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Hello, and welcome to the premier issue of West Valley Lifestyle - where luxury meets local, right here in Western Massachusetts.
Hey Western Mass - or should I say, hello “West Valley.” I have a feeling a new trend is starting already ... and what better time than during America’s 250th birthday celebration? Happy Birthday, America!
Inside this inaugural issue, you’ll discover beautifully curated stories that celebrate the spirit of summer, community, and elevated local living. Our cover feature, Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights, marks both the official launch of West Valley Lifestyle and America’s milestone birthday with a festive table scape designed to inspire your own summer gatherings. Consider this your VIP invitation to celebrate alongside us.
From the carefully crafted cuisine served at Tribeca Gastro Bar & Grille - featured in our editorial story - to exciting renovations and historic home transformations happening throughout Westfield, Southwick, West Springfield, Holyoke, and beyond, we are proud to showcase the people, places, and creativity shaping life in the West Valley.
You’ll also meet talented local artists and makers, including Elizabeth Hamilton Designs, whose gorgeous melamine dishes and serving pieces are featured in our entertaining story. Along the way, we’ll highlight interior designers, fashion tastemakers, entrepreneurs, and locally owned businesses that make this region so special.
As you turn these pages, we leave you with one simple challenge: explore. Wander through downtown streets, try a new restaurant, step into a local boutique, visit a nearby park - like Stanley Park - and rediscover all the beauty and inspiration that Western Massachusetts has to offer.
Thank you for inviting us into your homes and allowing us to become part of your community. We cannot wait to see you around town.
Cheers, XO
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Tricia Gouin | tricia.gouin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Madeline LeBlanc | madeline.leblanc@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tricia Gouin, Madeline LeBlanc, Hannah LeBlanc, Susan Thwing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Hillary Lynn Photography, Madeline LeBlanc
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
TRICIA GOUIN, PUBLISHER
Proverbs 3:5-6
For the sixth straight year and 20th time overall, Westfield State University earns the Howard C. Smith Cup after receiving the most points in the Smith Cup standings. The Smith Cup is awarded annually to the member institution which compiles the most points based on the placement of each of its programs competing in the league championship sports.
Scan to read more
Dakin recently had the pleasure of hosting the organization’s very first Veterinary Youth Day! 25 young animal lovers, aged 10-15, attended the special event in Springfield. Participants visited stations hosted by Dakin’s expert staff members. The stations included bandage wrapping, animal intake exams, x-rays, and suturing (on bananas). Each participant received a certificate recognizing their dedication to learning about animal health and welfare—and perhaps took one step closer to a future in veterinary medicine!
Dermaluxe Skincare Studio is a luxury skincare destination in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, founded by licensed aesthetician Lana Atayan, who brings over 20 years of industry experience. Specializing in customized facials, corrective skincare treatments, chemical peels, and brow services, Dermaluxe blends clinical expertise with a personalized, elevated experience. The studio is dedicated to helping clients achieve healthy, radiant skin through education, resultsdriven treatments, and skincare plans tailored to each client’s needs.
BY TRICIA GOUIN
Meet Waffles Dior, my two-year-old Maltipoo teddy bear who loves snuggles, dancing, and adventures. His favorite toy is a llama named Lorenzo Llamas, and he spends his days chasing butterflies and bunnies around the yard . You will definitely be seeing more of him in future issues.
One of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday afternoon is visiting local vineyards with my handsome hubby, Mark. We love sharing a charcuterie board paired with our favorite wines from Black Birch Vineyard.
My love for dance began “in the womb” as my mom would always say! I started dance at age two and have performed in national competitions, The Nutcracker with Pioneer Valley Ballet, and Off-Broadway productions including Hocus Pocus and Grease.
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed medical aesthetician, I truly believe skincare is self-care. I love reformer Pilates, sound bowl meditation, and indulging in spa treatments whenever I can, wellness should always feel luxurious!
I also love discovering new coffee spots and charming local patisseries in Western Mass, they are truly the heart of our communities!
ARTICLE BY HANNAH LEBLANC | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADELINE LEBLANC
Are you or someone you know an outdoorsy person?
Introducing Stanley Park! Located at 400 Western Ave #1 in Westfield, this park is a true gem for local nature enjoyers. Stanley Park has three-hundred acres of natural beauty to enjoy. With spaces for all sorts of activities, Stanley Park is truly a place for everyone. Throughout the year park goers can find many different walking trails, ponds, flower gardens, activities, and wildlife. If you are looking to take a pleasant stroll you can traverse the popular Rose Garden or Duck Pond. Looking for more of a hike? Check out one-hundred and sixty acres of forested walking trails through the Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also a couple of areas with truly stunning scenery I’d like to point out for those looking for some picture-perfect views. The Lily Pond is home to luscious lily pads and a colony of frogs. This pond’s natural beauty is a genuine look at how local fauna exists without human interference. Looking at the “wilder” side of things,
there is a special place within Stanley Park known as the Woodland Wildflower Garden. Featuring just about two-hundred species of wildflowers and ferns, which are all native to North America, this particular garden is a testament to natural botanical beauty across the continent. When you are done taking in the sights Stanley Park has spots for you to sit and relax. Perhaps you could pack a lunch or snacks and enjoy the many picnic areas the park has to offer. With just about everything a park could possibly offer, add Stanley Park to your list of places to explore!
One of my favorite things when visiting Stanley Park is when I get a surprise visit from one of the Westfield famous - black-phase eastern gray squirrels foraging around the pavilions and many walking trails . They have the cutest merch too! - Tricia Gouin
HISTORIC CHARM, BOLD FLAVORS, AND ELEVATED CASUAL DINING COME TOGETHER AT TRIBECA GASTRO BAR & GRILLE
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADELINE LEBLANC
What began as the historic Lambson furniture building in 1868 has now been transformed into one of downtown Westfield’s most exciting dining destinations. After years of housing different businesses and eventually sitting dormant, the space has been revived as Tribeca Gastro Bar & Grille, where history, community, and bold culinary creativity all come together under one roof.
The restoration process itself tells a story. During renovations, layers of the building’s past were uncovered piece by piece. Original brick walls were revealed after years hidden behind drywall, while beautiful windows that had once been
“We want you to have a casually elevated experience, with a fun vibe where you can meet people, relax, and enjoy.” - John Eaton, Owner
bricked over were rediscovered and restored. Wooden support beams buried beneath more than half an inch of paint were carefully brought back to their original character. Even the layout of the building was reimagined, with the elevator relocated and a staircase added to better showcase the historic architecture and create a more welcoming flow throughout the space.
The vision behind Tribeca was simple yet ambitious, to elevate the dining scene in Westfield while creating a welcoming place for people to gather. The
restaurant blends an upscale atmosphere with a comfortable, approachable energy. Guests do not need to arrive dressed formally to enjoy the experience. Instead, Tribeca delivers a high end casual atmosphere where friends can meet for cocktails, families can share a meal, and conversations continue long after the plates are cleared.
One of the restaurant’s standout features is its tapas style menu, something still relatively unique to this area. The concept encourages guests to order multiple dishes and share them around the
table, creating a more social and interactive dining experience.
Now let’s get into the real reason we are here, the food.
Each dish we sampled showcased thoughtful flavor combinations that felt elevated while still comforting. Every plate balanced rich textures, vibrant ingredients, and unexpected details that paired together perfectly.
We started with the Tuxedo Sesame Seared Tuna, a beautifully pan seared sesame ahi tuna paired with an unforgettable hoisin wasabi sauce. The tuna was
“Tribeca brings an elevated dining experience to downtown Westfield, pairing creative gastro inspired tapas with expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.”
-Tricia Gouin, Publisher
perfectly prepared and incredibly tender, while the sauce delivered the ideal balance of sweetness, saltiness, and heat. It was a bold first dish that immediately set the tone for the meal.
Next came the Grilled Lamb Lollipops served with herbed farro and toasted almonds. The lamb was cooked beautifully, with the sticky pomegranate glaze adding both sweetness and depth. The toasted almonds brought the perfect crunch and balance to the richness of the dish, while the farro tied everything together with earthy flavor and texture. It was comforting while still feeling refined and elevated.
However, the standout dish of the evening was easily the Peach and Burrata Salad, which I truly think is going to become one of the must have dishes of the summer. The dish features arugula pesto marinated burrata, layered over roasted peaches and finished with chili honey and crispy prosciutto chips. Every bite brought something different, creamy burrata, sweet roasted peaches, salty prosciutto, peppery arugula, and just the right amount of heat from the chili honey. Once I started eating this dish, I genuinely could not stop. It was one of those
combinations that sounds unexpected at first but works so perfectly together that you immediately want another bite. It is absolutely a dish I will be coming back for again and again this summer.
Beyond the food itself, Tribeca is focused on becoming part of the larger movement revitalizing downtown Westfield and the Cultural District. Through community partnerships and special events, the restaurant is helping bring new energy into the city while creating experiences people can gather around. Be on the lookout for upcoming monthly ticketed events featuring curated cocktail and food pairings that will continue bringing something fresh and exciting to the area.
Tribeca Gastro Bar & Grille successfully blends history, atmosphere, and creative dining into one cohesive experience. Whether you are stopping in for cocktails and tapas with friends or looking to experience something new in downtown Westfield, Tribeca offers a fresh perspective on what the local dining scene can be.
For more local restaurant features, food finds, travel spots, and hidden gems across New England, be sure to follow my blog @ hellofoodreviews on Instagram for your next place to visit.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
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
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.
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
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
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
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.
The Art of Entertaining Around the Perfect Summer Table - July cover story
There is an art to entertaining that goes beyond the food or décor — it’s about creating a feeling. A beautiful tablescape invites guests to slow down, gather together, and celebrate the simple luxury of summer evenings spent outdoors. For this patriotic-inspired setting, every detail works together to create a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere perfect for July celebrations in the West Valley.
Set against the backdrop of lush orchards at Deere Creek Farm, the rustic farm table becomes the foundation of the entire experience. Natural wood tones bring warmth and authenticity, while layered seasonal details transform the space into a festive summer escape. The look feels collected rather than overly styled — effortless in the way the best entertaining always does.
Running down the center of the table is a cheerful red, white, and blue floral-inspired runner that instantly sets the tone for the celebration. The mix of classic Americana colors is proof that patriotic décor can still feel refined and sophisticated when balanced with thoughtful styling.
Florals play a starring role in bringing life and romance to the table. Overflowing arrangements of red roses, white hydrangeas, and vibrant blue blooms by Durocher Florist add richness and softness while tying the palette together beautifully. Fresh flowers paired with softly glowing candles by Pearl & Company create the kind of golden-hour ambiance that makes guests linger just a little longer.
The details are what truly elevate the experience. Festive melamine plates with scalloped edges and playful American flag motif add charm while remaining practical for outdoor entertaining. Paired with layered textures and elegant serving pieces, the table feels elevated yet approachable — the perfect balance for summer hosting. Entertaining today is less about formal perfection and more about creating spaces that feel beautiful, welcoming and comfortable all at once.
To encourage guests to graze and gather, star-shaped serving dishes filled with artisan cheeses, fresh berries, crackers, and seasonal favorites by Graze Craze West Springfield are arranged effortlessly on the table. Wine glasses mixed throughout the setting alongside a bottle of Epic Red by Black Birch Vineyard adds to the relaxed elegance, encouraging guests to settle in and savor the evening.
And then, of course, there is the centerpiece everyone notices first.
Standing proudly atop a classic white cake stand is a stunning patriotic cake by Juicy Cakes decorated with whimsical red and blue stars, delicate piping, and festive sprinkles. Equal parts dessert and décor, the cake becomes the focal point of the entire table — playful, nostalgic, and undeniably joyful. Surrounding the centerpiece are red velvet mini cupcakes by Juicy Cakes topped with patriotic accents that perfectly complement the celebration.
The beauty of entertaining lies in the memories created around the table — candlelight flickering as the sun sets, laughter shared over dessert, and guests reaching for one more cupcake before the evening ends. This summer, embrace the art of gathering with layered textures, fresh florals, candlelight, and desserts worthy of becoming the centerpiece. Because sometimes the most meaningful celebrations are the ones shared around a beautifully set table under the open sky.
Cheers, XO
Tricia Gouin - Publisher
YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
What if every meal – Tuesday night included – felt just a little more graceful, a little more charming? And what if you could set that kind of table without worrying about tiny hands and the occasional tumble?
