Salt & Sky Wellness blends advanced aesthetic treatments with whole-body wellness, focusing on both outer beauty and inner balance. Services often combine medical-grade skincare, natural therapies, and lifestyle support to rejuvenate the skin, restore vitality, and promote overall health. The goal is not just to enhance appearance, but to nurture mind, body, and spirit for long-lasting, radiant results.
dDEAR READERS, There’s something uniquely Ridgewood about blending tradition with progress. Whether it’s restoring a historic home, engaging in civic life, or launching a wellness business with a modern twist, our community knows how to honor the past while embracing the future.
We begin with some insights from interior designer Diane Durocher, who shares her expert advice on updating vintage homes without losing their soul. Diane walks us through how thoughtful design and renovation can honor original craftsmanship while seamlessly introducing modern comfort. It’s a mustread for anyone who lives in—or dreams
of restoring—one of Ridgewood’s classic homes.
We also shine a spotlight on Ridgewood’s League of Women Voters, a local chapter of a national organization that has been championing informed civic engagement for over a century. Learn how this nonpartisan group is encouraging voter participation, advocating on key issues, and keeping our community connected and informed.
In the spirit of renewal, we’re excited to introduce Salt & Sky, one of Ridgewood’s newest medispas. Owner and founder Linda Agarwal brings her clinical medical background into play to create a serene and healing space where science meets beauty. Step inside and discover how she’s redefining self-care in the heart of the Village.
And yes, it’s already time to think about school lunches! Dietitian and local favorite Stacey Antine, RD, shares clever and delicious ideas for packing lunches your kids will actually eat—not trade. (Hint: it’s all about variety, color, and just a little fun.)
As summer winds down, this issue is filled with ideas, inspiration, and fresh perspectives to carry with you into the season ahead. Here’s to thoughtful updates, active engagement, and small joys—new and old—that make life in Ridgewood so rich.
Warmly,
Kris Pepper Editor
Ridgewood MAGAZINE
Publisher Karen Stires
Editor
Kris Pepper
Writers
Stacey Antine, RD
Rebecca Bleich
Kris Pepper
Lorri Steinbacher
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Elaine Paoloni Quilici
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
Ridgewood Magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Ridgewood, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained here in do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY MARJORIE RAGGO
Celebrate Fall with these September Events
The leaves are turning, and fall is swiftly approaching. It’s the perfect time for a little nostalgia and family-friendly fun!
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
From an exclusive exhibit at the School House Museum to outdoor art exhibits and festivals, the Village rustles up a wealth of wonderful, engaging opportunities.
“ECHOES OF CHILDHOOD - 200 YEARS OF BEING YOUNG IN AMERICA” EXHIBIT AT SCHOOL HOUSE MUSEUM
When: Saturdays and Sundays 1 to 3 p.m.
Where: School House Museum; 650 East Glen Ave., Ridgewood, New Jersey
Registration required: Students Free, Adults $10
Escape the modern world to explore a fascinating exhibit that showcases the evolving nature of childhood in the United States. Curated by Anthony Cavo and presented by the Ridgewood Historical Society and Schoolhouse Museum, this experience allows you to witness the transformation of a child through the centuries. Throughout the exhibit are displays of play, appearance, education, and cultural and social norms, all defined through the lens of history. Learn about the joys and trials of growing up in America from the late 18th century to the mid-20th century.
For more information, visit https:// ridgewoodhistoricalsociety.org/.
ART IN THE PARK
When: Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, Ridgewood, New Jersey
Take a leisurely walk through the Village, touring the picturesque event “Art in the Park.” Join the Ridgewood Guild for its fine art fair, offering individuals a chance to view fine art. All are welcome to spend the afternoon engaging with the art.
For more information, visit https://ridgewoodguild.com/.
PERPETUAL EUCHARISTIC ADORATION ANNUAL BARBECUE
When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, 3 p.m.
