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A Season to Celebrate HimHappy Fathers Day!
Dear West Orange Readers,
June is the month we celebrate the men who fix the squeaky doors, conquer the lawn like it’s a competitive sport, and occasionally fall asleep mid-movie—remote still in hand. It’s our annual Men’s Issue, and it lands perfectly in step with Father’s Day.
Now, I’m not a dad myself—but I was lucky enough to be raised by one who embodies all the good stuff we celebrate this month. My dad had only daughters—just me and my sister—but you’d never know it by the way he leaned into girl-dad life. He was equally game for soccer practice carpools and spontaneous shoe shopping, with the patience of a saint and a talent for turning even the simplest Saturday into an adventure. This issue is for him, and for all the dads, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures out there who show up with big hearts and maybe a few dad jokes tucked in their back pocket.
Inside this issue, we’re highlighting stories that reflect that same spirit.
On page 18, Building Dreams introduces us to Magnolia Home Remodeling, building a legacy of family, grit, and craftsmanship.
If you’re a football fan, turn to page 22 for My Super Bowl Experience, where I had a whirlwind journey to the big game that feels like something out of a movie.
Cocktail lovers, head to page 16 for Whiskey Sour with a Twist. This classic drink gets a modern refresh that’s perfect for summer sipping—and impressing your friends at the next backyard BBQ.
Speaking of BBQs, we’ve got your grill-side upgrade covered. Flip to page 17 for Homemade BBQ Sauce, a recipe that’s tangy, smoky, and guaranteed to up your burger game.
Finally, on page 13, Ryan McCormick: PGA Tour Return follows the determined path of a local pro golfer chasing his comeback story—proof that resilience, like golf, is all about the follow-through.
Wishing all the dads and role models a Father’s Day filled with good food, strong coffee, and maybe a well-earned nap. Cheers!
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bernie Augustine, Chloe Anderson, Patti Zielinski
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
LaVated Media, John Colaneri, The PGA Tour, Ryan McCormick, New Jersey Golf, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group, Tom Solymosi, Media X Marketing
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
1: Frances Palm, MPA, president and CEO of Zufall Health, has been named this year’s Exemplary Leader. 2: Local Officials at Hackensack Meridian Health Urgent Care PLUS showcasing the CAT scan machine and on site lab. 3: Dogwood Green NJ celebrated their Grand Opening at 5 Central Avenue, this April. 4: Dogtopia West Orange set records, delivering exceptional care and fun for pups from day one! 5: Local Officials celebrated the opening of Hackensack Meridian Health Urgent Care PLUS. 6: In recognition of Women’s History Month, the NJEDA held a roundtable discussion with entrepreneurs and business leaders. 7: Yappy hour is back in full swing at McLoone’s Boathouse!
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Jan Chwiedosiuk
BREWING Memories, ONE SIP at a Time
Since 2019, Jersey Cyclone Brewing has been crafting memories in each glass of beer brewed locally in Somerset.
The dream of Jersey Cyclone Brewing dates back to the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, where Owners and friends, Jan Chwiedosiuk and Brian Teel began homebrewing as a way to share passion and creativity with their family and friends.
In operation since May 2019, after challenging times during the pandemic, today Chwiedosiuk is most proud of their customer base. “These are people who have held the business together and helped us persevere through COVID times,” Chwiedosiuk says. “They stood in line and picked up cans, bottles, growlers — whatever we were selling.”
“It takes a team to raise a brewery” Chwiedosiuk says with pride as he talks about his team at Jersey Cyclone Brewing. He goes on to say, “they are the face of the company and embody the same passion of serving the community with great beer”
Jersey Cyclone Brewing: Where Beer Meets Local Connection
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM SOLYMOSI
In turn, Jersey Cyclone Brewing supports the community, whether it is a space where memories are made, a site to fundraise for causes or a place for inspiration, education and fun. “People say, ‘You’re not a community until you have a brewery in it,’” Chwiedosiuk notes. “The goal of a brewery is to be integrated in the community.” The brewery engages local businesses to give them exposure through events, which have ranged from mozzarella-making to charcuterie boards to Lego nights. Plus, at Jersey Cyclone, you can catch some of the area’s best local musicians.
