Issuu

Millburn & Short Hills The

A WELLNESS

DESTINATION

SKIN LOVE TODAY

FRESH INTERIORS WITH RAQUEL STEIN

Artistic hair coloring and tailored skin care come together at 46 Essex Street, creating a transformative beauty space open to all.

18 Elevate Your Summer Escape

Our editor’s must-have products for your favorite summer getaways.

24 A Fresh Perspective

Raquel Stein takes a new approach to interior design at her studio in downtown Millburn.

THIS

4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Summer Breeze

6 AROUND TOWN

Upper Millburn Avenue Block Party

8 LOCAL TASTES

The Local Scoop

30 Q&A Innovating with Integrity

32 PHOTO OP Forty and Fabulous COVER

Preston (second from left) and Greyson (far right) from Millburn enjoy a sweet escape with their friends (left to right) Parker, Keira and Keana, complete with refreshing ice cream at Van Leeuwen.

Photograph

Erica Moffitt

aSUMMER BREEZE

AS JULY GRACES us with its warmth, we find ourselves grateful for the slight pause in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This month, we’re thrilled to present you with a collection of summertime stories that highlight our fascinating residents, emerging businesses and a dash of summer glam inspiration.

It’s incredibly fulfilling for us to hear how our features make a tangible impact. Many of those we’ve spotlighted enjoy increased visibility, drawing both inquiries and well-deserved recognition. Whether it’s a new and innovative catering brand, congratulations shared or trips inspired by our stories—your feedback is our greatest reward.

Thank you for continuously sharing your ideas and letting us bring them to life. We cherish the opportunity to make a difference in this jewel of a community. As we savor mid-summer’s sweetness, may you find time to enjoy a cone, unfurl a picnic blanket and embrace the summer breeze. Remember, slowing down is the perfect recipe for recharging.

We’re eager to hear your story ideas for our upcoming fall issues. Reach out to us anytime at marylima@ millburnandshorthills.com and editor@ millburnandshorthills.com. Here’s to a beautiful, restful and inspiring summer!

Warm regards,

Mary Lima Publisher

Millburn & Short Hills

MAGAZINE

Publisher Mary Lima

Editor and Lead Writer Eve Golden

Writers

Amanda Dean Maile Winterbottom

Photographer Erica Moffitt

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

VP, Group Publisher, Regional

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Millburn & Short Hills magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Millburn and Short Hills, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Upper Millburn Avenue Block Party

BY STEVE GRILLO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND AMANDA DEAN, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS, EXPLORE MILLBURN-SHORT HILLS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS for the party of the summer right here in Short Hills on July 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Upper Millburn Avenue Block Party is the perfect way to feel like you are at a beach, a carnival and a backyard cookout all mixed into one. The great thing is you don’t have to travel, get seasick or host a party—just attend, relax and enjoy.

Bring your kids, bring your partner and meet up with family and friends, all just footsteps or a short ride from home. Sit back to the sounds of “yacht rock” and your favorite summer tunes with live music and DJs throughout Millburn Avenue in Short Hills. Enjoy food and drink vendors from lobster rolls at Jack’s Surf & Turf to acai bowls at Taste Buddy. It wouldn’t be a party without a beer garden—and who would be better than Bull N Bear Brewery?

Check out pop-up tents full of games and giveaways. Bring your ‘A-game’ to participate in the Block Party cornhole tournament to win gift cards to local shops and restaurants. Let the kid in you take a stroll down memory lane with carnival games from Krazy Kans and Duck Hunt to Flip-A-Chick, as well as circus entertainment. It wouldn’t be a beach party without a few sandcastles. Come admire jawdropping professional sand art and let your little ones dig for treasure in sandboxes. Don’t forget to bring your four-legged friends for fun activities and treats.

There is so much to enjoy in this gem of a neighborhood—with awesome local businesses open to explore. Although there will be plenty of seating for Block Party attendees, we encourage you to bring your favorite beach or lawn chair. This event is presented by Explore Millburn-Short Hills and would not be possible without the generous support of our signature sponsor Garden Communities & The Metropolitan.

