Style - Design - Quality
Since 1998 Kitchens Direct Inc has stayed true to our customers every need. Being family owned and operated, we understand what it means to have the very best for your home. Our custom designs and unmatched selection are second to none. Come on into our showroom and plan your
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Swimming in Style... I Think
Ahhhh style, something that I, personally, am not exactly known for. But... just because I am not a connoisseur in the area, does not mean I cannot recognize it when I see it. I look around Westfield and Southwick, and I see it everywhere; from farms and gardens boasting a traditional Americana-type feel, slick barber shops and savvy salons, to some of the best designers and builders in the country, we have it all!
While my style may still be sitting in 1996 with my cargo shorts and free t-shirts, others can find relief that there is something for every taste and style imaginable. Do you like a nice modern coffee shop? Circuit Coffee and The Daily Grind have you covered, just to name a couple. Want to take your style out on two wheels? Indian Motorcycle can get your motor running there. Looking to get the perfect interior for your home? Our pros at Blackbird have some advice for you.
I hope you have had a fun, family filled and stylish summer so far. Soon the fall colors will be upon us, and our daily styles will all change. Please enjoy this month's issue, and as always, tell our ad partners that Wade sent you. Cheers,
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Wade Rivest | wade.rivest@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amanda Waterfield,
Virginia Maldonado, Maureen Sullivan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
j81 Studios, C.Pinney Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn
Wade turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Westfield
City Lifestyle
Published by Wade Loved by Westfield
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: En3rgy Up has become a local staple, stop in and see for yourself 2: Sarah can give that boring interior a stylish facelift. 3: Bad News Jazz & Blues Orchestra was good news to have downtown 4: Members of Granville FD congratulate one of their newest members. 5: Doce Mercer bringing the flavor to the Westfield Farmers Market. 6: Vivid crew dressed to the 9's after another Reader Raves award. Happy 20 years too! 7: No better style to be found than at Nicole Wzoreks own wedding.
Boutique Med Spa, the Fountain of Youth
At Boutique Med Spa, we combine the latest advancements in medical technology with a serene and luxurious environment to offer you a truly exceptional experience. Our team of highly skilled and licensed professionals is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs and desires.
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Stanley Park, a Local Place for All
Stanley Park of Westfield, Massachusetts is a private-non-profit organization and is pleased to offer, free to the public, numerous educational, sport and entertainment venues. We are not supported by the city, state or federal government. Visit Stanleypark.org for more info on events and sponsorships to help keep our park perfect!
Tynic Delivers on All Fronts
Is your landscape in need of a major change, but you just don't know where to start? Tynic Landscaping is the areas leader in hardscape design. Keep your yard looking the way you always dreamed, without spending a fortune.
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Photography by j81 Studios
Photography by Tynic Landscaping
STYLE as a Reflection OF SELF
The concept of “style” can mean many things. When something is “in style,” it can be current or trendy. Someone who is “stylish” is seen as polished and put together. Style can describe fashion, vehicles, hair, or a manner of speaking. Even with all these variables, the idea of style is difficult to pin down.
Sarah Pouliot of Blackbird Home Interiors sees style as being highly personal and individualized. “Style is very subjective— there’s no real definition—it’s a reflection of your personality and yourself. If someone has great style, they’re able to put together pieces that are aesthetically beautiful but that also represent their personality.”
Blackbird Home Interiors provides home design service from conceptual design to finished construction. Since opening the business in 2021, Sarah and her husband Joe have worked with many clients who struggle to define their style. But as she’s seen time and time again, people have preferences that drive design decisions and characterize an individual’s style.
Expert Tips with Blackbird Home Interiors
ARTICLE BY AMANDA WATERFIELD
“I have clients who tell me ‘I have no sense of style’ or no sense of design, but as we put things together, they know what they like. They just may not trust themselves to put it together,” says Sarah.
Style then becomes a reflection of the individual. “The reality is that styles will come in and go out all the time,” notes Sarah. When it comes to renovating a kitchen, bath, or other interior space, she recommends focusing on what you genuinely love. Trends constantly change, but if you create a space that incorporates things you love, you’ll still love it even after the trend has passed. For example, a certain color may be popular now, but if you have always loved that color, it will always be your color.
To give a redesign a longer lifespan, create a space that can be easily freshened with updated paint colors, textiles, and accessories. Sarah also recommends staying away from matched sets, instead mixing things up for a more timeless result. “Mixing styles gives you a lot more staying power,” she says. If things aren’t matched sets or themed, it’s easy to change pieces out. “We piece together lots of styles and designs, which makes your style not one thing or another and makes it go not out of style as quickly.”