Over the years, Jersey Cyclone Brewing has prided itself in collaborating with local businesses, not only through supplying them fresh locally crafted beer but also through beer collaborations and even brewing an annual Festbier for Deutscher Club of Clark, which is one of New Jersey’s largest German Clubs. “We are proud to be part of their Oktoberfest celebration,” Chwiedosiuk says. The annual celebration draws tens of thousands of people to the Deutscher Club grounds in Clark.
As a private event space, the brewery has served as the site for celebrating milestones. Chwiedosiuk recalls one woman who threw a birthday party at the brewery for her boyfriend. They then held their engagement party and later their wedding after-party there.
“When customers walk in, they will see a well-maintained, cozy space. Our intent is for them to experience the beer we have on draft and be exposed to something new,” Chwiedosiuk says. To this end, the brewery continues to release new beers every week to keep their sixteen (16) taplines full and the beers forever rotating. These weekly releases have become a staple with Jersey Cyclone Brewing’s customer base. Their website sets the stage for the story the beers tell. Take, for example, the description of Boardwalk Dreams IPA: “You stroll the boardwalk on a hot summer day as you walk by your favorite shops. You walk in and out of the stores leisurely as the sound of music and chatter fills the air. All of a sudden, a delicious smell fills the air...” or Eye of the Storm Citra American IPA: “When you enter the eye of a storm, you enter a calm and balanced place amidst a circle of darkness and destruction.”
“We’re proud of being able to allow our customers to experience this, to take that journey with us. At the end of the day, we write the story through the quality products and memories we make.”
the craft beers on tap and check out Jersey Cyclone’s June events to treat the man in your life to a special day at jerseycyclone.com.
RYAN MCCORMICK: Grinding Toward His PGA Tour Return
How a Golf “Nerd” from Monmouth County is Grinding to Reach the Next Level
ARTICLE BY BERNIE AUGUSTINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE PGA TOUR, RYAN MCCORMICK, NEW JERSEY GOLF
Ryan McCormick
In some ways, Ryan McCormick is far from his days playing the courses of Monmouth County. In other ways, it's still very much the same—grinding and fine-tuning his game to reach the next level.
"There's a reason why golf attracts so many different types of people," McCormick says of the sport's perpetual challenge. "It attracts the most accomplished athletes and business leaders, all the way down to people who are just obsessed with the game. It's what's great about the game; it's not discriminatory."
McCormick places himself in that "obsessed" category. "I've been a golf nerd and golf nut my whole life," said McCormick, a pro on the Korn Ferry Tour. He played 27 events on the PGA Tour in 2024 and is working to get back there.
"When the Korn Ferry Tour comes to town, we may not be the biggest event in town," McCormick shares with a knowing tone about life on golf's minor league, which takes him from Buenos Aires to Boise and beyond.
Born in West Long Branch, McCormick grew up in Middletown and began focusing on golf at Mater Dei High School before moving on to a decorated collegiate career at St. John's. He turned pro and earned his PGA Tour card in 2023 after finishing in the top 30 on the Korn Ferry Tour. McCormick didn’t stick on the PGA Tour and is back playing Korn Ferry events this year with eyes on a return.
"Incredible," was McCormick's one-word summation of the difficulty of the PGA Tour.
Though he didn’t remain on the PGA Tour, the experience was invaluable. McCormick played in events he dreamed of while watching on TV with his dad, including the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in San Diego. "That was really awesome," McCormick notes. "It was just an unbelievable place."
Whether you're trying to break 100, make your high school team, or set a course record—McCormick has tips for anyone grinding it out on their local muni course. He even set a course record at Charleston Springs in Millstone with a 59. "It was a great experience. That one's my favorite," McCormick says of the achievement.
McCormick shared a few tips for golfers of all levels:
Max Greyserman, Ryan McCormick and Chris Gotterup PGA Championship
“It attracts the most accomplished athletes and business leaders, all the way down to people who are just obsessed with the game . It’s what’s great about the game; it’s not discriminatory.”
—Ryan McCormick
LEANING INTO ATHLETICISM
"If you have an athletic background, use that. Try to feel like when you have a golf club in your hand, you feel the way you do when playing other sports. It's very closely related. If you've played other sports, try to make it as much like that as possible."
HOOKS AND SLICES
"If you see your ball curving to the right, try to make it go the other way," McCormick explains, knowing it sounds easier than it is. "If it's going one way, try to overcorrect and make it go the other way. You want to try to find a middle ground there." Adjusting your stance in the tee box is one way to experiment with that.
