photography to transform moments into timeless treasures.
Bobby Caffrey is a Licensed Tree Expert and ISA Certified Arborist
goals aren’t achieved overnight.
Whether it’s investing some extra income, preparing a future for your family with your retirement secured, or saving for a home or education costs, we’re here to coach you through it. Contact us today to start creating a financial strategy tailored to your specific needs.
John M Capeci
Financial Advisor
250 South Ave, Ste 101 Fanwood, NJ 07023
908-288-7094
Jose H Monroy Jr, CFP®
Financial Advisor
2277 South Avenue
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
908-518-0788
A FA SHION REVOLUTION
Trailblazers with a proven track record in the disability industry, The Social Status Co., located in downtown Scotch Plains, provides communication services to The Runway of Dreams Foundation, a foundation which empowers people with disabilities to have confidence and self-expression through fashion and beauty inclusion.
JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THE RUNWAY OF DREAMS FOUNDATION’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY AT NEW YORK FASHION WEEK.
ARTICLE
BY STEPHANIE PADULA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SOCIAL STATUS CO.
In 2014, founder Mindy Scheier started Runway of Dreams after being inspired by her son Oliver, who has Muscular Dystrophy and longed to wear jeans like his peers. This experience led her to thoroughly research and develop adaptations to cater to the needs of the vast minority in our society - individuals with disabilities.
Runway of Dreams is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing opportunities for self-expression and confidence through inclusive fashion and beauty. Their mission is to offer exciting and empowering fashion options for people with disabilities. In addition to this, Runway of Dreams strives to increase awareness, educate the public, push for changes within the industry, and nurture the development of the next generation of innovators and leaders. Runway of Dreams is “not just eliciting change – we are leading a fashion revolution.”
The Runway of Dreams Foundation looks towards its 10th anniversary for “A Fashion Revolution” show at New York Fashion Week on September 9th at 6pm in Brooklyn. We turn to appreciate how Scotch Plains resident Ella Lidofsky with mom, Lori walked in Runway of Dreams 2023 Fashion Revolution featuring Adaptive and Universally Designed apparel and footwear from Target and Zappos.
Follow @TheSocialStatusCo on Instagram and meet the team! Head to Runwayofdreams.org to see the highlights from this year's NYFW and JOIN THE REVOLUTION!
Fall Fashion
No other season conjures up more vivid imagery and moody vibes than that of the autumn season. With its rich earthy hues of cinnamon, forest green, and burnt umber, to the luxurious textures of cashmere, wool, and leather, the fall season and the wardrobe that accompanies it is a favorite for many.
As we begin to leave the dreaded humidity of summer behind us, and start to experience those first few crisp mornings and refreshing chill in the air as the sun sets, we can turn our focus from stripping down to stay cool to layering up to look cool.
A great outfit can be broken down into four components. The four components being color palette, base layer, top layer, and accessories such as shoes, bags, jewelry, etc. In addition to that, creating a complete and polished outfit can be achieved by tallying up all items on your body.
Give yourself 1 point for each article of clothing or accessory you’re wearing or 2 points if an item has more interest such as a print or embellishment. When you hit 8 items on your body, then you are in a good place for a great outfit.
Katie Kabel is a Scotch Plains resident, personal stylist, and certified image and color consultant who works with NJ clients in person and virtually with clients from London to Los Angeles.
You can find her at kabelstyles.com
ARTICLE BY KATIE KABEL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLEY STORM BRANDING CO.
WARDROBE STYLING TIPS FROM KABEL STYLES
1) COLOR PALETTE:
If you are feeling lost about how to bring color into your wardrobe look no further than your backyard. Mother nature will inspire you to adorn rich neutrals like camel and chocolate brown, spicy hues such as rust orange and nutmeg, and the wine-inspired shades of burgundy and bordeaux.
2) BASE LAYER:
This is typically a top and bottom or dress. You can keep it as simple as a t-shirt and pair of jeans. Be prepared to layer something over the top of your shirt, blouse, or sweater, and accessories as well.
3) TOP LAYER:
Incorporating a top layer is a breeze once the temperature dips and it’s a sure way to level up any outfit. Whether you choose a classic cashmere cardigan, a refined wool blazer, or an edgy leather bomber, there are boundless options to choose from.
4) ACCESSORIES:
This is where you can get to your 8 points!
A scarf, bag, belt, hoop earrings, or wool beanie will all help create your final and polished look. If wearing color isn’t your thing, incorporating a pop of color in your accessories like a bag or pair of shoes is a great way to have some fun with the rich colors of the season.
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“With its rich earthy hues of cinnamon, forest green, and burnt umber, to the luxurious textures of cashmere, wool, and leather, the fall season and the wardrobe that accompanies it is a favorite for many.”
SEPTEMBER 1ST
The 50th Annual St. Bart's/Unico Italian Festival!
St. Bartholomew the Apostle Parish - 2032 Westfield Ave, Scotch Plains | 4:30 PM
A tradition since 1974! Come out and enjoy the traditional Annual Labor Day Italian Feast, hosted by the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Chapter of UNICO, St. Bartholomew's Church, and St. Bartholomew's Academy. The festival commences August 30th and runs from 4:30pm10:30pm daily until September 2nd, when it runs until 8pm. There is nightly live music to enjoy, rides, games, and great food.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Able Body Spa - 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
405 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains | 10:00 AM
Join Able Body Spa in celebrating its 10-year anniversary on September 14th, with giveaways, light refreshments, live music and complimentary chair massages.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Fanwood Performance Series
Kuran Cultural Arts Center a.k.a. The Carriage House - 135 Watson Road, Fanwood | 7:00 PM
Come out and enjoy the music of Craig Bickhardt and Lynne Hanson. Craig Bickhardt brings his guitar and the "eloquent, often bittersweet songs that have become his trademark." Lynne Hanson performs her "porch music with a little red dirt, "delivered in a bluesy croon. Make reservations by emailing your name, show date and # of seats to fanwoodperformance@gmail.com. Admission: Suggested donation $15 adults / $10 seniors, students, CASH ONLY Doors open 6:30 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 15TH
Fanny Wood Day
South Ave and Martine Ave - historic downtown Fanwood | 10:00 AM
Hosted by the Borough of Fanwood NJ & the Fanny Wood Day Committee. Enjoy a fun-filled street fair packed with food trucks, live music, street vendors, arts & crafts, plus loads of kids activities including silly contests, scavenger hunt, bouncy inflatables, trackless train, body painting and more.
SEPTEMBER 15TH
Out Run Your Fork Grand Opening!
500 Central Ave, Westfield | 12:00 PM
Come meet Out Run Your Fork's new team at the Grand Opening of their brand new, much expanded location at 500 Central Ave, Westfield. Join the team, and partners in the community in games, food, and fun!
SEPTEMBER 24TH
Reiki Sound Therapy and Art Creation
R Studio Beauty - 2277 B South Ave, Scotch Plains | 7:00 PM
Embark on a journey of relaxation and creative expression through the combination of Reiki sound therapy and art creation with master Reiki teacher, Jenn Dock. Cost is $60 per guest.
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