For event details, please visit exploremillburnshorthills.org or follow Explore on Instagram @exploremillburnshorthills. Event vendors are subject to change. This event is rain or shine.

GREENWOOD GARDENS

Gatsby Date Night

(Thursday, July 10 at 6:00 p.m.)

Take your date on a romantic stroll through this century-old garden with a glass of bubbly and nibbles in hand. Step back in time and imagine how life and nature were celebrated during the 1920s when the Day family lived on the property and entertained guests. Come dressed up in the style of the day or use our costume props for selfies! $50 per couple

MILLBURN FOOD PANTRY

Millburn Township operates a food pantry for residents in need. The pantry is available by appointment only and is mainly stocked with non-perishable foods. Food drop-offs can be made at the resident’s home or arranged for a more discreet location. The pantry also accepts monetary donations, which are exchanged for gift cards to local supermarkets, then distributed to food pantry recipients. To drop off items, please visit Town Hall at 22 East Willow Street.

TAKE A HIKE AT THE SOUTH MOUNTAIN RESERVATION FAIRY TRAIL

Summer hikes are great, and this half-mile trail has been inhabited by fairies! As you walk along the white-blazed path, look carefully and you will find where they have chosen to live. Fairies build their homes in tree hollows and roots, or from natural materials they find in their habitat, such as branches, stones or dried fungi. Fairy houses are delicate, so be very gentle and try not to disturb any fairies that may be inside.

DOWN THE BLOCK

Down the Block is a non-profit corporation created and run by a group of MillburnShort Hills residents who are concerned that people right here in our town are struggling financially. Since their inception in 2009, Down the Block has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to cover expenses for hundreds of neighbors in need. Down the Block is the only organization that can step in to pay a bill for a Millburn Township resident experiencing a temporary, unforeseen financial need. If you are interested in donating and supporting, visit them online at downtheblock.org.

ABOUT EXPLORE MILLBURNSHORTHILLS

Explore Millburn-Short Hills is the 501(c)3 non-profit organization established to support and promote the businesses throughout the five areas of the Special Improvement District that was established in 2020. Explore organizes numerous events, musical performances, educational programs and networking events. The organization is also responsible for various public art and streetscaping projects in the town including the Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.

The Local Scoop

Millburn’s burgeoning ice cream scene offers something for everyone. As we reach for cones, cups and pints to beat the summer heat, we caught up with four unique shops serving up this age-old treat.

BY MAILE WINTERBOTTOM

THE NEW YORK KID ON THE BLOCK: VAN LEEUWEN

Since its buzzy opening in early May, Van Leeuwen’s ice cream bar has brought inventive flavors and highquality ingredients to Main Street, striking a chord with the town’s foodie demographic. From classics like vanilla bean—which was rated one of the best vanilla ice creams of 2025 by The New York Times—to quirkier flavors like mango sticky rice, the New York-based business

is bringing a cosmopolitan edge to downtown.

Van Leeuwen’s ice cream base is rich in egg yolks, resulting in a creamy, custard-like texture. CEO Ben Van Leeuwen, who co-founded the company in 2008, recognizes that the shop’s success has always come back to basics. “From day one, our mission was to make ice cream in the best way possible. What that meant to us was using cream, eggs, milk, sugar, a little bit of sea salt—

nothing else,” Van Leeuwen says. “We never wanted to be one of those ice cream companies that just built themselves off crazy flavors.”

Unique flavors may not be the key to Van Leeuwen’s success, but they certainly make up a notable feature of the brand. This summer, more adventurous customers can indulge in limited edition specials such as strawberry yuzu cheesecake, sweet corn and blueberry jam and alphonso mango sorbet.

Top right: Co-owner Ben Van Leeuwen (center) celebrates the opening of Van Leeuwen in downtown Millburn. Bottom right: $1 scoops had new customers lining up on opening day.

