Creativity, Connection & Summer in Westchester
Celebrating the spaces, people, and businesses bringing our community together this season.
There’s something about summer in Westchester that feels especially energizing.
The days feel a little longer, calendars fill up with gatherings and celebrations, and there’s a renewed excitement around connection, creativity, and community. From outdoor dinners and local events to new business launches and collaborations, this season always reminds me how fortunate we are to live in an area filled with so many passionate and inspiring people.
One of the stories I’m especially excited to share is our feature on Studio 405 in Bedford Hills, a creative space founded with vision, intention, and an incredible sense of community. What began as an idea inspired by the television production world has evolved into something much bigger: a welcoming hub where photographers, entrepreneurs, creators, and local businesses come together to collaborate, celebrate, and grow.
What stood out to me most while learning more about Studio 405 was not simply the beauty of the space itself, but the heart behind it. In a world where so many experiences can feel transactional, the founders created something designed to make people feel inspired, supported, and genuinely cared for. That attention to detail, hospitality, and human connection reflects so much of what makes the Upper Westchester community special.
And in many ways, that sense of creativity and collaboration defines this entire issue.
At Upper Westchester Lifestyle, one of the greatest privileges is being able to tell those stories.
To everyone featured in this issue, advertising within these pages, hosting events, supporting local causes, or simply showing up each day to make this community stronger — thank you. Your passion and commitment are what keep Westchester vibrant.
And to our readers, thank you for continuing to support local storytelling and the businesses that make our towns so unique.
We hope this issue inspires you to explore somewhere new, connect with your community, and make the most of everything this beautiful season has to offer. Wishing you a wonderful summer,
LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER
Our publication serves the communities of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappaqua, Katonah, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge and Valhalla.
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Adam Vohra | adam.vohra@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Tanya Meyers
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brook Road Photography, Hechler Photographers, Geoff Tischman
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
FULL-SERVICE RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL
Restoration, Cleaning & Reconstruction
As industry leaders in Restoration, Reconstruction and Cleaning– our vision is to continue providing strategic Consumer & Business Solutions while upholding our commitment to exemplary customer service and white glove workmanship. We work alongside our insurance partners as well as in the private sector to handle claims and home improvement projects.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: St. Jude Staff 2: Marilena Greig with Emcees Coach and Yaz 3: John Morris and Gabby Eberscole 4: Monica and Michael Rome 5: Sarah Bamford, Coach and Yaz (emcees), Lucia Bamford 6: Committee members - Seth Bernstein, Jenn and Todd Eyler 7: Give to Live Gala 2026 Committee members
8: St. Jude Give to Live Gala paddle raise 9: St. Jude patient family parents- Dr. Khurram Mehtabdin & Dr. Sarah Syed 10: Rubix Kube 11: St. Jude
15: Chair - Marilena Greig with wonderful guests! 16: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 17: Tanya Meyers, Sarah Bamford 18: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 19: Committee Member - Daisy McRandal with friends 20: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 21: emcee Yaz
Photography by Hechler Photographers
22: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests
Sponsor - Statewide Abstract Foundation Corp 24: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests
St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests
Committee member Nicole Stark with friends
Auctioneer Trey Morris
St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests
29 -35: Hope’s Door, a nonprofit which seeks to end domestic violence, hosted their annual spring fundraiser, Gala of Hope, on May 7th at The Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. The room was filled with community leaders, clients, and supporters of the organization’s mission to provide safety, shelter, advocacy, and long-term support for individuals and families affected by abuse. Guests enjoyed sunset cocktails, live music, dancing, and an auction. Photography by Geoff
Tischman
business monthly
Now Open in Mount Kisco: Blue Heron Tea & Coffee
Blue Heron Tea & Coffee opened in May at 9 Kirby Place in Mount Kisco, bringing a European-inspired café experience steps from the Metro-North station. The new spot features 21 loose-leaf teas, thoughtfully curated coffee roasted in a traditional Italian “third wave” style, and pastries from Sullivan Street Bakery, including bombolini. Housed in a former barbershop, the café combines vintage charm with cozy seating, creating a stylish new gathering place for commuters and locals alike.
