SHE’S REWRITING THE RULES OF PAGEANTRY—AND PROVING THAT TRUE STYLE STARTS WITH SELF-AWARENESS, CONFIDENCE AND PURPOSE
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September Looks Good on You
If September had a dress code, it would definitely be part flip-flop, part bootie. It’s the great seasonal crossover—when beach towels share shelf space with lunchboxes, and moms like me try to pack school snacks with at least one ounce of nutritional value.
In our house, the start of school signals the end of summer’s beautiful chaos. With four daughters, backto-school prep feels less like a checklist and more like a cross between a triathlon and a fashion week preview. I say that lovingly, of course—but also with deep respect for anyone who remembers to sign all the permission slips on time.
It’s fitting that September is our Style Issue—because style isn’t just about what you wear. It’s how you show up. It’s confidence, creativity and all the little choices that make life feel more like you.
This month, we’re spotlighting those who bring serious style to our community. Turn to page 40 for our cover story on Ivy Harrington—Miss New Jersey USA 2025—whose grace, grit and late-blooming pageant journey are redefining what beauty and strength really mean.
Also inside: Bellezza Si Esthetics (page 32), where skincare is elevated to an art form by master aesthetician Caterina Castaldo and her niece Caterina De Mattia. For a dose of media glam, turn to page 16 for “From Intern to Industry Insider,” and meet Chester resident Charlotte Triggs—PEOPLE magazine’s new general manager and editor-in-chief.
Looking for local flair? On page 20, meet the three inspiring moms behind Après in Bernardsville, a kid-friendly boutique that proves style and community can go hand in hand. And for the parents out there, don’t miss “The Back-to-School Gift Guide” (page 26), featuring classroom-ready picks from The Rebecca Collection.
Don’t forget to sip in style with this month’s signature cocktail on page 28: Garden State Glam—refined, layered and unmistakably New Jersey in its elegance and edge.
And of course, it wouldn’t be September without our Readers’ Choice Awards. You voted, and the winners are in! Turn to page 12 for this month’s top picks in five stylish categories, and follow us on Instagram (@bridgewater_somerset_hills) as we roll out new favorites each month.
Here’s to new seasons, fresh starts and staying stylish through it all.
Lisa Intrabartola, Ava Highland, The Rebecca Collection, Sadie Brown
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charlotte Triggs, Veronica Yankowski of Veroluce Photography, Jessielyn Palumbo, Carlos Velez, Anthony M. Gomes, Après, The Rebecca Collection, Media X Marketing, Liz Polo - My Havana Photography, Sabrina James
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
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inside the issue
1-7: An unforgettable evening at The Grain House! We were so grateful to celebrate with our partners and local business community—it was a night full of great energy, great company, and memorable moments. Host: Bridgewater Somerset Hills | Venue & Catering: Grain House Restaurant | Event Coordination: Emlabdon Events | Videography: Madrids Media | Photography: Julianne Reynolds Arts | 360 Booth: Divine Joy Entertainment | Craft Beverages: Burnt Mills Cider | Live Guitar: Tomas Rodriguez Guitar | Magician: William Fern | Bourbon Tasting: Five Springs Bourbon | Local Stories: Gordon Ward Photography by Julianne Reynolds Photography
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From Intern To Industry Insider
CHARLOTTE
TRIGGS'
20-YEAR CAREER WITH THE PUBLICATION STARTED WITH A COLLEGE INTERNSHIP
Rutgers alumna Charlotte Triggs has rubbed elbows with A-list celebrities and supermodels, covered plastic surgery from every angle, and once interviewed designer Karl Lagerfeld in German.
After more than a 20-year career with PEOPLE , the 2005 Rutgers College graduate continues to put her dual undergraduate degrees in English and German and minors in Spanish and political science to good use for the national entertainment media outlet.
In January, she became the first person to be named both general manager and editor-in-chief of the publication, overseeing all of the brand’s content across its platforms.
“It’s incredible to have seen PEOPLE ’s long history and now play a role in its exciting evolution,” said Triggs, 42, of Chester. “We’re thrilled to pioneer a new era of content consumption and engagement, giving our audience a powerful voice in shaping the brand’s next iteration.”