A FRESH FACE ON MILLBURN AVENUE: URBAN SCOOP

The newest player in the Millburn ice cream scene: Urban Scoop. An ice cream startup with two other locations in Ridgewood and Livingston, Urban Scoop officially opened its doors at the end of June. To reflect its scrappy roots, Urban Scoop is not afraid to make a splash by departing from traditional ice cream lineups. “We are constantly introducing new flavors and do not restrict ourselves to a fixed variety unlike the franchises,” owner Jawahar Balakrishnan says. “Our goal is to bring into the Millburn community an ice cream shop that will be frequented regardless of winter or summer because of the variety we have.”

This summer and beyond, those looking for a twist can visit Urban Scoop for flavors like strawberry lychee, saffron kulfi and fruit blossom. Balakrishnan, who plans to move to Millburn soon, shared his long-term goals for the shop. “We also plan to have live music once we get started,” he says. “Our vision is to offer something different and unique.” He sees Urban Scoop as a community hub, where customers can enjoy innovative flavors and cultural events. With plans to expand the menu seasonally and introduce new experiences, Urban Scoop is sure to become a staple in downtown Millburn for years to come.

Top: Co-owners Jawahar Balakrishnan (left) and Ram Sekar (right) bring a fresh, eclectic frozen treat spot to downtown Millburn.

SCOOPING COMMUNITY:

HAÄGEN-DAZS

While the new ice cream shops work to carve out their place in downtown, another shop has cemented itself as a Millburn staple for more than 30 years. Situated neatly on Millburn Avenue, HaägenDazs has become a beloved part of the community. Over the years, it has connected with countless Millburn and Short Hills families, recreational sports teams and local charities through its classically delicious ice cream varieties and custom cakes that are all made with natural ingredients and no artificial

preservatives or colors.

Lee Lai has owned Haägen-Dazs Millburn since 2013 and has enjoyed seeing several sets of employees and customers grow up coming to the shop. Lai reflects on the importance of connection in serving ice cream to town patrons. “It has been an honor to serve the community and contribute a small dose of extra joy with each scoop,” she says.

“From the ‘regulars’ with their go-to orders to new faces, we are always considerate of everyone’s needs, and customers can feel confident knowing that care and quality are guaranteed with every experience.”

Haägen-Dazs is known for its reliable and delectable array of frozen treats, from dazzler sundaes and smoothies to more than 30 flavors of ice cream. This summer, customers can drop in to enjoy the shop’s newest flavor: salted brown butter cookie. As the menu continues to evolve to match discerning tastes, Lai acknowledges her gratitude for Haägen-Dazs’s longstanding place in town. “We have seen stores in town come and go, but the Millburn-Short Hills community has chosen us time and time again and allowed us to still be here. And for that, we are grateful.”

Left: Häagen-Dazs offers delicious custom cakes that are all made with natural ingredients. Right: Häagen-Dazs Millburn Owner Lee Lai: “It has been an honor to serve the community and contribute a small dose of extra joy with each scoop.”

ICE CREAM, REIMAGINED:

SCREAM TRUCK

While we may not all scream for ice cream, patrons of one Short Hillsbased ice cream business will text for it. Scream Truck, co-led by Short Hills resident Jason Black since its founding in 2020, is an ice cream truck business that uses technology to transform the traditional ice cream experience. Local customers can sign up to receive a text if a Scream Truck will be in their area on a given day, in which case they can reply “Yes” to get ice cream delivered to them. “It’s like a tap on the shoulder saying, ‘Hey do you want an ice cream today?’” Black, the

President of Scream Truck, explains. Scream Truck’s unique way of connecting with customers has driven the company’s success and ability to franchise in recent years. Moving forward, Black and his colleagues are looking to expand this text-based business model— dubbed “impulse”—to deliver other products, starting with the launch of a pizza truck in March of this year. “We give people something to look forward to,” he says. “That’s our business is working, because reaches people in a different way and elicits that feeling of ‘This fun, I want to talk about it; I want share it with my family and friends.’”

Left: President of Scream Truck, Jason Black. Top right: Scream Truck classics, Nutty Becky Sundae. Bottom right: Sweet Savannah Sundae.