Now Open in Katonah: Form & Function Aesthetics and Wellness
Form & Function Aesthetics and Wellness opened in May in Katonah, introducing a luxury wellness concept centered on regenerative aesthetics and advanced wellness treatments. Located on Goldens Bridge Road, the studio offers integrated services focused on skin and body treatments, metabolic health, and nervous system optimization. Designed as a refined, modern space, Form & Function combines longevity-focused care with an elevated client experience while offering founding memberships for a limited time.
Rock n’ Rescue Opens Cat Therapy Center in Bedford Hills
Rock n’ Rescue recently opened its Wellness Center in Bedford Hills at 1 Babbitt Road, introducing a first-of-its-kind facility dedicated to cat-focused animal-assisted therapy. The center offers structured, evidence-based programs designed to support mental health, trauma recovery, senior companionship, and youth development through guided interactions with cats and kittens. Founded by Juli Cialone, the center focuses on emotional healing, stress reduction, and community connection through both individual and group sessions for participants of all ages.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
WHERE Creativity COMES TO Life
A Bedford Hills studio blending production-level luxury with approachable community-centered creative experiences
ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY
When Marissa first stepped onto the set of The Kitchen while working as a producer for the Food Network, she wasn’t just observing a television production, she was unknowingly envisioning the future of Studio 405.
Filmed inside a sprawling industrial warehouse outside New York City, the set transformed a raw open space into a polished, fully immersive production environment. Watching a successful creative operation thrive outside Manhattan sparked an idea: Why didn’t Upper Westchester have a versatile, elevated studio space designed for both creators and community?
Years later, after losing her job and pivoting into freelance photography, the idea resurfaced at exactly the right moment. At the same time, Peter’s family had available office space inside the industrial building his grandfather and father originally built in the 1970s for their HVAC business, Malcon. What started as a conversation quickly evolved into something bigger, a photography and events studio designed to feel both luxurious and deeply welcoming. Today, Studio 405 has become far more than a traditional photography studio.
While the founders initially envisioned photoshoots and occasional events, the Bedford Hills space has organically evolved into a creative hub for everything from wellness classes and networking events to baby showers, birthday celebrations, brand launches, and content creation workshops.
“We quickly realized clients were finding ways to use the space that we never anticipated,” says Marissa. “That creativity has really shaped the evolution of the studio.”
The design itself reflects the pair’s background in television and production. Every detail was intentionally curated to create what they describe as “experiential luxury that’s accessible to everyone.”
From the moment guests enter, they’re welcomed by the studio’s signature green accent wall, thoughtfully designed lobby, and amenities that feel more boutique hospitality than rental venue. The standout feature?
Studio 405’s Greenroom which is inspired directly by the behind-the-scenes lounges used throughout the television industry.
CONTINUED >
Complete with Hollywood-style vanities, a private dressing room, lounge seating, a stocked snack cart, espresso machine, and photo-ready styling, the Greenroom has become one of the studio’s most distinctive elements.
“We wanted clients to feel like VIPs,” Marissa explains. “Not just like they rented a room for a few hours.”
That same philosophy extends throughout the studio. The main space balances timeless design with flexibility: warm neutral furnishings, vintage-inspired details, arched bookcases, a stone mantel, natural light, seamless backdrops, and professional-grade equipment all coexist within an adaptable environment that allows creators to make the space entirely their own.
But what truly differentiates Studio 405 isn’t simply aesthetics, it’s community.
The founders have intentionally built relationships with local photographers, florists, marketers, wellness professionals, and small business owners throughout Upper Westchester. Whether collaborating on seasonal installations, hosting business association meetings, or organizing monthly content creation events for entrepreneurs, Studio 405 has become a space designed to foster connection as much as creativity.
That local connection also runs deeply personal for Peter. Growing up around his family’s business inside the same Bedford Hills building, opening Studio 405 there represents a meaningful continuation of a family legacy built over generations.
“It’s really special to now have our own business in the same building his grandfather and father built,” says Marissa.
Looking ahead, Studio 405 plans to continue expanding its community-focused programming with photography workshops, retreats, and collaborative events aimed at helping creators and small businesses grow together.
At its core, however, the mission remains simple: to create a beautiful, inspiring space where people feel supported, celebrated, and creatively energized.
“We want every person who walks through our doors to leave feeling inspired, cared for, and confident,” Marissa says. “That’s always the goal.”
Inside Studio 405
Designed for more than photography:
The Bedford Hills studio regularly hosts networking events, wellness classes, showers, and branded content sessions.