Where: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, One Passaic Street, Ridgewood, New Jersey
Join The Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration Chapel for their Annual Barbecue. This event is for the whole family to enjoy the afternoon outdoors engaging with the community. Everyone is welcome to join and participate in the event.
For more information, contact Cynthia at 551-574-1063 or cynthiabtorres@ yahoo.com.
MOVEABLE STREET FOOD FESTIVAL
When: Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025; noon to 6:00 p.m.
Where: North Broad Street (from East Ridgewood Avenue across to Franklin Avenue), Ridgewood, New Jersey.
Gather up the family for the first “Best of Ridgewood” and “Business Community Event” brought to you by the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. Experience over 20 different food businesses from around the town. All are welcome to come and enjoy the flavors of Ridgewood.
For more information, visit https:// ridgewoodchamber.com/
CONCERT: FLOYD’S ROW “FOLK CLASSIC COLLECTIVE” WITH SINGER-SONGWRITER CHRIS MOYSE
When: Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025; 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Ridgewood Public Library, 125 North Maple Ave., Ridgewood, New Jersey
Get ready to experience Folk Collective, Floyds Row, and Chris Moyse in an exclusive concert at the Ridgewood Library. Get lost in the music and take part in the indoor concert that will give you a new understanding of folk music. Experience the unique style of music from Floyd’s Row as they explore the connections among early classical, folk, newgrass, and world genres. No is registration required for the concert.
For more information visit https://ridgewoodlibrary.org/.
THOMAS A. EDISON IN WEST ORANGE: HIS LIFE AND TIMES
When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025; 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Ridgewood Public Library, 125 North Maple Ave., Ridgewood, New Jersey
Step back in time to the home and laboratory of Thomas A. Edison in West Orange, New Jersey, with guest speaker Alan Bernstein. Join the Ridgewood Library in learning about some of Edison’s patents, including motion pictures, batteries, sound recording, an electric car, and everyday appliances that are still used today. Take an exclusive virtual tour of the Edison laboratory and his home in the West Orange Llewellyn Park community. Be sure to register for the event to experience this special opportunity.
For more information or to register, visit https://ridgewoodlibrary.org/.
Rebecca Bleich is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in journalism and writing.
Smart Lunches for Sharp Minds
Check out our parents’ guide to back-to-school lunches. Here are fun and healthy ideas to help your kids stay strong, focused, and full of energy all day long.
BY STACEY ANTINE, MS, RDN
WHAT THE KIDS REALLY WANT (AND WHAT’S MISSING)
This summer, I polled our campers at HealthBarn about their lunch preferences. Surprisingly (and delightfully!), most kids said they prefer homemade lunches over hot lunches at school. Favorites included the classics: turkey or ham and cheese sandwiches and peanut butter and jelly. But here’s the catch: Most of these lunches were missing key food groups—especially fruits, vegetables, and dairy. So how do we fix that without turning lunch into a battle?
EASY A+ LUNCHBOX UPGRADES:
Here are a few simple tweaks that can turn a good lunch into a great one:
• Dip & Crunch Veggie Sticks: Pack a handful of celery, carrots, cucumber, or red pepper strips with hummus, yogurt dip, or a nut butter. These are fun to crunch and easy to love.
• Caprese Skewers (a Kid Favorite!): Grab a few toothpicks and layer cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. It’s a DIY salad on a stick—
cute, tasty, and packed with nutrients.
• Don’t Forget the Fruit: Apple or pear slices, grapes, or clementine wedges are quick wins and easy to pack. Store in a small container with plain or vanilla yogurt for dipping to add calcium and protein.
• Dairy Dose: Cheese sticks, yogurt, or even a homemade smoothie in a thermos can round out the meal and help maintain steady energy levels.
LUNCHBOX LOVE: A PERSONAL NOTE FROM MY DAD
When I was a kid, my dad made lunch for me and my sisters. He packed everything with precision and care—each bite felt special. But what made it extra magical? The notes. He’d tuck in little messages: “Ace that test!” or “We love you!” My friends always wanted to read what he wrote. Looking back, those notes were just as nourishing as the food itself.