LAWRENCE J. GREENBERG

PRICE UPON REQUEST

Oceanfront | New Home in Bay Head, designed and built by Orchard Hills Design & Construction. This 6 bedroom, 6½ bath shingle style home is available for immediate occupancy. Admire the marble slab kitchen backsplash and countertops. Enjoy the latest flush outlets by Bocci in the kitchen, Wolf, Sub-Zero and Scottsman appliances. The home features Urban Electric & Tracey Glover lighting fixtures throughout. All of the custom tile design was completed by Virtue Tile(Summit) featuring Ann Sacks and Artistic Tile. Hardware designs featured plumbing fixtures by Franz Viegener & California Faucets, throughout the home are custom rift & quartered blonde white oak floors. The home is fully automated by Control4 and a full Lutron lighting system with cameras and a Sonos multi zone sound system. Western red cedar roof shakes & siding shingles complete this shingle style Bay Head home.

BAY HEAD NEW JERSEY Visit our website 2MountSt.com

Lawrence J. Greenberg, Broker Associate

(732) 691-7524 DIRECT (732) 899-0272 OFFICE

Designed & Built By

Beauty on Essex

Step into 46 Essex Street, where self-care thrives through two unique concepts: a haven for transformative skincare and wellness and a premier studio dedicated to the artistry of hair color.

BY EVE GOLDEN

SKIN LOVE TODAY

SKINCARE OFTEN FEELS

synonymous with quick fixes and digital-age perfectionism. Jeane Tumbaga, founder of Skin Love Today, redefines the standard. Her skincare studio is a sanctuary where science, empathy and holistic renewal blend, inspired by her winding career from interior design to nursing and regenerative aesthetics. “I wanted to create a quiet, intentional space to reconnect with yourself, where individuals could reset and feel genuinely cared for,” she says.

NURTURING VITALITY

“Holistic wisdom and science are not opposites—they’re partners,” Tumbaga explains. Treatments consider everything from gut health to emotional resilience.

“Beauty treatments are a piece of the puzzle, but without addressing lifestyle, stress and internal rhythms, results will always be short-lived.” Clients often arrive chasing radiant skin but leave with a deeper understanding of their well-being. “Aging is a privilege— one we too often forget to celebrate,” she says.

Rather than considering wrinkles as flaws, Tumbaga reframes them as markers of wisdom, resilience and self-understanding. “What we saw as a ‘flaw’ last year might be something we now accept or even miss. Skincare isn’t about reversing time; it’s about honoring our skin’s journey—health is wealth. When we nurture that, self-criticism softens and confidence returns.”

PREVENTION AS POWER

As modern society consumes corrective serums and invasive procedures, Tumbaga champions prevention, with sun protection as her requisite.

“The sun is the skin’s most aggressive enemy,” she says. “It doesn’t discriminate, and it shows up even behind clouds or through windows. Hats, dedicated SPF, sunglasses— these are non-negotiables,” she insists. “Regardless of how much you spend on treatments, they won’t be effective without daily sun protection.”

Education is central to Skin Love Today. First-time clients receive what Tumbaga calls a “mini-masterclass,” blending tactile assessments with conversations about stress, sleep and nutrition. “I examine the skin not just visually, but through touch—feeling warmth, texture and elasticity,” she explains. She is also a proponent of “tweakments” for subtle enhancements; however, the foundation—skin health, mental wellness and lifestyle—should be well-established initially.

BARE ESSENTIALS

To keep it simple but effective, especially

TOP TREATMENTS

Hello, Goodnight Facial

for two of the biggest concerns— pigmentation (“which happens to be my personal biggest ick”) and aging gracefully—Tumbaga’s product philosophy mirrors her minimalist approach. For hyperpigmentation, she swears by vitamin C and glycolic acid; for aging, peptides and retinol (“clinically proven to stimulate collagen”). “On the wellness side, I have my go-to essentials: ashwagandha for stress support, magnesium glycinate to help with deeper sleep and probiotics to keep the gut in check,” she says. “I also use turmeric for its powerful antiinflammatory benefits, and glutathione, which has been a quiet game-changer for cellular energy and aging from the inside out.”