Signature feature:
A Hollywood-inspired Greenroom complete with vanities, lounge seating, espresso station, and private dressing area.
Rooted in family legacy:
The building housing Studio 405 was originally built in the 1970s by Peter’s grandfather and father.
Community-first philosophy:
Studio 405 frequently collaborates with local businesses, photographers, florists, and entrepreneurs throughout Upper Westchester.
What clients value most today:
Timeless design, flexibility, comfort, and elevated experiences that feel personal and approachable.
The modeT Guide
To Summer Packing: Dressing for the Feel of Any Destination
ARTICLE BY TANYA MEYERS FASHION STYLIST @MODE_T_
A summer trip feels real the moment you book the flight, imagine the beach days, and finally look at your suitcase thinking, “What am I actually bringing?”
As a stylist and personal shopper, I help clients with this daily. Packing feels hard when you think in separate outfits instead of how you want to dress for the trip. The best travel wardrobe isn't about packing more. It’s about a clear point of view and giving yourself options without overfilling the suitcase.
The key is the feel of the trip. Italy doesn't ask the same of your wardrobe as the Hamptons. Once you know the rhythm of the destination, packing gets easier.
1. THE DRAMATIC ESCAPE
The Vibe: The Amalfi Coast or Paris. Polished, romantic, and a little more dressed up. The look here should feel easy yet have presence. Skip anything stiff. An oversized silk button-down over swimwear works beautifully by day. For evening, a slip dress or fluid skirt usually makes more sense than anything complicated. Add a lightweight blazer for dinner. Packing by outfit formulas helps: swimwear and flat sandals for day, then a slip dress, jacket, and a great earring for night. You don't need a completely different wardrobe, just pieces that shift.
2. THE CREATIVE EXPLORER
The Vibe: Lisbon or Mexico City. Relaxed, interesting, textured, and very walkable. Here, comfort matters, but style does too. You’re likely moving around all day without changing. Matching sets, relaxed trousers, and light layers work best. I love a linen vest with matching pants. Shoes matter heavily here. I once had a client try navigating Lisbon's cobblestones in wedges. Trust me, bring a sneaker or sandal you can actually walk in. Add personality with a scarf or textured bag to style simple clothes without adding bulk.
3. THE POLISHED RETREAT
The Vibe: The Hamptons or Nantucket. Clean, relaxed, and pulled together. These destinations feel classic and depend on good fabrics and easy layers. I'd stay with a simple palette, whites, creams, navy, and let the pieces work. An oversized poplin shirt, tailored shorts, and easy trousers cover a lot. But evenings cool off quickly. A great summer sweater makes simple wide-leg pants feel finished without trying hard.
THE modeT NON-NEGOTIABLES
Every suitcase needs a few basics:
• The Layer: A blazer or light jacket for the plane and dinner.
• The Finishing Piece: A belt or jewelry adding personality without a full extra outfit.
• The Real Shoe: One pair you can walk in without regret.
• The Day-to-Night Piece: A slip skirt or matching set easily dressed up.
• The Color Story: When your colors work together, you create more outfits with fewer items.
Ultimately, your wardrobe should support the trip, not complicate it. That's how I approach packing, editing well so pieces work together. If it ever feels overwhelming, it's my favorite thing to help with!
Private Spa Parties, Right at Home
Al Fr es co STYLE
Spending time outdoors and enjoying friends and family over good food and drinks is a great way to enjoy the season’s beautiful weather. From the fresh flower arrangements, produce, and herbs, this earthy spread is brimming with character and flavor. The earthy ceramic and clay vases give the perfect vessel to fill with organic cut herbs and handpicked wildflowers. We arranged a beautiful medley of Queen Anne’s lace, mint, sage, rosemary, lavender, lamb’s ear, nigella, buddleia, oregano, dill, feverfew, and geranium to name just a few of these beautiful blooms. We love a good home-cooked menu mixed with a signature drink, so we paired our meal with a delicious craft cocktail. Buttermilk brined fried chicken was a must for this outdoor party. A delicious peach bread pudding with salted vanilla caramel cream rounded out our meal for the perfect sweet treat. We wanted to share a few of our favorite recipes for you to try at home. Enjoy!