Don’t underestimate the power of a kind word. A short message in your child’s lunchbox can turn a regular day into something really meaningful.
Lunchbox Checklist for Parents
k Protein (turkey, hard-boiled egg, nut butter, hummus)
k Whole grain (whole wheat wrap or bread, seed crackers, brown rice)
k Fruit or veggie (fresh, skewered, or dipped)
k Dairy (cheese, yogurt, smoothie)
k Love note (yes, it counts!)
Learn more at www.healthbarnusa.com!
Stacey Antine, MS, RDN, is the founder of Ridgewood’s HealthBarn USA and author of “Appetite for Life.” She is a national expert in family nutrition and has appeared on the Rachael Ray Show, CNN, PBS-TV, and hundreds of broadcast, print, and social channels.
The ‘Ride to Independance’ Podcast dives into the real-life challenges of older adults. Trish speaks with professionals about dementia, staying fit, lifestyle, and being sexually active.
“Once a month, I have a bonus episode. I sit down with our featured Couple/ Family of the Month to peel back the layers behind the smiling photos.”
– Trish Manzo
Listen on Apple & Spotify on
& Thursdays or watch the full video on Youtube. Youtube.com/@ridetoindependencepodcast BONUS EPISODE ON WEDNESDAYS
Old Bones, New Soul
Interior designer Diane Durocher breathes new life into Ridgewood’s classic homes.
BY KRIS PEPPER
FFROM AN EARLY age, Diane Durocher enjoyed spending weekends browsing antique shops and poring through design magazines. Her memories of Thanksgiving dinners at an aunt’s home cemented her love for interior design.
“From the matching, tie-back, pinched pleat panels to the antique chandelier, and from the crackling fire to the impeccably set table, the perfect ambiance seemed to make the meal taste even more delicious,” she recalls. “That was when I realized that a welldesigned home is not just a lovely backdrop; it also influences how we live our lives.”
Diane established her interior design firm 30 years ago after graduating from Berkeley College’s interior design program while raising three small children—living with the regret of not fulfilling her lifelong dream was not an option!
“This is the mindset I’ve taught my children,” says Diane. “Have a career
that you love, because what you do for a living is so much of who you are. It’s how we spend the majority of our waking hours.”
Today, Diane Durocher is known not just for her signature elegant-yetlivable aesthetic, but also for her deep understanding of the architectural nuances and charm of older homes— particularly those found in Ridgewood. Her expertise lies in thoughtfully updating historic residences to meet the needs of modern living while honoring their original character. Whether it’s reimagining a dated kitchen, preserving period woodwork, or enhancing natural light, Diane brings both technical skill and intuitive design vision to every project. In the following Q&A, she shares her insights on the challenges and rewards of renovating older homes and offers expert advice for homeowners looking to refresh their spaces without sacrificing history or soul.
How would you describe your design style, and how does it evolve when working within the framework of an older property?
A home’s architecture should always be considered when designing our clients’ home interiors. Our designs are very eclectic, traditional with a twist. I have always loved art and antiques. I am a firm believer in reupholster, refinish, and repurpose whenever possible, and incorporating my clients’ time-loved pieces into their designs—providing personalization with a fresh perspective!
Tell us about the interior design photos in this article. Young newlyweds purchased this older Tudor. They requested a traditionally
designed home, incorporating a few time-loved pieces with a fresh and youthful palette.
When approaching the redesign of an older home, what’s the first step in your process?
I always ask what we will be working with (furniture, art, rugs, accessories), as it establishes the palette and style. If our clients do not have any pieces to incorporate into the new design (which is rare), I will ask them for visuals and palette specifics.
How do you balance preserving the original charm of a home while making it functional for modern living?
With a mindful and purposeful approach—our clients’ budgets and their goals are always at the forefront.
What are some common challenges you encounter in older homes (e.g., outdated layouts, electrical, plumbing), and how do you address them?