“Every year, the idea of ‘aging gracefully’ evolves, but let’s be honest— we’re not trying to stay 20 forever. Growing up, I thought the Golden Girls were ancient in their 50s, but now I realize aging is more mindset than numbers. I started using regenerative devices like microneedling and lasers in my 30s, with the understanding that it’s not about freezing time— just evolving.”

Best enjoyed at night, a wind-down ritual designed to relax your nervous system and support your skin’s overnight repair for ultimate restoration.

Restorative Crown Ritual

A true mind-body reset to activate the parasympathetic nervous system—your rest-anddigest mode—melting away stress and tension.

TRIED AND TESTED

OLEHENRIKSEN Truth Serum Hydrating Vitamin Serum: Brightens and boosts elasticity

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen: Weightless and breathable with a natural finish

COLOR THEORY HAIR SALON

BETTY MEDINA

APPROACHES hair design with the precision of a scientist and the soul of an artist. For over two decades, the Color Theory hair studio founder has redefined what it means to master color, treating each client as a fresh canvas.

“Hair is never one-size-fits-all,” she says. It’s a conversation between biology, personality and lifestyle. We use the science of color theory, the art of placement and a deep understanding of what each client wants,” Medina adds. “That’s why we say custom color is our specialty— every formula is designed for the person in the chair.”

THE COLOR THEORY

At Color Theory, Medina creates custom color formulas by considering skin undertones, eye hues and hair texture, then cross-referencing them with lifestyle details. “One of my favorite transformations was a client who came in with grown-out roots and a warm blonde base. We transformed her into a stunning, bright platinum blonde—completely refreshing her look and giving her an icy, high-impact finish she

had been dreaming of,” Medina shares. “I’m also loving the rise of ‘expensive brunettes’—rich, glossy, multi-dimensional shades that feel timeless,” she explains. Medina also praises the ‘buttery blonde’ soft focus finish and hair cutting techniques that enhance natural texture and movement for an effortless look.

A BOUTIQUE APPROACH

Custom glossing treatments are a client favorite at Color Theory. “It’s not just a shine boost—each gloss is a unique formula that enhances tone, vibrancy and health, leaving hair looking polished and refreshed between color appointments,” she notes. As clients happily drift out of the studio with hair that mirrors their best self, Medina resets her station and the next unique canvas awaits. In the meantime, she shares that shampoo can be overrated. “Shampoo less, hydrate more! Overwashing can strip natural oils, so it’s all about finding the right balance to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.” But that’s a story for another day.

TOP TREATMENTS

Sun Kissed Highlights

Subtle dimension and brightness that frames your face for a year-round summer glow

Express Root Glow

A quick glow-up designed for busy schedules, delivering seamless coverage and a fresh, radiant finish

TRIED AND TESTED

Moroccanoil Treatment: Smooths, hydrates and adds a healthy shine

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector

Restores strength and resilience, ideal for chemically treated hair

Elevating Aesthetics

Dr. John Paul Tutela bridges innovation and empathy in modern aesthetics at Tutela Plastic Surgery and the T Spa by Tutela Plastic Surgery.

BY EVE GOLDEN

DR. JOHN PAUL Tutela is transforming the patient experience in plastic surgery with a genuine commitment to care. “Every aspect of the patient journey is prioritized,” he shares. Whether it means going the extra mile to meet their goals or ensuring smooth operations, patient happiness is paramount. “I’m a patient-first practitioner, and we go above and beyond in every aspect of their experience; from the moment they walk in, they’re greeted with a smile and open arms.”

Dr. Tutela’s expertise shines in breast cancer reconstruction. “I perform what’s called a DIEP flap, utilizing the latest advanced microscopic techniques to rebuild a woman’s breast from her abdomen,” he says. This procedure is crucial for breast cancer patients, and only a handful of surgeons in New Jersey are skilled in it. His team is proud to be among them.

The practice also specializes in breast and body cosmetic surgery, offering procedures like breast

implantation, lifts and tummy tucks, often combined as a “mommy makeover.” This diverse expertise led to the creation of T Spa by Tutela Plastic Surgery, focusing on nonsurgical facial rejuvenation. “We offer Botox, fillers, medical-grade skincare, and energy devices like Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling and Lasers,” Dr. Tutela explains, highlighting the importance of selfcare. “Now more than ever, people are taking the time and budget to do something just for themselves.”