INSIDE-OUT GAME
Most golfers want to crush it off the tee, but the reality is that most players can't consistently hit the fairway with a 250-yard drive. To compensate for an errant drive, McCormick recommends focusing on the short game.
"The easiest way for someone (who's trying to break 100) to lower their scores is to focus on putting and chipping," McCormick shares, adding that mastering the game from 150 yards and in is a good strategy. "Any time you can get out to the putting green, it's really going to help your scores."
Ryan McCormick - American professional golfer
Stats: pgatour.com/player/46113/ryan-mccormick
Instagram: @mccormick__ryan
Ryan McCormick
WHISKEY SOUR WITH A TWIST
Looking to celebrate Father’s Day with a special drink? This Whiskey Sour with a Twist is a perfect balance of smooth bourbon, zesty lemon, and just the right amount of sweetness—plus, a frothy touch for that extra flair. Whether you’re toasting with dad or enjoying a quiet moment, this cocktail is sure to add some extra joy to your celebration!
ingredients:
• 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (or more to taste)
• 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
• Ice
• Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
The Perfect Father’s Day Cocktail
directions:
Step 1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
Step 2. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds without ice (this is called a "dry shake" and helps create froth if you're using egg white).
Step 3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 10–15 seconds to chill.
Step 4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Step 5. Garnish with a lemon twist or a cherry for that extra touch of elegance. Enjoy! This cocktail has a nice balance of sweet, sour, and a little bite from the whiskey—perfect for Father’s Day celebrations!
ARTICLE BY CHLOE ANDERSON
USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.
A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.
SOMETHING SWEET
This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.
SOMETHING TANGY
Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.
SOMETHING SPICY
This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.
SOMETHING LIQUID
It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.
SOMETHING TOMATO
You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.
THE SPICE COMBINATION
This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.
HOMEMADE
BBQ SAUCE
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups ketchup
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5 tablespoons brown sugar
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
DIRECTIONS
In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.
Recipe and information courtesy of Pat Neely and Gina Neely.
BUILDING DREAMS
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group: A Family Affair Built on Craftsmanship and Care
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGNOLIA HOME
REMODELING GROUP
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group (MHRG) has established itself as a leading name in New Jersey’s home remodeling industry, thanks to its dedication to quality craftsmanship and a deep sense of family values. Founded in the mid-90s by Vic Fiore and his brother-in-law Chris Fontana, the company has grown organically, relying on a reputation built on hard work, exceptional customer service, and personal connections.
“People come to us with ideas, and we help them bring those ideas to life. We can work with their budget and make sure they get the most out of their investment.”
—Vic Fiore
In a recent interview, Fiore shares insights into the foundation and success of MHRG, touching on its origins, growth, and the special bond that fuels the business.
A FAMILY-ORIENTED BUSINESS
Fontana and Fiore's journey into home remodeling began shortly after they graduated from college. Fiore, a graduate of Rutgers University, and Fontana, who studied at York College of Pennsylvania, decided to team up in what turned out to be a perfect business partnership. Their shared background in construction—with Fontana's father working as a construction supervisor at Con Edison and Fiore's family involved in various trades like contracting and electrical work— set the stage for their venture into home remodeling.
“We've always been around construction,” Fiore says. “When Chris got engaged to my sister, it just made sense for us to team up and start something together. We’ve been working together ever since.”
BUILDING A REPUTATION THROUGH QUALITY WORK
What started as a small operation in the 90s has evolved into a well-known name in the community. Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is known for its diverse range of services, from interior and exterior remodeling to additions, dormers, kitchens, bathrooms, and more.
“We do pretty much everything—kitchens, bathrooms, basements, roofing, siding, and outdoor living spaces,” Fiore says. “But the key to our success has always been our satisfied customers. A lot of our business comes from referrals and repeat customers. They trust us, and that’s been the biggest driver of our growth.”
Over the years, Magnolia has carefully expanded its services and built a loyal client base. The company’s approach is simple: deliver high-quality work and maintain strong relationships with clients.
A HANDS-ON, FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS
Unlike many companies that claim to be family-owned, Magnolia’s hands-on approach is genuine. Fiore and Fontana are deeply involved in every aspect of the business, overseeing projects, meeting with clients, and ensuring that every detail meets their high standards.