All of the above! We address them carefully and with expert assistance. Proper lighting is key to the functionality of a room. If a room is not well lit, it will most likely not be used. I’m fortunate to be married to a contractor. He’s my phone-a-friend, and I always refer to him when I have a question regarding the built environment.
How involved are your clients in the design decisions when renovating an older property?
It is their home, but we provide the guidance. As design professionals, it is our job to listen to what our clients’ goals are—not only meeting their expectations but hopefully exceeding them. The design process is personal. We prepare them for the disruption as best we can. This is especially important when designing kitchens and bathrooms.
Have you ever had a client who wanted to completely modernize a historic home? How did you approach that conversation? I’d like to call it respectful
modernization. Consideration of the home’s age and style is so important. Trim work, kitchens, bathrooms, and built-ins should reflect the home’s style. How you fill the house with non-permanent decor is entirely up to the individual. However, when you purchase an older home, you become a steward, and you should respectfully update and renovate with the intent to preserve the architectural style.
Are there any current design trends that work well in older homes? Integrating modern luxury that is stylistically compatible with the home. Antique and brushed gold finishes have made a comeback in hardware, lighting, and accessories.
Have you ever uncovered something unexpected during a project?
We had a client whose old Tudor had undergone previous renovations; however, it lacked a first-floor powder room. This home’s large formal foyer had a closet that we were to transform into a small powder room.
What advice would you give to homeowners considering renovating an older property? Be prepared for the unknown!
For more information on Durocher’s designs, visit her website at: www.dianedurocherinteriors.com.
Championing Democracy
Meet the League of Women Voters of Ridgewood, an inspiring group dedicated to civic advocacy.
BY KRIS PEPPER
SSINCE ITS INCEPTION in 1920, the League of Women Voters (LWV) has played a pivotal role in empowering voters and defending democracy.
Born out of the suffrage movement following the ratification of the 19th Amendment, the League was established to ensure that women— and eventually all citizens—would not only have the right to vote but also the information and tools necessary to cast an informed ballot. Over a century later, the League’s mission remains steadfast: to encourage the informed and active participation of citizens in government, increase understanding of public policy issues, and influence policy through
education and advocacy.
The League is a strictly nonpartisan political organization that never endorses parties or candidates. It does, however, study issues and often forms positions on them. Locally, the League of Women Voters of Ridgewood is an active chapter with approximately 100 members, dedicated to engaging residents in civic life. The group organizes voter registration drives, attends town meetings, lobbies state and local officials on LWV positions, and hosts candidate forums to ensure voters have access to nonpartisan information. It works with both state and national Leagues of Women Voters on common studies and issues.
LEADING THE LOCAL EFFORT
Anne Burton Walsh currently serves as President of the Ridgewood League for the 2025 to 2026 term, having previously served in multiple leadership roles. An attorney with a commercial litigation firm in New York and New Jersey, Walsh is passionate about civic engagement and transparency in government.
The League’s nonpartisan nature allows it to serve as a reliable moderator of candidate forums and an unbiased source of election information. That neutrality is key to their credibility and success.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN RIDGEWOOD
The League provides tangible services that benefit the Village of Ridgewood and its residents. By organizing candidate debates, distributing election materials, and offering trusted resources like Vote411.org, the League helps ensure that voters are informed when they head to the polls.
“Locally, there will be an open seat on the Board of Education, and if there is more than one candidate for that seat, the LWV Ridgewood will host and moderate a debate of those candidates,” says Walsh. “We will also be registering voters at weekend events in town and reminding people to vote. We hope that the residents of Ridgewood know that the League is a trusted source of information about voting and elections.”
Voter information and registration at the Ridgewood Oktoberfest.
HOW TO JOIN
Joining the Ridgewood League is simple. Membership is open to anyone age 16 or older—regardless of gender or citizenship status. As of February 2025, all memberships are handled by the national League. The dues model is now flexible: While the suggested donation is $75 per year, individuals can pay any amount above the $20 minimum.
To join, visit lwvridgewoodnj.org.
A great day at Bergen Community College registering new voters.