One of the most exciting new additions to the service line brings men’s aesthetics into the practice. FUE (follicular unit extraction) hair transplants with NeoGraft brings an opportunity to restore selfconfidence to men with thinning and balding hair. “It’s nice to finally offer something that really works for so many men that are suffering,” Dr. Tutela says.

Dr. Tutela opened his surgical practice in 2014 and recently expanded with the T Spa by Tutela

Plastic Surgery to address gaps in the med spa industry. He explains, “With the influx of med spas now available, I wanted to create an elevated experience, overseen by a board-certified plastic surgeon.” As a third-generation doctor and member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Tutela continues to lead with innovation and thoughtfulness, ensuring his patients receive the best in aesthetic treatment and experience.

Paul Tutela, MD

T SPA

Tutela Plastic Surgery 64 River Road East Hanover, NJ 973-727-0276

John

Maritime

1. Zimmerman Ascension Plunge Halter Maxi | *Zimmerman 2. Jo Malone London Beach Blossom Cologne | *Sephora 3. Surf Shack Laid-Back Living by the Water book | Bungalow, 353 Millburn Ave. 4. RMS Beauty SuperNatural Radiance Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen | Bluemercury, 341 Millburn Ave. 5. Veronica Beard Shell Cord Necklace | *Veronica Beard 6. Zimmerman Goldentime Fringe Tote | *Zimmerman 7. Agate hoop earrings | Bungalow, 353 Millburn Ave. 8. Oliver Peoples Gregory Peck Sun frames | *Oliver Peoples 9. Retrospec Chatham Step Through Single Speed Beach Cruiser Bike | *Anthropologie

New Wave

into the ultimate summer capsule for the modern lakefront retreat, sunsets and spontaneity optional

1. Twisted nautical knot necklace | *Anthropologie 2. Shiraleah Zip Pouch | Paper, Ribbon & Wrap, 271 Essex St. 3. Nic + Zoe Coastline Tank | Jia, 359 Millburn Ave.

4. Closed Lyna Jeans | *Anthropologie 5. Veronica Beard Cayden Polo Dress | *Veronica Beard 6. Soleil Toujours Daily Defense Mineral Body Lotion SPF 30 | *Sephora

7. Raffia fisherman sandals | *Anthropologie. 8. Anton Desktop Clock | *Pottery Barn 9. Business & Pleasure Premium Cooler Bag | *Pottery Barn 10. Sardines doormat | *Anthropologie

at the Mall at Short Hills.

Locals Only

Millburn and Short Hills on Summer Holiday

A Fresh Perspective

With a new interior design showroom nestled in downtown Millburn, Raquel Stein looks beyond aesthetics to reimagine spaces that feel both intimate and universally inviting.

BY EVE GOLDEN

IIN AN INDUSTRY often preoccupied with fleeting trends, Raquel Stein, founder of Raquel Stein Interior Design, has built a reputation highlighted by a refined rebellion against the disposable. Reflecting on her beginnings in 2011 while studying in London, she shares, “I quickly fell in love with transforming spaces, creating homes that reflect both beauty and function.” Stein’s design ethos, honed through years of collaboration, marries warm neutrals with sleek modernity. “I’m drawn to sculptural softness, organic curves, earthy materials and quiet luxury.”

The first question she asks any client is, ‘How do you want to feel in this space?’ This answer guides everything from the color palette to the layout. “Design is emotional, and that feeling becomes our north star,” Stein explains. The new Millburn Avenue

Stein explored fresh trends and designers at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Italy, a major international trade show for furniture and design.

showroom immerses clients in her world, designed as a living mood board and an extension of her philosophy. “Clean lines, thoughtful materials and moments that invite connection— it’s more than a showroom; it’s a creative hub. Clients can see, touch and experience our selections in real life. Every corner was built to reflect both form and function, just like the homes we design.” When asked about her process, Stein emphasizes the importance of understanding her clients. She says, “It starts with listening, understanding how they live, what inspires them and even what doesn’t work. Then I translate that into a visual story through mood boards, material samples and 3D visuals.