Though she’s now at the helm of one of the country’s most recognizable media brands, Triggs finds balance in Chester, where she enjoys the contrast between the high-paced world of entertainment and the peaceful charm of her hometown. “Living in Chester gives me that reset I need,” she said. “There’s something grounding about being able to step away from the celebrity whirlwind and come home to a community that feels real and rooted.”
The New Jersey native launched her career with PEOPLE the summer before her senior year. She was placed in an internship at the magazine after applying to the American Society of Magazine Editors.
ARTICLE BY LISA INTRABARTOLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLOTTE TRIGGS
Charlotte Triggs with Demi Moore at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards after-party.
Charlotte Triggs
“One of the magazines on the roster was Field & Stream , and I thought, ‘Oh God, please don’t put me in Field & Stream ,’” she said with a laugh. “Somehow I ended up at PEOPLE .”
Triggs worked as a fact checker in the former Time & Life building in midtown Manhattan, attended lavish parties at the 79th Street Boat Basin and hustled to make inroads with editors. She’d never taken a journalism class, but after reporting her first piece for PEOPLE—a where-are-they-now package on ’90s celebs—she was hooked.
“I gave it my all. They ran it in print, and I felt like, ‘Wow, look at this! It’s so much fun,’” she said.
Triggs, who was a commuter student, parlayed that internship into a second paid one during her senior year, stacking all her classes into a couple of days a week and working the rest at PEOPLE . After graduating, she started full-time at the magazine, first covering style and supermodels, then the plastic surgery beat—a role she never imagined for herself, but one she found fascinating.
“You’d be amazed how many plastic surgery stories you could write,” she said, noting her biggest get during that period was an interview with Michael Jackson’s plastic surgeon the week after the pop star’s death. “It seems like it would be a ridiculous beat, but there were some really interesting stories.”
That ability to “go with the flow” and recognize opportunities as they arise stems in part from her time at Rutgers, she said.
“It was so humungous, I felt like I could do anything I wanted,” she said of her time in college. “There were so many offerings and classes—it taught me to be opportunistic.”
Triggs hopscotched around the magazine, jumping to the entertainment teams, then leading the busy TV team. In 2014, the brand combined TV’s digital and editorial departments under her direction. Triggs saw room for professional growth several years later when the head of PEOPLE Digital moved on.
“I was a little sassy and said something like, ‘I already run 40 percent of the site, why don’t I just run the rest of it?’”
Her advice to new graduates pursuing careers in the often cutthroat media industry: If you’ve proven your worth, there is no shame in being direct about what you want at work.
“Not everyone wants to be a leader,” she said. “So if you have someone willing to take on the risk and responsibility and corral it and align it to the business strategy, most people are very happy to have a clear direction and clear vision they can follow.”
And taking over the digital-only side of a newsroom pre-pandemic still came with plenty of risks.
“The magazine paid all the bills back then. That’s where the most powerful editors were,” said Triggs. “Digital was the wild west.”
But the move paid off, teeing her up to become the executive editorial director in 2022 and, this year, the first at PEOPLE to hold the dual role in charge of all the brand’s content. After multiple positions straddling print and digital, Triggs said she is up for the challenge of delivering the right content to the right readers on the right platform.
“Subscribers are different from newsstand buyers. People who read off Facebook are different from people who consume PEOPLE on TikTok and from those clicking on the home page,” she said. “My approach is the more the merrier. You’ve got to serve everybody.”
Just as her broad academic interests have served her well during her two decades at PEOPLE , Triggs said the brand has successfully captivated national audiences for more than half a century with its unique blend of celebrity and lifestyle coverage.
“The thing that is special about PEOPLE is that we’re mixing up all kinds of stuff and somehow capturing the zeitgeist of what America is all about,” she said. “The brand is such a fun representation of people’s curiosities and culture.”
And for Triggs, returning to Chester at the end of the day—whether it’s after award shows or editorial planning meetings—brings a welcome sense of calm. “It’s home,” she said. “It keeps me grounded and gives me space to dream big.”
“It’s incredible to have seen PEOPLE’s long history and now play a role in its exciting evolution.”
- Charlotte Triggs
Charlotte Triggs at her 2005 Rutgers College commencement.
après
Just over a year ago, a trio of moms and best friends opened the doors of Après, a children’s clothing store located in the heart of Bernardsville. The shop carries clothing ranging from sizes 2T to 16, along with accessories, books, and unique gifts. From everyday wear to dressier pieces, Après offers a curated selection — and during back-to-school season, a popular line of STATE backpacks.