IMPACT OF THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS
Along with Walsh, the Ridgewood League’s board includes a dedicated group of volunteers:
• 1st Vice President: Joyce Sharkey
• 2nd Vice President: Lynn Benson
• Secretary: Ann Melone
• Treasurer: Janet Anderson
• Voters Service Chair: Lauren Anderson
• Directors: Dorothy Barthold, Chantal Cannon, Robyn Davis, Jen Friedman, Carolyn Jacoby, Mary Krugman, Deborah Lee, Laura McKenna, and Kumiko Suzuki
• Head of Nominating Committee: Gail Glorisi (non-director)
ENGAGING ON MULTIPLE FRONTS
The Ridgewood chapter actively engages with local, state, and national issues.
“Increasing voter participation is always top of mind,” Walsh says. “We’re also looking
at transparency in government, educationrelated concerns, and environmental issues like the protection of our tree canopy.”
Specific local concerns currently include:
• Hosting a Board of Education candidate forum (depending on how many candidates run)
• Gun violence awareness and prevention
• Supporting alternatives to four-year colleges for students
• Promoting mental health in schools
• Advocating for enhanced Gifted & Talented programs at the elementary level
At the state level, the League of Women Voters of New Jersey (LWVNJ) has been addressing pressing issues, including protecting civil rights and opposing authoritarian policies. Recently, the organization conducted a study on reparations for the descendants of enslaved people. Nationally, the League of Women Voters of the United States
(LWVUS) is conducting a study on ethical concerns in the federal judiciary and continues to focus on issues affecting our democracy.
Although the Ridgewood chapter doesn’t frequently host fundraising events, members participate in LWVNJ’s annual “Call-a-thon,” which helps fund state-level advocacy efforts.
BEYOND VOTING: A BROADER ADVOCACY MISSION
While voter education remains the League’s cornerstone, the organization takes principled stances on numerous public policy issues. These include:
THESE BOOKS feature stories of transformation with people who pivot, start over, or walk away. Whether they’re leaving behind grief, boredom, or a messy past, these protagonists remind us that turning the page is always an option.
FICTION
THE LATECOMER
by Jean Hanff Korelitz
A smart, layered family drama about a trio of siblings conceived through IVF, and the fourth embryo—the titular “latecomer”—who upends the family when she finally arrives. It’s about breaking cycles and reclaiming identity.
REAL AMERICANS
by Rachel Khong
Spanning generations and continents, this novel explores inheritance, belonging, and the quiet power of choosing your own path—especially when the one laid before you no longer fits.
THE RACHEL INCIDENT
by Caroline O’Donoghue
Set in Cork during the recession years, this novel is part coming-of-age, part love triangle, part workplace chaos. It’s
BY LORRI STEINBACHER
about messy twenties energy, longing, and learning to own your story.
THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY
by Rachel Joyce
When Harold walks across England on a whim, the journey becomes a quiet reckoning with his past—and a path to something like redemption.
DREAM STATE
by Eric Puchner
Dream State opens with a doomed wedding that triggers a lifelong love triangle. It explores how small choices—about love, friendship, family, and place—make us who we are.
MEMOIRS
CRYING IN H MART
by Michelle Zauner
Grief, identity, music, and food— Zauner beautifully captures the messy process of becoming yourself after losing the person who knew you best.
OLD IN ART SCHOOL
by Nell Irvin Painter
“Old in Art School” captures the exhilarating, vulnerable pursuit of reinvention through the eyes of a
woman daring to begin again—in her 60s, at art school.
WILD GAME: MY MOTHER, HER LOVER, AND ME by Adrienne Brodeur
This memoir recounts a mother’s secret affair—and the daughter caught in the middle. It’s a portrait of growing up, breaking away, and learning how to stop living someone else’s story.
YOU COULD MAKE THIS PLACE BEAUTIFUL
by Maggie Smith
A lyrical portrait of a woman rebuilding after divorce—and redefining what it means to be whole on your own terms.