“We’re very hands-on,” Fiore explains. “We run the business, we manage it, and we are on-site regularly. Our team members—even those who aren’t family—feel like family. Everyone’s invested in the success of the business and in making sure our customers are happy.”
This family-oriented atmosphere extends beyond Fiore and Fontana. Other family members, including nieces and wives, are actively involved in the business. “It’s great because we get to grow the business together. And the people who work here—they want to see the business succeed, too. We treat each other like family.”
TAILORED TO CLIENTS’ NEEDS
One of the company’s standout features is its commitment to understanding the unique vision and needs of each client. Fiore notes that MHRG prides itself on working closely with customers to create personalized remodeling plans that align with their goals and budgets.
“We listen to what our clients want,” Fiore says. “People come to us with ideas, and we help them bring those ideas to life. We can work with their budget and make sure they get the most out of their investment.”
SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS AND PLANNING
With summer approaching, Fiore highlights that some home remodeling projects are better suited for certain times of the year. For example, roofing and siding projects are typically best scheduled in late spring or early summer, as the warmer weather allows for optimal conditions.
“People often get in touch with us in the winter to plan for spring or summer projects,” Fiore says. “That way, when the weather turns, we’re ready to go. Kitchens, bathrooms, and basements are projects we can handle year-round, but for outdoor projects, starting early ensures you can enjoy them all summer long.”
THE MAGNOLIA DIFFERENCE
What sets Magnolia apart from its competitors is its unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail. Fiore emphasizes the company's dedication to using the best materials and working with skilled professionals to deliver exceptional results.
“We invest in better installers, better materials, and more project management,” Fiore explains. “Our goal is to provide our clients with the best possible experience, from
Top: Chris Fontana and Vic Fiore Bottom: The Magnolia Home Remodeling Group Team
“Our goal is to provide our clients with the best possible experience, from start to finish. And it’s all about building relationships — with our customers and with the people we work with.” —Vic Fiore
start to finish. And it’s all about building relationships— with our customers and with the people we work with.”
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
In addition to their work in residential remodeling, Magnolia has also given back to the community by participating in charitable projects. The company has partnered with George to the Rescue, a popular NBC show that helps families in need of home renovations. Magnolia’s involvement in such projects reflects their deep-rooted commitment to making a positive impact.
“We’ve worked on projects for Make-A-Wish and George to the Rescue, helping families who truly need it,” Fiore says. “It’s gratifying to use our skills to give back and make a difference in people’s lives.”
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
As for the future, Fiore and Fontana have no intention of growing too quickly or losing sight of what made their business successful in the first place. While Magnolia continues to expand its services across New Jersey, they
remain focused on maintaining the quality of their work and the relationships they’ve built over the years.
“We want to grow, but we want to do it carefully,” Fiore says. “We want to continue providing a high level of service and ensuring that we’re the right fit for our clients. We don’t want to spread ourselves too thin.”
A LASTING LEGACY
For Magnolia Home Remodeling Group, the future looks bright. As the company continues to grow, their focus on family, quality, and customer satisfaction will remain at the heart of everything they do.
From their humble beginnings to their present-day success, Fiore and Fontana's shared vision for Magnolia is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the importance of family in business. For anyone looking for reliable, top-notch home remodeling services in New Jersey, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is a name that stands out for all the right reasons.
For more information visit magnoliahomeremodeling.com
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEDIA X MARKETING
SUPER BOWL LIX IN NEW ORLEANS
I’ll admit, I’m not the biggest sports fan out there. But there’s one event a year I just can’t miss—and that’s the Super Bowl! It’s not about the game for me; it’s about the energy, the celebrities, the parties, and the chance to be part of one of the biggest events in the world. So when our publisher, Tiffany Slowinski, and I were invited to attend Super Bowl LV in New Orleans, we didn’t hesitate. We packed our bags and hopped on a plane to the Big Easy to experience the festivities firsthand.
A NEW ORLEANS ADVENTURE
Super Bowl LIX took place in the iconic Caesars Superdome, and New Orleans was absolutely electric that week. The city was buzzing with high-energy events, and the Super Bowl seemed to elevate everything. It was also Mardi Gras season, so the festive atmosphere was everywhere. Parades, music, and that signature NOLA charm made it the perfect backdrop for the biggest football event of the year.