POPPING UP IN BERNARDSVILLE
Lindsay Johnson, Whitney Hagan, and Victoria DiGiorgio live in and around Bernardsville, and were inspired to start Après when they realized there was nowhere local to shop for quality children’s clothing.
“Our goal was really to offer something local with unique finds — clothing, books, accessories, and gifts that feel special,” DiGiorgio says.
In February 2024, they started brainstorming the concept, beginning with an online shop and pop-ups. By July, they secured their storefront and opened officially on August 1 after some renovations.
To keep kids entertained while their parents shop, they added a creative space in the back of the store. Kids can draw on a chalkboard wall or play with crafts and toys. The area also doubles as an event space — from kids’ art classes to wellness chats and author visits.
FROM FRIENDS TO FOUNDERS
The three women met when their now-8-year-olds started nursery school. Their friendship quickly grew from casual playdates to daily mom walks and eventually, business plans.
“It’s fun to work with friends,” Hagan says. “We’re friends first and business partners second. We collaborate really well and bring creative ideas to the table.”
They each come from different professional backgrounds: DiGiorgio runs operations for a women’s clothing company and previously owned the store that occupied their current location. Hagan is a speech pathologist,
and Johnson is a former lawyer. While new to retail, Hagan and Johnson quickly adapted, bringing complementary skills to the business.
“We all bring something different to the table,” Johnson says. “Our backgrounds may not be in fashion, but they add valuable perspectives to every decision.”
FINDING THEIR “AFTER”
With their youngest kids heading off to school, all three women found themselves asking: What’s next?
“Personally, we were all at a bit of a crossroads,” Johnson notes. “Opening the store brought creativity back into our lives and gave us something meaningful to focus on.”
That idea inspired the name Après, French for “after” — representing life after the baby years, and even after their first careers.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
One of the greatest rewards of the past year has been connecting with the local community — both through the store and their outreach.
“We love building relationships with customers,” Hagan says. “It’s been amazing.”
The team supports local causes through sponsorships and donations. In May, they participated in Mansion in May, where a portion of proceeds went to charity.
“There’s always a request — sponsoring a team, taking out an ad,” DiGiorgio notes. “You start to see how much small businesses contribute to the community and how important it is to shop local.”
The store has also become a place for moms to connect — a sort of social hub.
“I didn’t expect it to be so social, but moms come in, see someone they know, and end up chatting for 30 minutes,” Hagan says.
LOOKING AHEAD
Reflecting on their first year, the women agree it’s been a learning experience.
“Retail is tricky,” DiGiorgio explains. “There’s so much behind the scenes — buying, inventory, planning.”
Still, despite the challenges, they’re proud of what they’ve built.
“It’s been a whirlwind — a rollercoaster,” Johnson says. “There’s been ups and downs, but our motto has been to try everything.”
Heading into their second year, the trio is excited to keep growing and building their presence in the Bernardsville community.
“We’ve done every season once,” Hagan shares. “Now we know what to expect, and I’m excited to do it all again — even better this time.”
For more information visit apresnj.com .
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“Meet Me In New Jersey” Puts Local Stories on the Big Screen
A new independent film series is reshaping how stories are told in New Jersey—turning local neighborhoods into backdrops, small businesses into scene-stealers, and everyday residents into leading characters.
Cinematic series brings towns and residents into the spotlight
Meet Me In New Jersey, a locally rooted cinematic project from filmmaker and media entrepreneur Tanya Lashley, premiered to a sold-out crowd earlier this year and is already making waves across the state. With its mix of scripted drama, documentary-style authenticity and hometown pride, the series is offering something rarely seen in local media: a polished, artistic take on life in the Garden State.
OF VEROLUCE PHOTOGRAPHY
“This isn’t a commercial. This isn’t a reality show. This is a movement,” says Lashley, the series' founder and executive producer. “We’re telling authentic, cinematic stories while staying deeply connected to the communities they come from.”
Each episode is filmed on location in New Jersey towns, featuring real residents alongside local businesses. Rather than focusing on advertising, the show weaves these elements into its fictional storylines, creating a blend of narrative and reality that reflects the character of the communities it portrays.
At the series premiere, held at Ashton Farms in Hunterdon County, the energy was palpable. Attendees included cast members, town officials, local business owners and supporters of the arts—all drawn by the show’s unique approach to community storytelling.