Blackbird Home Interiors is based in Westfield and works primarily on kitchen and bath projects. Sarah is a licensed contractor, and the pair have the ability to change a house’s footprint as needed. Projects tend to evolve as the work progresses. “We’ve never had a project unfold exactly as the mood board we started with—design is a lot more of a slower, relational process—not a one-time thing,” says Sarah.
Sarah’s advice: choose things not because everyone loves it, but because you do.
Contact Blackbird Home Interiors at 413.437.3277 or blackbird.homeinteriors@gmail.com.
“We’ve never had a project unfold exactly as the mood board we started with—design is a lot more of a slower, relational process—not a one-time thing,” says Sarah.
Vertical Gardens Are Moving Indoors
The Stylish Home Design Trend That Will Have You Saying, “Oh, Grow Up!”
Humans have always had a penchant for propagation. Since King Nebuchadnezzar II built The Hanging Gardens of Babylon (one of the original Seven Wonders of the World) in the sixth century BC, artful gardening has fascinated folks. Today, there is a growing trend (pun intended) in home design that echoes that need to nurture, albeit on a much smaller scale. It goes by many names. Environmentalists refer to them as “green walls” or “ecowalls.” Gardeners may prefer “garden wall” or “edible wall.” Designers have dubbed them “statement walls.” But for our purposes here, we will refer to them as the architects do — as “vertical gardens.”
A vertical garden is essentially a wall, or part of a wall, that is covered with plants growing in soil or another type of medium. Though they began as outdoor architectural attractions, these wonderful wallscapes are popping up indoors, and their benefits go beyond a fancy facade.
The most obvious benefit of a vertical garden is the visual beauty it brings to the room. Its unexpected presence adds surprise and drama, while its living tenants, with their varied textures and individual personalities, add energy and a bit of charm as well.
Beyond the aesthetic advantages, living walls have health benefits. They improve the air quality by adding humidity, trapping dust particles, and absorbing many harmful gasses, replacing them with oxygen. They can help with cardiovascular issues like blood pressure as well as breathing problems associated with allergies and asthma. Because they lend a sense of calm and well being, they can even improve concentration, elevate mood, and reduce stress.
Because these living walls are becoming more popular, demand is driving the price down, making them more affordable for the average homeowner. Kits are available and most feature an integrated water delivery system which makes them low maintenance as well.
As for which types of plants to grow, succulents, mosses, grasses, and ferns are all good choices. Tropical vines work well also, as they can trail down or climb up. Pothos and philodendrons have great climbing capabilities, are fast growing, and low maintenance. The design possibilities are as endless as the plant combinations. So bring the outside in! Simply choose a location with bright, indirect light, and turn your wall into a living piece of artwork with a vertical garden.
ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER
S TRETCH INGYOU R
DOLLAR
Investing in Your Wardrobe Without Compromising Your Style
ARTICLE BY LISA WOLF
1.
IT’S POSSIBLE TO SHOW YOUR UNIQUE STYLE WITH NICE CLOTHES WHILE ALSO STRETCHING YOUR DOLLAR
One’s wardrobe says a lot about a person and it is important to dress to the occasion whether it be work or play while still expressing yourself. Building a wardrobe can be a costly expense but it’s possible to show your unique style with nice clothes while also stretching your dollar.
2.
A FUN, SUSTAINABLE WAY TO BUILD A HIGH-QUALITY AND STYLISH WARDROBE
Second-hand and vintage-style clothes are a fun, sustainable way to build a high-quality and stylish wardrobe without breaking the bank. Buying handmade and second-hand also reduces the demand for new clothing production, which helps reduce waste and the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
SIMPLE, WILD, CLASSIC, COLORFUL; DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOW YOUR STYLE
The best way to keep your wardrobe fresh is to look for either trendy or classic new pieces and match them with your favorite vintage or second-hand pieces, like a new dress with your grandma’s old leather jacket or a recently purchased foundation piece with a skirt made from vintage fabrics. Simple, wild, classic, colorful; don’t be afraid to show your style and your financial fashion savvy at the same time.
Some pieces are simply better when they are second-hand like worn denim and lived-in boots or leather that’s softened over time. Get creative and add touches to your old favorites with patches, embroidery, and even natural flower colors transferred to fabric. Grab your old t-shirts, family vintage fabrics, or lace, and pull it all together into something new and memorable.
SOME PIECES ARE SIMPLY BETTER WHEN THEY ARE SECOND-HAND 4.
“Grab your old t-shirts, family vintage fabrics, or lace, and pull it all together into something new and memorable.” 3.
My sister, Haley, used an 1800s petticoat and blouse, salvaged Edwardian style Christening gowns and a tablecloth, and other fabrics to create the most amazing vintage-style wedding dress. It was so perfectly her and absolutely gorgeous. IT WAS SO PERFECTLY HER AND ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS
Style with Flowers
ARTICLE BY MAUREEN SULLIVAN
Tina D'Agostino of Blooms Shows Us How
There’s nothing quite like a bouquet of fresh flowers to add style to your home or business. Whether picked from your garden, bought at a farmers’ market, grocery store, or designed by a florist, flowers bring joy and beauty to any space.
We chatted with Tina D’Agostino, owner of Blooms Flower Studio in Westfield about the many ways in which flowers can be arranged – no matter the season or the reason. She creates arrangements she delivers weekly to
flowers placed in a small vase on your countertop starts your day off right.
residential and business clients; she designs wedding flowers and arrangements for dinner parties, corporate and private events, or for any occasion at all. Blooms also has a wine shop in the studio, so clients can add a bottle or two of wine to their floral delivery.
Another aspect of her business is creating arrangements for branded events, photo shoots, product shots and advertising.
Creating floral installations at restaurants and other businesses is among Tina’s favorite ways to express creativity and style with flowers. “When you see pots of flowers outside or inside the door of a business, it says ‘welcome.’”
Tina notes that having flowers in your home or business is easy and affordable at this time of year. “September is prime time for cut flowers,” she adds. Think Amaranthus, dahlias, wildflowers, sunflowers, and mums – all in gorgeous, vibrant colors.
Event colors - One large welcoming arrangement with smaller arrangements placed throughout your space offers big impact
A table centerpiece in vibrant colors.
Some of Tina’s other favorites to add to arrangements in late summer into fall are ornamental kale and peppers. “I like using these with ornamental grasses for a lot of flair,” she says.
As summer winds down, Tina recommends transitioning outdoor pots to fall flowers, such as mums and decorative kale, and for the holidays, fill pots with greenery and berries.
For indoor fall arrangements, Tina likes toffee and cappuccino roses, which offer a warm palette. Decorative kale is a favorite element that she likes to add for a luxurious autumn. “It has a high petal count, more like a rose, but different,” she explains, adding that she likes to include unique things that make arrangements stand out.
For those who like to create their own arrangements, there are easy ways to add floral style to your home or office. Having a vase of flowers on your office desk can brighten your workspace and offer a bit of stress relief. At home, flowers on the dining room table or kitchen counter add color and style.
Tina usually has flowers on her kitchen countertop, which, she says, allows her to start her day with beauty.
When creating a DIY arrangement, Tina advises less is more, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money. For example, she suggests putting a bunch of sunflowers in a tall vase, or cut the stems and put a few in a smaller vase. Another simple and low-cost option Tina likes is a bunch of eucalyptus in a vase without any flowers. “It’s pretty and it has a lovely fragrance,” she adds.
When styling for a party or event, Tina suggests placing small arrangements throughout the space.
How can you take an everyday grocery store bouquet and make it more elegant? Tina shares this tip: separate the flowers and group them by color for a monochromatic look. And while most people tend
Tina D’Agostino, owner of Blooms Flower Studio, outside the studio.
“When you see pots of flowers outside or inside the door of a business, it says ‘welcome.’”
to eschew carnations, Tina says when you pull out the center, it looks more like a Lisianthus, which is a much more expensive flower.
It’s OK to break the rules, according to Tina. “If you like a crazy color combination, go for it – whatever makes you happy.”
Blooms Flower Studio
The Mill at Crane Pond, Westfield bloomsflowertruck.com 413-287-7996
CAFE Zerno
A
Taste of Family, Faith, and Fresh Beginnings in Downtown Westfield
When you step through the doors of Cafe Zerno, the hum of downtown fades away. The warm glow of lights highlight caramel-colored chairs and slatted wood walls to bring a European elegance to Westfield. You’re transported—into a space where community, culture, and fresh foods meet.
To the owners, Alisa and Marc Sychev, Zerno is more than their second location. It’s an expansion of their story and an expression of family roots. “Zerno,” generally meaning grain in Slavic languages, reflects the belief that small seeds can grow into lasting abundance. It’s a heartfelt homage to Alisa’s parents, Valeriy and Nataliya, whose lifetime of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering support is the cornerstone for success.
Here, the focus is on high-quality flavors and simple ingredients that nourish the body and soul. Imagine a full menu that carries you from morning to evening featuring fresh, approachable dishes. A standout sandwich is the Childhood Nostalgia—a comforting mix of kielbasa, smoked cheese, and crisp cucumber tucked into lavash, inspired by Alisa’s heritage. There’s also a light Italian dish adapted from a Michelin-starred chef who once served presidents and now trained them. Each bite tells a story, honoring traditions while offering something sought by Westfield.
For those who already love Crave Café, Zerno brings something different: an elevated space that feels chic and stylish—big-city vibes in a small town. It’s a reminder that their vision is about more than just coffee; it’s about creating a legacy of health, vitality, and togetherness for future generations to enjoy.
“We hope when people walk in, they can leave the outside world behind,” Alisa says. Peace, tranquility, and connection—to feel they’re part of something larger than themselves. Alisa dreamed of Zerno’s vision and welcomed the help and collaboration from other small business owners in Westfield such as Kevin with Under Budget Printing for their designs.
Here, community guides every decision, creating a café where hospitality is more than a service—it’s a calling.
Located at 34 Elm Street, Zerno welcomes bikers on the go, construction workers grabbing lunch, friends gathering for brunch, or anyone simply craving a moment of rest.
ARTICLE BY VIRGINIA MALDONADO PHOTOGRAPHY BY J81 STUDIOS
“There
is nothing better than a quality cup of coffee amongst friends. Welcome to Cafe Zerno!”
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 1ST
3rd Annual Blandford Fair Car Show
10 North St, Blandford - The Blandford Fair | 10:00 AM
Beautiful trophies, 50/50 raffle, Demo Derby and MORE! email blandfordcarshow@gmail.com for registration and info. Come and see what all the FUN is about!
SEPTEMBER 6TH
2nd
Annual Papermen Golf Tournament
459 Russell Rd, Westfield - Tekoa Country Club | 10:00 AM
To sign up or sponsor: Contact Jill Dubuque at jilliandubuque@yahoo.com or call (413) 537-1711
Whether you’re swinging a club or just coming for the fun, there’s something for everyone — lunch and dinner are included for golfers, plus raffles and entertainment throughout the day!
$150 per person / $600 per foursome
$40 dinner tickets available for non-golfers.
SEPTEMBER 7TH
Charity Quarter Auction
1458 E.Mntn Rd, Westfield - East Mountain Country Club | 1:00 PM
What's a quarter auction? The rules are simple: based on the value of the item, the vendor announces how many quarters you need to place in the middle of the table to enter. For each paddle you want to bid on, put that number of quarters in the middle of the table, and then they call a number - and you hope it’s the one on your paddle!
SEPTEMBER 13TH
The Pink Way Car Show & Vendor Fair
182 Lockhouse Rd, Westfield | 10:00 AM
Join The Pink WAY Foundation at their 4th Annual Car Show & Vendor Fair hosted by The Schermerhorn’s. We have food and music!
Show car entries are $10.
Spectators are asked to bring cans and bottles for redemption as an entry fee.
SEPTEMBER 19TH
Will
Evans with Hayley Jane Flying Solo
707 College Hwy, Southwick - The Barn at WRBC | 7:00 PM
Come out for a great all ages show. Doors open at 7:00, with music playing by 7:30. tickets on etix.com or find more on Westfield River Brewing Co's Facebook page.
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Southwick FD/PD Association Golf Tournament
161 Sheep Pasture Rd, Southwick - Edgewood Golf Course | 10:00 AM
Please come support your local heroes at this year's FD/PD Golf tournament. Look us up on the "Birdease" app for signups and information.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
A Healthier Margarita
DISCOVER THE DELICIOUS FRESH TASTE OF A CLASSIC MARGARITA MADE WITHOUT SUGARY MIXERS
ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER
Whether you’re hosting a pool party or simply enjoy sipping the sweet and tartness of an amazing Margarita, this healthier version with these natural ingredients is sure to make your palate happy. This is all fresh ingredients, no mixers. It’s just as easy, much cleaner and better for you!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz. Casamigos Reposado or Blanco Tequila
• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
• .25 oz. Fresh Orange Juice
• .5 oz. Agave Nectar
• .5 oz. Orange Liqueur
• Garnish with a lime wheel through a skewer
INSTRUCTIONS
• Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker.
• Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rocks glass.
• Add fresh ice and garnish.
ENJOY UP TO A $300 ACCOUNT BONUS
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$150 promotional offer is for enrolling in eStatements and having a minimum of $1,000 in aggregate direct deposits posted to the account OR enrolling in eStatements and conducting a minimum of 25 point of sale (POS) debit card transactions of $10 or more posted to the account within the first 90 days of account opening. The bonus will be credited to the account by the last day of the statement cycle following the 90th day the account was opened. $150 loyalty bonus will be paid after the account has been open for 12 months if the account is still enrolled in eStatements and has an active recurring direct deposit posted to the account within the last statement cycle OR if the account is still enrolled in eStatements