BETWEEN TWO KINGDOMS
by Suleika Jaouad
After surviving leukemia in her twenties, Jaouad hits the road to reconnect with others and with herself. It’s a travelogue, a reckoning, and a love letter to possibility.
Lorri Steinbacher is the Director of the Ridgewood Public Library and facilitator of the Book Circle and Cover 2 Cover book groups at the library.
A Novel Idea: Ridgewood’s Little Libraries
Our small-but-mighty Ridgewood team has canvassed the area and found the little libraries listed below. Let us know if we’ve missed one!
BY KRIS PEPPER
SCATTERED THROUGHOUT
Ridgewood’s neighborhoods are Little Free Libraries—those small, weatherproof book-sharing boxes—that quietly foster a love of reading and community connection.
These miniature libraries operate on a simple principle: take a book, leave a book. Residents of all ages can borrow novels, children’s stories, memoirs, or cookbooks— no library card required.
Each book box has its own personality, often colorfully decorated and lovingly maintained by local stewards. Some are nestled near elementary schools or playgrounds, and others are tucked in front yards or even near the Ridgewood train station. They invite passersby to pause, browse, and perhaps discover a new favorite author.
For many, it’s more than just a place to exchange books—it’s a symbol of generosity and shared learning.
Whether it’s a young child discovering their first picture book or an adult finding a longlost classic, these book-sharing boxes spark small moments of joy. In a digital age, they provide a tactile reminder of the simple pleasure of flipping pages—and the power of community through shared stories.
CHECK OUT
THESE LOCATIONS!
Clockwise from top:
• South Monroe across from West Side Presbyterian Church Playground at Passaic and Broad
• Carolina Street
• Ridgewood Train Station
• Ridgewood YMCA
• Playground at Passaic and Broad
Want to host your own little library? Visit littlefreelibrary.org!
The Art of Wellness at Salt & Sky
Founded by two seasoned healthcare professionals, Salt & Sky brings regenerative aesthetics and personalized wellness to Ridgewood in a calming, boutique setting designed to nourish both body and spirit.
BY KRIS PEPPER
INTERVIEW WITH LINDA AGARWAL
SALT & SKY FOUNDER LINDA AGARWAL, CRNA, APRN, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rhode Island in 1996. She later pursued a graduate degree in Biology/Anesthesia and began her career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in 2005, providing anesthesia in various settings— from plastic surgery offices to large academic medical centers and community hospitals.
Her husband, Dr. Saurabh Agarwal, attended Boston University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Urology at Brown University in 2004. He has practiced urology at Valley Hospital and throughout this community since 2007. His passion drives Salt and Sky’s wellness offerings, including weight loss, IV therapy, and hormone therapy.
“We’ve always had a shared interest in wellness and positivity,” Linda says. “While 2020 gave many tragedies, there were also opportunities. For us, it was a time to reflect on our
goals. While we love our careers in healthcare, we saw this as an opportunity to explore options outside of the hospital setting, which was a very stressful place at the time. I completed my aesthetics training five years ago and found it to be a very rewarding and natural segue from my procedure-based skills as a CRNA, while being able to still provide care for patients in a happier moment of their lives.”
We spoke with Linda about the practice and her approach to wellness and beauty.
What are your most popular services?
We prioritize regenerative therapies as our first-line treatment, focusing on helping clients optimize their own collagen production. One of our most popular offerings is Ultherapy Prime, which stimulates collagen production in a non-invasive approach. We also provide PRP microneedling facials and injections, which, when strategically placed, can stimulate collagen production as well. Of course, we also offer Botox, traditional fillers, chemical peels, and IV therapy.
What inspired you to open Salt & Sky?
I love how medical aesthetics maximizes my clinical training and incorporates an artistic approach to help patients feel their best. I believe my skill set has positioned me perfectly to provide excellent results while still connecting with people on a very human level.
Why was Ridgewood the right place for Salt & Sky?