Every decision flows from the client’s needs, guided by a consistent aesthetic thread.”

During her industry trade show excursions, most recently to Italy, Stein discovered a small Venetian brand that handcrafts lighting from Murano glass with modern silhouettes. “I’m excited to bring a few of their pieces into upcoming projects,” she shares. Describing the perfect “aha!” moment on a buying trip, Stein says, “It’s instinctive when you see a piece and immediately picture the room, the way the light will hit it, or how it’ll complete a vignette. It’s like recognizing a missing puzzle piece.”

AN EMOTIONAL BLUEPRINT

The showroom’s Millburn location owes itself to a serendipitous connection with Natia Rufolo (a former Short Hills resident who owns Natalie’s School of Performing Arts in Millburn), and the nationally recognized founder

of INJX BY NAT Aesthetics. Rufolo commissioned Stein to redesign her Morristown home—a project that reshaped the designer’s trajectory.

“Natia’s love for Millburn-Short Hills and how much she missed the community truly inspired me,” Stein says. “She is an important part of this journey, and I’m grateful for her enthusiasm. It felt like the right place to plant roots and create something lasting.”

Currently, Stein is reimagining Rufolo’s closet, merging luxury with pragmatism—a project she describes as a space where Natia can “dream and feel inspired” with an “overall sense of elegance and peace.” Stein says, “We begin with function: what a client stores, how often they access it and what they need easy visibility for. Once the layout is right, we layer in materials and details that bring beauty—hidden lighting, matte finishes and soft-close mechanisms. Organization becomes

This page: Stein is designing an inspired dream closet for her client, Natia Rufolo, featuring triple chandeliers, soft LED lighting, matte finishes, soft-close mechanisms, and custom drawer organizers. Opposite page: At Salone del Mobile in Milan, Stein shops the newest innovations in interior design. Bottom: Raquel Stein (right) and Natia Rufolo, a former Short Hills resident and Stein’s current design client.

elegant.” Soft LED lighting, triple chandeliers and custom drawer organizers are featured along with Rufolo’s must-have space to display her handbag and shoe collection and a vanity area.

“The design blends luxury and functionality with a modern aesthetic,” Stein says. When asked to highlight a hidden star in the closet design, Stein points to the bronzeframed glass doors. “Using bronzetinted glass, we added a sense of depth and warmth to the space even when the doors are closed,” she says. “Inside, integrated lighting reflects softly off the mirrors, creating a subtle glow that elevates the whole closet. It’s functional, refined and adds a layer of sophistication that clients love.”

EVOLVING SPACES

With her showroom now open and projects expanding, Stein is excited about the future. “We’re growing into full-home renovations and boutique commercial spaces,” she says. “A dream project would be designing a wellness-focused retreat or a boutique hotel space where design has the power to truly transform mood and experience.”

And when it comes to knowing when a space is truly complete, Stein believes, “A space is finished when it reflects the people who live in it. But like life, design evolves. That’s part of the magic— allowing room for growth, new pieces and new memories.”

Innovating with Integrity

Meet Uvika Sharma: Millburn mom, AI trailblazer and the strategist helping businesses navigate the data-driven future.

BY MAILE WINTERBOTTOM

INTERVIEW WITH UVIKA SHARMA

UVIKA SHARMA, founder of INTLDA, a Millburn-based consulting firm, is a leader in the AI and data space. She empowers companies to thrive as technology reshapes industries, ensuring they stay ahead of trends while maintaining a strong ethical focus.

Could you tell us a bit more about INTLDA and its mission?

INTLDA’s motto is to empower people to leverage the power of artificial intelligence responsibly. In short, it’s an AI consulting organization where I help companies— whether coaching Fortune 500 firms or starting small businesses—to first understand AI and then implement it responsibly, ensuring they avoid potential pitfalls.

What experiences in your career drove you to establish INTLDA?

I’ve been in the data and AI space for over 20 years. I started my career on Wall Street in various roles, then worked at Accenture in business transformation, always using data to aid decision-making. I was a jack of all trades, gaining experience across industries, domains and functions and

Sharma took the stage at the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington D.C., moderating an international startup pitching session attended by participants from over 96 countries.

realized the need for a dedicated entity. So, a year and a half ago, I founded INTLDA, focusing solely on data and AI consulting.

Why do you think it’s important for companies to leverage AI in reaching their goals?

Every economy, especially developed ones, is investing heavily in AI because that’s where the future is—and the future is now. AI is transforming many fields, such as supply chains and marketing. It can analyze data, prepare reports and compile PowerPoint presentations in minutes. Believe it or not, people are building one-person businesses using AI. So, if you’re not using AI or are hesitant to do so, you need to think twice, because a company that doesn’t use AI will certainly become obsolete.

A big focus of your work is advocating for AI responsibility. What does responsible AI use look like to you? When it comes to responsibility with AI, it’s important to consider, ‘What is

the purpose of using this, and how will it benefit me?’ Additionally, think about what could go wrong with the technology. For instance, if you’re using it in your business and it impacts the customer, transparency is necessary.

Second, when you’re using data to inform your models or collecting data to feed back into the model, ensure you’re not compromising any private data. Being mindful of data privacy is essential. Lastly,

Left: A fireside chat at NYC’s decade-running Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference, discussing how women entrepreneurs can leverage AI benefits. Right: Sharma at the AI Summit in Washington D.C., assisting attendees with AI bot development alongside her co-founder, Padmini Soni, of Asian Women Advancing AI.

Bottom: Sharma hosting the New Jersey AI Summit at Tiger Labs in Princeton, bringing together top industry and academic leaders.

responsibility involves using critical reasoning skills and recognizing that the technology can be biased, such as when generating images.

What advice would you give to average people looking to incorporate AI more productively into their daily lives?

You need to understand what the technology is capable of doing. When I talk to people, they often say they know how to use ChatGPT, and that’s not a bad place to start. I love that we now have generative tools capable of so much; they can help with data analysis, marketing, video generation and even creating music and images. I recently used AI to generate a 30-second animated clip, so it’s incredible what’s possible. There’s a popular quote going around: ‘You won’t be replaced by AI, but you might be replaced by someone using it.’ The good news? It’s never too late to start learning. I’m always happy to help neighbors figure out where AI might fit into their work and life, no jargon, no pressure, just clarity.

FORTY AND FABULOUS

FOUR DECADES AGO, Shala Powell opened the doors of Shala on Millburn Avenue with a single mission to treat every customer like family. 40 years, countless ribbon-wrapped gifts and one lively anniversary bash later, the shop still radiates that same easy warmth. “The key to our success has always been the relationships we’ve built,” Powell shares. “We know our customers’ birthdays, and we’ve watched their children and even their grandchildren grow up.”

That family feeling is paired with a talent for reinvention. “We’re constantly evolving—always bringing in fresh, unique items that you won’t find in bigbox stores,” she says. Originally a haven for high-end home decor and furniture, Shala shifted gears as lifestyles and living rooms changed. “When I first opened, we focused primarily on home decor, furniture and gifts—because that’s what people were buying,” Powell recalls. “People began shopping at places like HomeGoods and IKEA—so we shifted, too.” Today, Shala is an eclectic treasure chest of women’s clothing, jewelry, baby clothes and whimsical gifts—much of it, as she notes, “one-of-a-kind, often European or American-made, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

Shala might be the shining jewel, but it’s the Powell crew that gives it its sparkle. “Every one of my daughters has pitched in at the shop at some point,” she says. “Vicky has been my right hand since graduating college and is an integral part of Shala today. It’s been a family effort, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The shop has grown with the MillburnShort Hills community and is proud to still be an active, vocal and supportive part of it. As confetti from the 40thanniversary celebration settles, Powell shares, “Small businesses like mine

are the backbone of towns like Millburn—we support your kids, your schools, your local teams. I remember moms giving me $10 or $20 to keep behind the counter in case their kids needed a bite to eat or a place to call home before cell phones. That’s what we do. We’re more than just shops—we’re part of your village.”

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Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@millburn andshorthills.com.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VICKI POWELL