At Feel Good Shop Local (feelgoodshoplocal.com) shoppers can discover Elizabeth Hamilton Designs is a collection of thoughtfully curated tableware that feels both timeless and steeped in Southern grace. The pieces are designed to bring quiet elegance, everyday beauty, and just the right touch of durability to life around the table. For Miriam Hamilton, the founder of Elizabeth Hamilton Designs, that sense of charm is deeply personal. It is rooted in family, tradition, and a belief that beauty should be part of daily life, not reserved for special occasions. Named in honor of her great-grandmother, Elizabeth, the brand carries forward a cherished family legacy. “Elizabeth is a treasured name in my family,” Hamilton says. “It felt natural to build something meaningful around it. I wanted it to be something my children could also feel connected to.” That sense of connection is central to both her life and her work. A mother of four, Hamilton launched her business in March 2025 while balancing the demands of family life. It is a journey she describes as anything but predictable.
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI HARRIS
“I’ve always been creative,” she says, recalling earlier years spent writing and performing as a singer-songwriter. “But when I became a mom, my focus shifted. At some point, I started asking myself, “What would it look like to put that creative hat back on?” The answer emerged in an unexpected place: her dining table. After years of using everyday dishware that chipped, cracked, and wore down under the realities of family life, Hamilton saw an opportunity. She envisioned tableware that could withstand busy households without sacrificing style. “We have to eat every day,” she says. “Why shouldn’t the table be something we’re proud of, even on a Tuesday night?” That idea became Elizabeth Hamilton Designs, a collection of elevated, drop-resistant melamine tableware that blends durability with refined aesthetics. Designed to mimic the look and feel of ceramic or earthenware, each piece carries
a surprising weight and substance. These are details Hamilton intentionally fought for during the prototyping process. Her signature Embossed Pearl Collection reflects her Southern roots, with delicate detailing inspired by heirloom pearls, high tea traditions, and the understated elegance of the Lowcountry. “I’ve always loved the dainty, feminine details ... the ruffles, the softness, the charm,” she says. “I wanted to capture that in a plate.” But beyond aesthetics, the mission is clear: inclusivity at the table. Hamilton remembers growing up with fine china reserved for adults and special occasions, while children used separate, more practical settings. Her designs aim to eliminate that divide. “I didn’t want something that felt off-limits,” she explains. “I wanted pieces that everyone could use: kids, guests, even
someone who might have unsteady hands. Beauty shouldn’t come with restrictions.”
Dishwasher-safe and highly durable, her products are designed for real life, whether it’s a casual family dinner, outdoor entertaining, or a thoughtfully styled gathering. That balance – between elegance and everyday function – has resonated with customers nationwide. In just its first year, the brand has seen strong growth, repeat buyers, and expanding retail partnerships, including its presence in Westfield. Still, the path hasn’t been without challenges. As a solo entrepreneur managing both a growing business and a household, Hamilton often works in the margins of her day. She’s at work early mornings before her children wake or late nights after they’re asleep. “It’s not a straight path,” she says. “There are curveballs constantly. But my family is my priority, and I’ve had to learn how to build something meaningful without compromising that.” That perspective shapes not only how she runs her business, but how she defines success. “I don’t do everything perfectly,” she admits. “But I try to approach
each challenge with intention and do my best in that moment.” Looking ahead, Hamilton plans to expand her collection with new colors, additional pieces, and eventually complementary items like stemware. She always follows the same guiding principle: thoughtful design that enhances everyday living. For now, she’s focused on growing the brand organically while staying true to its roots. “This collection is very much a reflection of who I am... my family, my upbringing, the things I’ve always loved,” she says. “It’s been a joy to bring that into people’s homes.” And for West Valley shoppers, it’s an invitation to rethink the everyday table where durability meets beauty, and every meal, no matter how simple, feels just a little more special.
“I wanted pieces that everyone could use: kids, guests, even someone who might have unsteady hands. Beauty shouldn’t come with restrictions.”
With deep roots along the coast and a pulse on the market, I help buyers and sellers move with confidence — whether it’s a forever home, a coastal escape, or a second investment.
DRIVEN TO DELIVER, FOCUSED ON YOUR FUTURE.
DRIVEN TO DELIVER, FOCUSED ON YOUR FUTURE. REALTOR® | 617.480.2518 | let’s connect!