INTERVIEWING LEGENDS
Even though I’m not a die-hard sports fan, getting to interview some of football’s most iconic figures was surreal.
We first chatted with Patrick Mahomes, and unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know he is the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was as down-to-earth as they come. When we asked about his plans for the offseason, he gave us a glimpse into
his life beyond football. “I’m looking forward to hanging out with my kids, spending quality time with my wife, and doing the normal day-to-day activities that I don’t always get to do during the season,” Mahomes said. It was refreshing to hear him talk about the simple pleasures of life after a high-stakes season.
WEB SEARCH RESULTS
Next, we sat down with Andy Reid, the legendary head coach of the Chiefs. Reid’s humility and genuine love for his players were evident. “It’s about the players, their dedication, and their passion,” Reid said. “My job is to guide them and help them realize their potential.” His leadership style is all about empowering his team.
Of course, we couldn’t leave out the Eagles—my personal favorite. We had the chance to speak with Nick Sirianni, the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, who was just as charismatic as Reid. But the most inspiring interview was with Jalen Hurts, the Eagles’ star quarterback. Hurts spoke with incredible poise, reflecting on his journey to the Super Bowl and how far the Eagles had come since last season. He emphasized the importance of staying grounded and trusting the process, no matter the outcome.
SUPER BOWL WEEK MADNESS
It wasn’t just the interviews that made the week unforgettable. We attended The Super Bowl LIX Media Party, filled with media personalities and networking opportunities. The energy was high and we caught up with familiar faces from the sports and entertainment worlds. We also helped ourselves to unlimited food and drinks. The next morning I may have regretted that last daiquiri refill.
Another major highlight was opening night, an event where players, coaches, and celebrities gather to kick off the festivities. We were there to capture it all, from
red carpet arrivals to the frenzy of media interviews. We were up close and personal and everyone was eager to talk, laugh, and pose for photos.
RADIO ROW AND THE MEDIA FRENZY
During the week, we also spent time at Radio Row, the media hub of Super Bowl Week. This is where athletes, celebrities, and influencers gather to give interviews and share insights. We connected with major media personalities and got a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into covering the world’s biggest sporting event. The energy was contagious, and we felt like we were right in the middle of the action.
SHOPPING AT THE NFL STORE & SNEAK PEEK AT THE NFL EXPERIENCE
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the NFL Store, a pop-up shop packed with exclusive Super Bowl gear. I can never resist a good shopping spree, so I grabbed a Super Bowl LIX sweatshirt (and, of course, some Eagles merch for my dad, who may be the biggest Eagles fan I know). Tiffany was on the hunt for the most blinged out shirt she could find, and the options did not disappoint—perfect keepsakes from the big week!
The real excitement came when we got a sneak peek at the NFL Experience before it opened to the public. This massive interactive fan attraction was filled with games, simulations, and tons of NFL memorabilia. I tried the quarterback challenge (let’s just say, I’m no Mahomes), while Tiffany decided to brush up on her sports trivia and had a blast exploring the NFL’s rich history.
The NFL Experience captured the true spirit of the game, celebrating everything from NFL history to fan engagement. Getting an early look at it was a special treat, and it’s a must-see for anyone heading to the Super Bowl in the future!
THE FINAL COUNTDOWN TO THE BIG GAME
As the week came to a close, we attended the final media day, and the anticipation for Super Bowl Sunday reached a fever pitch. Everyone was talking about predictions, strategies, and, of course, the party that would follow. We also celebrated the legendary Leigh Steinberg (the inspiration for the character of Jerry Maguire). It was clear that the Super Bowl wasn’t just about the game—it was a celebration of everything that makes sports culture so unique.
LOOKING AHEAD: SUPER BOWL LX AT LEVI’S STADIUM
As much as we loved Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, we’re already looking forward to next year’s Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, at Levi’s Stadium. If Super Bowl LIX was any indication, we’re in for another unforgettable experience. With the excitement of the game, the media frenzy, and the overall atmosphere, we can’t wait to see what the next Super Bowl has in store. Will we be back? Absolutely!
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the experience, the Super Bowl brings people together in a way few other events can. Tiffany and I may not be the biggest football buffs, but Super Bowl LIX was an adventure we’ll never forget. From interviews with football legends to media parties and everything in between, this trip was everything we could’ve hoped for and more.
Until next year, Super Bowl LX! We’ll be there, ready for more.
FROM BLUEPRINTS to TV Screens
JOHN COLANERI ON CRAFTING HOMES AND CREATING IMPACT
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAVATED MEDIA, JOHN COLANERI
From crafting renovations on TV to executing high-profile projects for clients nationwide, New Jersey local John Colaneri’s journey in the design and building industry has been nothing short of remarkable. With more than 20 years of experience, including a decade of high-energy work with HGTV, Colaneri has carved out a niche as both a designer and a television personality. As he continues to shape homes and businesses through his firm, Lilyshea LLC, Colaneri offers a fresh perspective on design, blending creativity with precision. For our Home issue, we sat down with Colaneri to explore his career, creative process, and approach to balancing work and family life.
A PASSION SPARKED IN HIGH SCHOOL
John Colaneri’s passion for design and architecture began long before his television career. “Early on at Ramapo High School in Franklin Lakes, I discovered my love for design and architecture,” he recalls. “My senior year, I took a drafting class, and that really opened my eyes to the world of building and design. But it wasn’t until I worked in construction during college summers that I realized this was something I wanted to pursue professionally.”
After graduating from Penn State University, Colaneri found his footing in construction, working with his cousin and uncle at Brunelleschi Construction, a development company. The company specialized in converting brownstones and older warehouses into high-end condos in Hoboken and Jersey City.
In 2011, Colaneri’s career took an unexpected turn when HGTV approached him to host a show. “I had no idea what I was getting into,” Colaneri laughs, reflecting on his transition into the media world. “But it was a whirlwind, and I ended up filming more than 100 episodes and three digital series in a decade.” His popularity grew, and alongside his cousin, Anthony Carrino, Colaneri became a beloved figure on shows like Kitchen Cousins and Cousins Undercover
DESIGNING IN NORTH JERSEY: A UNIQUE CHALLENGE
Colaneri’s expertise in both construction and design has given him a distinctive edge when working in North Jersey. While he’s tackled projects in more than 20 states across the U.S., he believes the tri-state area—especially New Jersey—presents unique challenges. “The regulations here can be a nightmare,” he says. “New Jersey has a lot of paperwork that can slow down the process, and the state is full of older homes that often throw you curveballs once you start tearing down walls.”
Despite these hurdles, Colaneri embraces the challenge, knowing each renovation is a chance to bring out the best in a space. “I always tell my clients to have a 20% contingency in the budget because unexpected issues are almost guaranteed,” he adds. “Old homes can hide all kinds of challenges, from outdated wiring to structural problems.”
THE ART OF BALANCING CLIENT NEEDS AND PERSONAL VISION
When designing a space, Colaneri starts by getting to know his clients. “The first step is always determining how the space is going to function,” he explains. “Once I grasp the function, we can start talking about form.” From there, Colaneri gathers inspiration from both the client’s preferences and his own extensive design knowledge, creating mood boards and material samples to guide the process.
“I always tell my clients that while I can give my professional opinion, at the end of the day, it’s their home,” he says. “Design is personal, and trends are fleeting. I want my work to be timeless.”
TELEVISION AND DESIGN: A HIGH-SPEED LEARNING CURVE
Colaneri's work with HGTV brought him face-to-face with a world that moved at a pace he had never encountered before. “When you’re filming a show and you have a week to build an entire kitchen, the speed is incredible,” he recalls. “We had to plan everything three months in advance, and once the build began, it was nonstop, 24-hour-a-day effort.”
This fast-paced environment shaped the way he runs his own business today. “Now that I’m focused on my own company, Lilyshea LLC, I’m really focused on upfront planning,” he says. “I make sure all design materials are selected and delivered before we break ground. That way, we don’t have to scramble in the middle of a project.”
MEMORIES FROM THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW
One of Colaneri’s most memorable projects came from his time working with The Ellen DeGeneres Show. “We did a complete home renovation in just seven days for a wounded veteran,” he says. “The speed of the build was intense, but the real motivation came from the purpose behind it. We wanted to create a home
that was not just functional, but truly comfortable for someone who had sacrificed so much.”
The project not only challenged Colaneri’s construction skills but also touched him personally. “It was an honor to work on a project that would change someone’s life,” he says. “Seeing the homeowner’s reaction when he saw his new home for the first time— I’ll never forget it.”