Ridgewood is a wonderful community that uniquely supports small businesses. We’ve lived and practiced here for over 18 years and feel very connected to the area. Our location— above Bar Method and Artists & Architects Salon, and next to Mud Spinners pottery studio—is tucked away on a quiet second floor. It’s an eclectic, charming space where we can offer our clients both convenience and calm.
What sets a medical spa apart from a regular wellness spa?
As a medical spa, we have both advanced practice providers and experienced non-medical staff, which allows us to offer a much broader range of services. For instance, if a client is feeling fatigued, we can provide IV therapy enhanced with vitamins—
either as a stand-alone treatment or paired with a relaxing facial. We also carry medical-grade skincare products backed by clinical research, so we can prescribe personalized regimens that amplify the results of in-office treatments.
How does your practice environment promote relaxation as well as results?
At Salt & Sky, we aim to help clients feel amazing from the inside out. We’ve created a space that’s not only beautiful but rooted in positivity. We believe in paying it forward and that even one uplifting interaction can brighten someone’s day. That belief helps us start meaningful conversations about each client’s individual perception of beauty. Our mission is to build long-term relationships with our patients to help them achieve results that reflect and enhance their own natural beauty.
Opposite page, left: Linda Agarwal. Right: Saurabh Agarwal and Linda Agarwal, owners of Salt & Sky Wellness, use ultrasound guided techniques. This page, from left to right: Gosia Narula, master aesthetician; Linda Agarwal CRNA, APRN, owner Salt & Sky Wellness; Michelle Romagnoli DNP, APRN; Gia Youmans, patient care coordinator.
What’s the best way to begin a comprehensive skincare plan?
We offer every new client a complimentary consultation with both an advanced practice provider and a medical aesthetician. Together, we create customized short- and long-term plans that align with the client’s goals and budget. We also offer membership options that provide discounted services and products. For wellness clients, consultations may include lab work prior to treatment as part of a broader medical treatment plan.
Which treatment offers the most dramatic rejuvenation?
In keeping with our philosophy of holistic skincare, we always encourage natural aesthetic treatments first when appropriate. For example, Ultherapy Prime delivers outstanding results with no downtime.
That said, we understand that ‘rejuvenation’ means something different to everyone. For some, it’s a relaxing facial with a shoulder massage and red-light therapy. For others, it’s achieving a more defined jawline or
Left: Agarwal preparing a fibrin based filler. Above: Agarwal with an advanced ultrasound delivery device Ultherapy Prime used for noninvasive stimulation of collagen and elastin.
softening crow’s feet. Needs can change from day to day, and we pride ourselves on being a small but mighty team that can offer everyone what they need!
Can clients combine services in one visit? Absolutely. Combining services is a great way to maximize time and streamline self-care. We often pair treatments such as facials with IV therapy or aesthetic services. During the initial consultation, we work with clients to design a personalized care plan that suits their needs and preferences.
We’re so excited to support Ridgewood Magazine and to serve this amazing community. We feel that our love for health and wellness, combined with our mission to provide safe, effective, and holistic care through personalized treatment plans, allows us to know our clients personally as well as professionally, and in this way, we can foster a place of true relaxation and meaningful treatments.
For more information, visit www.saltskywellness.com.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
6:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M. Edgewood Country Club River Vale, NJ
SUNSHINE, SOIL, and little hands at work—the HealthBarn organic garden is where nature and nutrition come to life in the heart of Ridgewood’s Irene Habernickel Family Park.
Have a great image for Photo Op?
Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@ridgewoodmag.com
PHOTO OP
The 2025 Volvo XC60
Small Patients Big Care
Pediatric Specialty Care
You want the very best for your child. So do we. That’s why Valley’s pediatric specialists deliver experienced care, tailored to the needs of young patients. Our team takes the time to understand their patients’ concerns, answer questions, and reassure parents in a child-friendly environment.
Our team of pediatric experts specializes in:
Developmental Pediatrics
Endocrinology*
Food Allergy*
Gastroenterology & Nutrition*
Pediatric Gynecology*
Pediatric Surgery*
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Pulmonology*
Sleep Medicine*
Weight Management
* In alliance with Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital
