Life + Culture

Ivy Harrington

Miss New Jersey USA 2025 shows it’s never too late to shine. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Jessielyn Palumbo, Carlos Velez, Anthony M. Gomes When Ivy Harrington was crowned Miss New Jersey USA 2025, she didn’t just claim a title—she affirmed a journey. At 30 years old, Harrington made history as the oldest titleholder the state has ever crowned, and with it, she’s redefining the narrative around beauty, purpose, and perseverance. But for Harrington, the victory is just one...

Style + Beauty

Partying With a Purpose

Building Confidence one Birthday Celebration at a Time Article by Sadie Brown | Photography by Danielle Stio Photography In a cozy venue filled with sparkle, laughter, and the sweet scent of cupcakes, a beautiful kind of magic unfolds. It’s not just the magic of birthday wishes or perfectly curated princess themes — it’s the magic of confidence, sisterhood, and a purpose that runs deeper than glitter and glam. This is the heart of Sugar Plum Parties, a vibrant, independently owned business led...

Local Services

Collective Giving. Real Local Impact.

Impact100 Garden State Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Liz Polo - My Havana Photography What happens when hundreds of women come together with a shared mission to give back? At Impact100 Garden State, the answer is clear: meaningful change—driven by compassion, collaboration, and collective purpose. Part philanthropic force, part leadership incubator, this dynamic nonprofit is redefining what it means to give back. By bringing women together to pool their financial resources and...

Home + Design

The Home Refresh You Didn't Know You Needed

Central Jersey Exterior Cleaning Brings Style and Service to the Season Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Michael Lago As fall approaches and families prepare for packed weekends and cozy evenings, Central Jersey Exterior Cleaning is offering a one-stop solution to help homeowners keep their spaces clean, safe and stylish—without lifting a finger. Nick Berezansky, owner of the rebranded Central Jersey Exterior Cleaning, launched the company in 2021 after nearly two decades in the...

Style + Beauty

Healing in Style

Headwear that Honors Strength and Beauty Article by Cara Zamorski, HWC, HN, Breast Cancer Survivor | Photography by Cara Zamorski When a woman begins a journey of healing—whether from chemotherapy or other medical treatments/conditions—hair loss can be one of the most emotionally difficult parts of the process. Headwear, however, can be so much more than just practical. It can be empowering, expressive, and stylish. When it comes to providing more than just a cover-up, the right hat, scarf, or...

Food + Beverage

Garden State Glam

A signature cocktail for our September Style Issue Article and Photography by New Jersey City Lifestyle Refined, layered, and unmistakably New Jersey in its elegance and edge. Concept: Inspired by the rich tapestry of New Jersey's landscapes — from the coastal charm of the Jersey Shore to the sophistication of Bergen and the historic charm of Hunterdon County — this cocktail captures the essence of early fall in the Garden State. It's a drink that marries tradition with modern flair...

Home + Design

Behind the Hidden Doors

How Aurora Transformed Mike Michalowicz’s Basement Into a Bold, Multipurpose Haven Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Liam Waddleton and Deb Mandelbaum, on behalf of Aurora Kitchens and Interiors Entrepreneur, bestselling author, and TV personality Mike Michalowicz has built a career helping others take control of their time, energy, and money. When it came time to renovate his New Jersey home, he turned to Aurora Kitchens and Interiors, a design and remodeling firm known for creating...

Life + Culture

Turning Grief into Purpose

Lindsay Schambach’s Mission at Imagine Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Lindsay Schambach Lindsay Schambach never envisioned a career in grief support. The former Newark teacher and charter school principal thought her life’s purpose was firmly planted in education. But when her husband, Mike Schambach—Montclair State’s head men’s lacrosse coach and a Bridgewater native—passed away from stage four colon cancer in 2018, everything changed. Left widowed at 35 with two young children...

Life + Culture

Paws, Smiles & Star Moments

Highlights from Our 2025 Cover Model Casting Call Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Jackie Korn - Korn Dogs NJ We came. We saw. We wagged! A huge thank-you to everyone who came out to our Bridgewater  2025 Cover Model Casting Call —and especially to all the fabulous pups who showed up ready for their close-up. The energy, joy, and community spirit on display made this one of our most memorable events yet. This year’s casting call was bigger than ever! With so many adorable...

Food + Beverage

Peanut Butter Oat Balls

A Wholesome Snack for Pups and Their Tiny Humans Article by Jane Alzate At Graze Craze of Wyckoff, we absolutely love creating experiences that bring families and their furry companions together. One of our favorite moments during your recent event was seeing kids and pups nibbling happily side by side—whether it was fresh fruits and veggies or our crowd-favorite  peanut butter oat ball treats . These oat balls are not only quick and easy to make, but they’re also wholesome enough for kids ...