The project’s visual style and production quality set it apart from other regional media. Episodes are shot with a cinematic eye, combining narrative arcs with unscripted moments that showcase the personality of each town. From downtown main streets to family-owned restaurants, every location is chosen to highlight New Jersey’s diversity, history and sense of place.
“The stories we tell are grounded in reality,” Lashley shares. “We’re showing how communities come together, how businesses adapt, and how people support each other. And we’re doing it with heart and cinematic flair.”
The series has also brought together a wide range of local talent—including some familiar faces. Our own publisher, Tiffany Slowinski, appears as a character in the show, blending her real-life passion for community storytelling with the fictional world Lashley has created. It’s just one more way the project blurs the lines between art and reality, while spotlighting the people who make New Jersey special.
The team behind Meet Me In New Jersey is already seeing interest from towns across the state, as well as conversations about expanding the format to other regions. Still, the heart of the project remains its local focus—giving New Jersey residents a chance to see themselves and their neighbors reflected on screen.
The show also offers a platform for community collaboration. Residents are encouraged to get involved both on screen and behind the scenes, from acting roles to helping with set design, production assistance and community outreach.
“People aren’t just watching this—they’re participating in it,” explains Lashley. “That’s what makes it different. We’re building something that people feel a part of.”
As the series continues to gain traction, it has sparked conversation about how media can better represent small towns, independent businesses and local culture in a meaningful way. By elevating the everyday stories that shape New Jersey communities, Meet Me In New Jersey is positioning itself not just as entertainment, but as a new kind of local journalism—one told through a filmmaker’s lens.
More than anything, Lashley sees the project as a celebration of the state she calls home. “There’s so much depth and beauty here. This series is a way to capture that—one town, one story at a time.”
For media inquiries, interviews, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact: Tanya Lashley - Executive Producer, Meet Me In New Jersey
Phone: 973-313-4415
Email: Tanya@meetmeinnewjersey.com
To watch the show or for more information visit: Meetmeinnewjersey.com
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BACK gift guide TO SCHOOL 5
Start the school year in style with The Rebecca Collection’s favorite classroom-ready finds
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE REBECCA COLLECTION
1. CORKCICLE KIDS WATER BOTTLES
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2. HAPPY PATCHED LUNCH BOX
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A signature cocktail for our September Style Issue
Refined, layered, and unmistakably New Jersey in its elegance and edge.
CONCEPT
Inspired by the rich tapestry of New Jersey’s landscapes — from the coastal charm of the Jersey Shore to the sophistication of Bergen and the historic charm of Hunterdon County — this cocktail captures the essence of early fall in the Garden State. It’s a drink that marries tradition with modern flair, offering a taste of New Jersey’s diverse and stylish spirit.
INGREDIENTS
1.5 oz Bourbon (warm base, rich and grounded — like Jersey heritage)
0.75 oz Fig syrup (earthy and luxe — a nod to fall and local harvest)
0.5 oz Amontillado sherry (dry elegance — layered like a perfect trench coat)
0.5 oz Lemon juice (zippy, modern contrast)
2 dashes black walnut bitters (depth and a hint of the unexpected)
3. Garnish with a brûléed fig half and rosemary — torch lightly for aroma and visual flair.
For more signature cocktails and recipes, follow us on Instagram: @newjerseycitylifestyle.
“STRUCTURED LIKE A BLAZER, SMOOTH LIKE SILK — THE GARDEN STATE GLAM IS YOUR SEPTEMBER IN A GLASS. IT’S FASHION
SEASON, AND NEW JERSEY’S GOT STYLE TO POUR.”
where expertise meets intention
Bellezza Si Esthetics has quietly built a reputation as one of New Jersey's most trusted skincare destinations. Rooted in decades of experience and an unwavering commitment to individualized care, the studio offers clients more than facials—it offers a philosophy.
At the heart of Bellezza Si is founder Caterina Castaldo, a master aesthetician with more than 36 years of hands-on experience. Born in Italy and raised on the principles of true wellness and beauty, Castaldo brings an old-world ethos to a modern landscape—one that values quality over quantity, consistency over chaos, and connection over trends.
“This is true skincare,” Castaldo notes. “Not what’s trending online, not what your friend got at a med spa last weekend. This is about understanding your skin, nurturing it over time, and tailoring every step along the way.”
From the moment clients step into Bellezza Si, the experience is bespoke. No walk-in menu, no copy-paste protocols. Each client begins with an in-depth consultation before any treatment is offered. And every treatment—from oxygen infusion facials to power peels, EMFACE sculpting, or targeted acne protocols—is custom-built based on the unique condition of the client’s skin that day.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEDIA X MARKETING
“You wouldn’t wear the same thing every season. Your skin shouldn’t be treated that way either,” Castaldo explains. “We cocktail each service to what your skin needs now—and only when it’s ready.”
That deeply thoughtful, holistic approach is what has kept Bellezza Si’s client base not only loyal, but generational. “Clients will say, ‘My husband noticed my skin,’ or ‘My daughter is coming in next week.’ That trust is sacred to me,” she says.
Joining her aunt in this mission is Caterina De Mattia, her namesake niece and rising skincare specialist. De Mattia, who returned to school to earn her aesthetics license under her aunt’s mentorship, brings youthful energy, curiosity and a shared passion for elevating beauty from the inside out.
Inside Bellezza Si Esthetics' Art of Skincare
Caterina Castaldo
“Growing up, I was always the one my friends turned to for beauty advice,” De Mattia says. “Getting to train and work alongside my aunt has been an unbelievable privilege. She’s taught me that real skincare is an art, and a responsibility.”
Together, the two maintain an intimate environment—by design. Bellezza Si only sees a handful of clients a day, each receiving dedicated time, space and personalized care. There’s no rotating door of technicians, no sterile med spa feel. Instead, the studio functions more like a private atelier: appointments are curated, relationships are nurtured, and treatments evolve over time.
“We’re concierge in the truest sense,” Castaldo says. “We know our clients—where they are in their skincare journey, what their next event is, what their skin responded well to last month. That’s the level of attention they deserve.”
This high-touch experience extends beyond the treatment room. Castaldo is passionate about education—teaching her clients not just what to do, but why they’re doing it. From the difference between day and night creams to helping a minimalist client choose just two powerhouse products, her advice is always grounded in real science, not sales.
The spa also uses meticulously sourced, luxury-grade products—including some Castaldo formulated herself in Milan. “My clients deserve the best, so that’s what I give them,” she shares. “But the product is only as good as the skin that receives it. That’s why we focus first on resurfacing and strengthening the skin barrier—so that everything else can work to its fullest potential.”
Caterina Castaldo and Caterina De Mattia
Bellezza Si Products
Castaldo, who travels frequently to Europe and attends elite trade shows such as Cosmoprof Bologna, is constantly evolving her practice, integrating trusted technologies like radiofrequency and microneedling — but only when a client’s skin is properly prepared to benefit from them.
“There is no shortcut to true results,” she says. “You have to do the work—thoughtfully, respectfully, and without rushing.”
In a culture obsessed with instant gratification, Bellezza Si Esthetics is a masterclass in what it means to slow down, tune in, and invest in yourself—intelligently. Here, skin isn’t an accessory. It’s a canvas for confidence, a reflection of health, and a lifelong relationship worth honoring.
And for the clients who make Bellezza Si part of their lifestyle, the results speak for themselves—quietly, confidently, and beautifully.
Bellezza Si Esthetics
Website: bellezzasi.com
Address: 10 Headley Rd, Morristown
Phone: (973) 540-0764
Caterina Castaldo
Licensed Real Estate Advisor
Office: (609) 649-3106
Direct: (908) 256-5962
melissa arcudi@vylla com NJ
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COLLECTIVE giving. real local IMPACT.
What happens when hundreds of women come together with a shared mission to give back? At Impact100 Garden State, the answer is clear: meaningful change—driven by compassion, collaboration, and collective purpose.
Part philanthropic force, part leadership incubator, this dynamic nonprofit is redefining what it means to give back. By bringing women together to pool their financial resources and award significant community grants, Impact100 Garden State transforms individual generosity into large-scale impact. The result: a ripple effect that touches lives across northern New Jersey — one vote, one voice, and one powerful movement at a time.
Founded on the belief that philanthropy should be accessible and participatory, the organization empowers each member with an equal voice in where the funding goes. Every woman who contributes $1,000 annually becomes part of a larger decision-making body that selects local nonprofit recipients through a democratic voting process.
“It’s an incredible model of collective giving,” says Celeste Campos, who became president of the organization in July 2024. “Every woman has a voice. It’s not just about writing a check—it’s about being part of the decision-making process and seeing the direct result of your involvement in the community.”
Impact100 Garden State
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLOMY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY
Campos joined Impact100 Garden State in 2023 and was immediately struck by the energy and purpose of the women involved. “It’s rare to find a group that is so mission-driven, yet so inclusive,” she shares. “I knew right away I wanted to be more involved.”
Today, Campos is focused on broadening the organization’s reach and fostering a more diverse and inclusive membership. One of her main goals is to recruit younger women and nonprofit professionals who bring fresh perspectives and lived experiences to the table. To remove barriers to entry, the group has established a fellowship program for women who may find the $1,000 membership fee prohibitive.
“The fellowship has allowed us to open the door to women who are deeply passionate about service but might not otherwise be able to join,” Campos explains. “It’s one more way we’re staying true to our mission of empowerment.”
Founded in 2013, the Garden State chapter was the first of its kind in New Jersey and serves a five-county area: Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, and Union. Since its founding, the chapter has awarded $4 million in grants, supporting organizations that address critical community needs ranging from education and public health to food insecurity and youth services.
Two signature events serve as the cornerstone of the organization’s calendar. The highly anticipated “Big Give” took place on June 11. In the previous two weeks, seven nonprofit finalists had presented their grant proposals via video and narrative to the full membership Based on member votes, four of those finalists received $100,000 each, and the remaining three were awarded $10,000 grants.
This month, the group will host its annual membership kickoff event on Sept. 25 at the Fairleigh Dickinson University mansion. The evening will include a keynote discussion led by speakers from Magee-Womens Research Institute on women’s health, along with plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and grow with fellow members.
Beyond grant-making, Campos is also passionate about the sustainability of the organization itself. Succession planning and leadership development are top priorities as Impact100 Garden State continues to grow and evolve.
“We want to ensure that this organization continues to thrive well into the future,” she notes. “Empowering women and building community is what it’s all about.”
For more information visit impact100gardenstate. org or contact info@impact100gardenstate.org.
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IVY HARRINGTON
Miss New Jersey USA 2025 shows it’s never too late to shine.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSIELYN PALUMBO, CARLOS VELEZ, ANTHONY M. GOMES
When Ivy Harrington was crowned Miss New Jersey USA 2025, she didn’t just claim a title—she affirmed a journey. At 30 years old, Harrington made history as the oldest titleholder the state has ever crowned, and with it, she’s redefining the narrative around beauty, purpose, and perseverance.
But for Harrington, the victory is just one moment in a much longer story—one that spans basketball courts, personal loss, self-discovery, and ultimately, public service.
Born and raised in Neptune, New Jersey, Harrington spent her college years at Morgan State University in Baltimore, where she played Division I basketball on a full athletic scholarship while majoring in broadcast journalism. It was there, in the quiet of her dorm room, that she stumbled across the Miss USA competition on TV—and something clicked.
“I remember watching in 2016 and again in 2017 when two African-American women from D.C. won back-to-back,” she says. “It wasn’t even the idea of winning that drew me in—it was seeing someone who looked like me succeed in that space. It planted a seed.”
Ivy Harrington and Gina Mellish
That spark of curiosity grew into research. She found that many women in media—Oprah, Diane Sawyer, Olivia Culpo—had pageantry in their backgrounds. So, she took a leap. By early 2018, she had connected with her pageant coach, Ciera Nicole of Crown Bound Pageant Consulting and began to train, balancing the intensity of the stage with the discipline she developed in sports. Her first competition came in November 2019, just two months after the loss of her father. “It was chaotic. I was grieving. But pageantry gave me something constructive to focus on,” she shares.
That year, she didn’t win—but she didn’t stop. In 2022, she returned and placed in the top five. Then again in 2024. When the Miss Universe Organization lifted its age restrictions, allowing older contestants to compete, Harrington knew she had one last shot.
“I thought, ‘Do I need a grown-up hobby? Am I really still twirling at 30?’” she jokes. “But I couldn’t ignore that competitive fire in me. The only way I wasn’t going to win was if I didn’t show up.”
In 2025, she showed up—and won.
“Taking off that uniform can feel like losing part of who you are, I want them to understand their worth isn’t tied to a scoreboard. They’re allowed to pivot. They’re allowed to start over.” - Ivy Harrington
Alongside the crown, Harrington launched her mentorship program, MVP—Most Valuable Pivot. It’s built around one message: helping female student-athletes develop a personal identity beyond their sport. Through workshops, coaching, and school visits, she guides girls in seeing themselves as more than jersey numbers.
“Taking off that uniform can feel like losing part of who you are,” she notes. “I want them to understand their worth isn't tied to a scoreboard. They’re allowed to pivot. They’re allowed to start over.”
Pageantry, she says, shares a surprising amount with athletics: strategy, mental toughness, and physical endurance. It’s why she’s currently working on a campaign to bridge those two worlds—an idea to host an “MVP Pageant” with professional male athletes walking through the same competitions she does, from Q&As to stage presence.
“I want people to understand that this isn’t just about looking pretty,” she says. “It’s work. It’s grit. You’re literally putting yourself on a stage to be judged. That’s bravery.”
As she prepares for the national Miss USA competition later this year, Harrington feels focused—not frantic. “It’s funny. I’m not even nervous,” she explains. “I think that’s what happens when you finally know who you are.”
Her calm confidence has been supported by mentors, including Gina Mellish, Miss New Jersey USA 2020, who helped fine-tune everything from wardrobe to brand messaging. But Harrington’s most profound inspiration came from the late Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019.
“Cheslie was strong, athletic, intelligent—and real. She showed me the power of representation. But her tragic death also reminded me how important it is to protect your peace,” she shares. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
That sentiment grounds her reign. She’s clear that her goal isn’t fame—it’s service.
“I want people to feel seen when they meet me,” she notes. “To take what they need, to feel like they belong too. This is about empowering others to find their voice, to pivot into their own purpose.”
Ten years ago, in 2014, Harrington tweeted that she dreamed of being on a magazine cover. This fall, that dream comes true— backed not by luck, but by years of hard work, heartache, and resilience.
“There’s no expiration date on your goals,” she explains. “This journey has taught me that it’s never too late to try something new, to start over, or to chase what lights you up.”
She smiles and sums it up simply: “Pivot into your purpose.”
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MEMORIES
in Bloom
How Orma Florals Turns Life’s Milestones into Lasting Keepsakes
ARTICLE BY SADIE BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABRINA JAMES
Sabrina James
In a world that often rushes past life’s most meaningful moments, Sabrina James has found a way to pause, preserve and celebrate them — one petal at a time. Through her small business, Orma Florals, she transforms fresh floral arrangements into timeless keepsakes, helping people hold onto their most cherished memories with beauty and grace. Though her store is based online, James is a local creative whose work has resonated deeply within the community.
It all started in the spring of 2020, during the height of pandemic uncertainty and wedding planning chaos. For James, stress turned into spark when she discovered resin art — a creative outlet that quickly became a lifeline. “Honestly, I first started playing around with resin in April 2020,” she recalls. “It was such a fun, creative way to take my mind off the stress of planning our wedding.” What began as simple resin keychains soon evolved into coasters, then eventually into floral preservation — all sparked by encouraging feedback on a single Instagram post.
In the early days, she opened an Etsy shop under the name SAJ Made, a nod to her initials and the handmade nature of her creations. But it wasn’t until 2021, when one of her Instagram Reels went viral with over a million views, that the momentum shifted. “The orders started coming in and I was overwhelmed in the best way possible,” she says. What was once a hobby had become a full-fledged business.
Following her own wedding, James found herself drawn to the emotional weight flowers carry. “I preserved my own bouquet and realized how powerful it was to have that reminder,” she shares. From weddings to memorials, proms to baby showers, Orma Florals now offers custom preservation for every type of life event — creating pieces that capture not just the beauty of the flowers, but the meaning behind them.
In 2024, James rebranded her business to reflect that mission more deeply. The name Orma, derived from the Malayalam word for “memory,” perfectly encapsulates her vision. “It’s about helping people showcase a piece of their own special day. A memory that will live on forever,” she explains. That same year, she expanded her offerings to include fresh floral design for events — uniting the ephemeral joy of a bouquet with the enduring nature of preservation.
“Each piece becomes part of someone’s story and legacy. That inspires me to keep dreaming bigger.” - Sabrina James
Though her storefront is virtual, James lives and creates locally — and her work has become a favorite among area couples, families and event planners who want to preserve florals in a meaningful way. Her connection to the community and commitment to personal storytelling sets Orma Florals apart in an industry that can sometimes feel impersonal.
Despite her growing success, James’s path hasn’t been without challenges. “Honestly, I didn’t expect how much of being a creative entrepreneur is about everything but the creative part,” she admits. From bookkeeping to customer service, the behind-the-scenes hustle has tested her — but it’s also pushed her to grow. Still, it’s the heart of her work that keeps her going: “Each piece becomes part of someone’s story and legacy. That inspires me to keep dreaming bigger.”
Her entrepreneurial spirit traces back to childhood — from selling bindi packets in second grade to making jewelry supported by her grandmother’s first five-dollar investment. That same spark now fuels a business that brings comfort, joy and remembrance to hundreds of clients.
James’s advice for anyone sitting on a creative idea? “Take the leap of faith. If you wait until everything feels perfect, you’ll never start.” She believes in starting small, learning through trial and growing with intention — the same philosophy that has shaped Orma Florals from a single resin keychain into a brand rooted in beauty, memory and meaning.
As Orma Florals continues to blossom, Sabrina James proves that with a little faith and a lot of heart, something handmade can become something unforgettable — right here in our own backyard.
Orma Florals
Phone: (908) 248-4824
Website: ormaflorals.com
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Arman Roy Foundation 5K & Kids 1K
Pleasant Valley Park, Basking Ridge | 10:00 AM
Fun weekend run/walk with DJ, kids’ mile, Kona Ice, playground and family-friendly activities. Proceeds support after-school STEM programs.
SEPTEMBER 13TH
Peter Chesson Memorial Car Show
Moorland Farm, Far Hills | 9:00 AM
Peter Chesson Memorial Car Show. Register on Eventbrite. All vehicle types welcome. $20 includes vehicle entry, passenger admission and, while supplies last, a canvas tote bag featuring car show artwork and sponsor goodies.
SEPTEMBER 13TH
New Jersey Festival Orchestra: The Gypsy Spirit
Sieminski Theater, Basking Ridge | 7:30 PM
Experience vibrant orchestral concert at Fellowship Village’s premier theater. Tickets & info: sieminskitheater.org
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Art in the Park
168 Main St, Peapack | 11:00 AM
25 incredible years of Peapack & Gladstone's Art in the Park! Mark your calendars for this September at Liberty Park!
SEPTEMBER 17TH
“Do It For Diva” Fashion Show
900 Lamington Rd, Bedminster | 6:30 PM
Annual charitable runway event featuring local designers and entertainment. Tickets start at $150. For more information visit divaforaday.org
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Jersey Gravel Grinder Deux Mountain-Bike Race
River Road Park, Bedminster | 9:00 AM
Experience a challenging gravel bike ride on scenic trails. Registration is required. More info: trailforks.com.
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The West Oak Team
Left to right - Karen Gray - 908 507 3563; Neha Jain - 908 992 2203; Karen Richman - 908 419 8805; Marie Young - 908 938 2525; Terry Woltman - 908 812 2010; Hope Salamone - 908 693 4711
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Real talk!
On June 30 , Governor Murphy signed into law, a major shift in the “Mansion Tax” Bill S4666/A5804, renamed the Graduated Percent Fee, to be paid by sellers in addition to the Transfer Tax currently paid by sellers. The following summarizes the new rules as of press time, 7/29 The fees are not pro-rated and start in excess of $1MM
th Sales in excess of $1MM, the tax threshold, sellers will be charged a 1% fee of the total sale price
Sales in excess of $2MM will be charged a 2% fee of the total sale price
Sales in excess of $2 5MM will be charged a fee of 2 5% of the total sale price
Sales in excess of $3MM will be charged a fee of 3% of the total sale price.
License Nos. left to right : 1649294, 2188662, 2295940, 0565487, 012573 0, 1 120271
Sales in excess of $3.5MM will be charged a fee of 3.5% of the total sale price. This is the highest rate. For homes under contract prior to July 10th, where the deed is recorded before November 15, 2025, seller fees paid in excess of the 1% paid by buyers in this situation only (see above), may be refunded It’s essential that you consult with your attorney as all steps must be followed for a refund. There are specific forms required to complete, as well as timely deadlines and fine print. Only an attorney can advise you on the nuances, especially in this limited circumstance, and changes may occur without notice
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