FARM-TO-TABLE ENTERTAINING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL VERSLUIS
Buttermilk Brined Fried Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
Dried spice mix
• 2 tablespoons white pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 5 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons cayenne
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• Palm kosher salt
Buttermilk Brine
• 4 cups buttermilk
• 1 bunch fresh sage
• 1/2 of spice mixture
Dredge
• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Whole cut up chicken or 2 bone-in breasts, 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks
To cook
• 4 cups shortening
INSTRUCTIONS:
Marinate chicken in brine for up to 24 hours. Place chicken in large Ziploc bag and pour marinade over top. Add fresh sage and store in fridge. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking rack with a sheet pan for raw chicken and one for cooked chicken. Add remaining spice mixture to flour mixture. Whisk together well. Heat shortening to 350 degrees. (Preference is cast iron Dutch oven) Pull chicken out of buttermilk mixture and let drip. Coat firmly in flour mixture and set on raw chicken rack. Complete each piece of chicken. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Place 2 or 3 pieces of chicken in oil and cook 3-5 minutes per side. Place on cooked chicken rack. Put cooked chicken in oven to complete cooking for 15 minutes. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving!
Peach Bread Pudding
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 loaf brioche
• 5 fresh peaches
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Dice peaches into medium dice. Place peaches, white sugar, and butter in saucepan. Cook until sugar is dissolved and peaches are soft. Mix all other ingredients together. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan and add peach mixture with brioche pieces and then add milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.
El Ahumado
“Spanish for Smoky”
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces Reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce aperol
• 3/4 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 1/4 ounces luxardo cherry syrup
• 1 spritz of Mezcal
INSTRUCTIONS:
Lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter. The Mezcal adds just a hint of smoke to make a beautifully balanced, interesting cocktail.
Lighting Is Everything
• Installing indoor and outdoor lighting for over 55 years.
• Mark Mosello is a leading design expert in the field.
• Professionally light your art, home and landscaping with customized service.
• Smart & eco-friendly options.
• Certified generator dealer + installation.
• Our style illuminates dark spaces, creating a more enjoyable and luxurious atmosphere.
JULY 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 4TH
Pops, Patriots, and Fireworks
Venetian Theater, Caramoor | 8:00 PM
Celebrate America’s 250th with Caramoor’s most festive tradition! Experience a historic Independence Day spectacular featuring the Westchester Symphonic Winds. Honor 250 years of American spirit with a program of patriotic favorites. The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display that lights up the sky. It’s a perfect 4th of July party for the whole family!
JULY 4TH
Pound Ridge 5k and Kids Dash
Pound Ridge Elementary | 9:00 AM
Celebrate the Fourth of July at Pound Ridge’s 28th Annual Road Race and 250th Anniversary celebration of the United States! This beloved community tradition features a 5K race, youth runs, family activities, face painting, awards, refreshments, and live music by the Happy Crab Band. Gather with neighbors for a festive morning filled with fitness, fun, patriotic spirit, and hometown pride.
JULY 9TH
The Sun Kings Return
Fountain Park, Mount Kisco NY | 5:30 PM
Back by popular demand, The Sun Kings return to MKAC’s summer concert series for another evening of Beatles favorites. After a well-received performance last summer, the band is back to bring the music of The Beatles to Mount Kisco once again!
JULY 12TH
Revolutionary Hunt for History in Bedford Village
Bedford Historical Society | 12:00 PM
History is everywhere if you know where to look. Join Bedford Historical Society for this fun and educational trek in the Village using clues to uncover Bedford’s history. There will be activities on the Green and at buildings and landmarks. Great for all ages!
JULY 12TH
BBQ AND BLUES 2026
Bedford Village Memorial Park | 4:00 PM
Enjoy a summer evening of live music, delicious BBQ, and community spirit at Blues and BBQ for Bedford in Bedford Village Memorial Park. This family-friendly tradition brings neighbors together for great local bands, festive outdoor fun, and a chance to support the community. Guests can relax under the summer sky while enjoying food, entertainment, and an unforgettable hometown celebration.
JULY 25TH
Jazz Festival
Caramoor Grounds | 12:30 PM
The Caramoor Jazz Festival fills the grounds with the spirit of jazz, inviting audiences to wander, listen, and discover music unfolding across Caramoor's gardens and open-air stages. Spend the day immersed in sound and shared experience, then come together for an unforgettable evening performance by Caramoor favorite Emmet Cohen, bringing the festival to a thrilling close.
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