DESIGNING FOR HIMSELF
While Colaneri is known for creating stunning spaces for others, designing his own home presented its own set of challenges. “When you work in design, there are so many ideas you want to try,” he admits. “It can be overwhelming. But when it’s your own space, it’s about finding the balance between what you love and what works.”
For Colaneri, this means blending rustic and contemporary elements to create a home that feels both timeless and personal. “I always tell people that when they design their home, they should aim to make people feel something,” he adds. “Whether it’s love or even dislike—just don’t make it forgettable.”
BALANCING WORK AND FAMILY LIFE
Like many professionals, Colaneri’s career can be demanding, but he works hard to balance his professional life with his personal life. “Time is the one thing I wish I had more of,” he says. “But I always make sure to prioritize my family. Work doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do, but at the end of the day, my family is what matters most.”
Colaneri’s passion for design is clearly something that runs in the family. “My daughter loves to draw, especially fashion designs,” he says with a smile. “I see
“But I always make sure to prioritize my family. Work doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do, but at the end of the day, my family is what matters most.” - John Colaneri
a lot of similarities between fashion and design. Trends often overlap, and it’s fun to see her creativity blossom.”
BUILDING WHAT’S NEXT
As for what’s next, Colaneri is focused on expanding his commercial construction management business. “The past few years have been busy with major projects like Patel Brothers grocery stores,” he says. “We’re building 30,000-square-foot locations, which is a completely different challenge from residential projects. I love the challenge, and I’m excited to see these new stores open in the coming years.”
Though he’s already achieved so much, Colaneri remains passionate about the future. “I’m focused on continuing to grow my business, but I’m also always looking for new opportunities to educate and inspire others,” he says. “If I can find more time, I’d love to do even more!”
For John Colaneri, the journey is far from over. With his drive, expertise, and creative vision, he will undoubtedly continue to shape homes, businesses, and even the next generation of design enthusiasts.
JOHN COLANERI
John Colaneri is the founder of Lilyshea LLC, a design and construction management firm specializing in commercial and residential projects. In addition to his work in design, Colaneri is the author of What Can You Do With a Toolbox?, a children’s book that inspires creativity and hands-on learning for young readers.
Follow his journey and see his latest work on Instagram at @colanerijohn or visit his website at johncolaneri.com.
events
JUNE 4TH
Baby and Me
760 Northfield Ave, West Orange | 9:00 AM
JCC MetroWest invites you to an informal morning of coffee, music, conversation with other local parents/caregivers, and playtime for your little ones!
JUNE 8TH
NATURE & NURTURE - A Family Wellness Experience
Eagle Rock Ave &, Prospect Ave, West Orange | 9:00 AM
Join Latinos of Montclair, Sol Spirit Studio, and Reclama for Nature & Nurture wellness event, a unique family wellness experience designed to bring our community together in the beauty of the outdoors. For more information visit latinosofmontclair.org.
JUNE 17TH
Michael & The Rockness Monsters
10 Rooney Circle, West Orange | 6:00 PM
This is a solo show with Michael Napolitano from Michael & the Rockness Monsters, the nationally acclaimed band known for their electrifying performances and heartfelt music. The dynamic live shows blend humor, energy, and soul-stirring melodies, creating unforgettable experiences.
JUNE 20TH - JULY 7TH
State Fair - Meadowlands
1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford
Visit the New Jersey State Fair Meadowlands for a great summer adventure! With over 150 rides and attractions, hundreds of food vendors, and several free shows, it is New Jersey's biggest event that you and your family cannot miss. For more information, visit njfair.com.
JUNE 24TH
Lea Michele
30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood | 7:00 PM
Broadway star Lea Michele is set to up the stage at BergenPAC in Englewood with an unforgettable night of music, charm, and powerhouse vocals. Visit eventticketscenter.com for more info.
JUNE 28TH
Garden State Comic Fest: Summer 2025
560 Northfield Ave, West Orange | 10:00 AM
Garden State Comic Fest Summer Edition has moved and will now be held at the Codey Arena, located at 560 Northfield Ave. in West Orange, NJ, June 28-29. Codey offers additional parking, bigger panel rooms, a huge lobby area, and NYC public transportation that stops in front of the arena.
