Arts + Culture

Meet Lori Polson

From Representing Artists to Becoming One Herself Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Lori Polson For more than 25 years, Lori Polson built a career behind the scenes—connecting world-class portrait artists with collectors and clients. Today, she stepped out from behind the curtain and onto the canvas herself. Polson, a Bergen County local and a longtime art director-turned-portrait consultant, began her career at Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising Worldwide in New York. Yet it was her...

Life + Culture

A Night to Love Local

Celebrate Community, Connection, and Style at JustHaves Studios Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Michael Lago Northern Highlands City Lifestyle was proud to host an unforgettable evening of connection, celebration, and community spirit at our Love Local Party  this February. The event was held at the beautiful JustHaves Studios in Paramus, in honor of our February Love Local issue and cover story featuring Justine Santaniello. The evening brought together local business owners...

Travel

A Bahamian Escape

Travel in Luxury with British Colonial Nassau Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by British Colonial Nassau There’s something magical about stepping off a plane and straight into paradise. The warm Bahamian breeze hits you, the sun is shining, and you realize—yep, this is real life. I was lucky enough to be in the Bahamas on a recent editorial travel trip with a group of fellow writers and editors, invited to experience the newly renovated British Colonial Nassau . With over 100 years...

Travel

The Ultimate Weekend Getaway Right in NJ

My Escape to Pendry Natirar Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Pendry Hotels Sometimes, the perfect escape isn’t far away—it’s just a scenic hour from NYC. Tucked into the rolling hills of Somerset County, New Jersey, Pendry Natirar feels like a world apart. It's where luxury meets nature, and the result is nothing short of magic. If you're craving a weekend that actually feels like a vacation (without the hassle of travel), this hidden gem delivers in every way. Luxury in the...

Life + Culture

Family Comes First

Rachel Fuda on Balancing Motherhood and Reality TV Fame Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Michael Lago, BellaCosa Babies For Rachel Fuda, star of The Real Housewives of New Jersey , fame isn’t the finish line—family is. While millions of Bravo fans know her for her polished style, quick wit, and reality TV presence, Fuda remains firmly grounded in her role at home. “Being a mom is what defines me right now,” she shares. “This is a very temporary little-kid phase of life, and I’m...

Food + Beverage

Branzino for Heroes

Sautéed Lemon Garlic Branzino with Warm Tomato Salad Over Baby Arugula Article and Photography by Metropolitan Seafood Gourmet If you’ve ever had the desire to be bathed in the unfettered sunshine of your family’s sincerest adoration, then buy them a puppy. But if you just want them to love you a little more, make this dish and enjoy the warm embers of their gratitude. It’s that easy. Ingredients 1½ to 2 pounds of Branzino fillet (or use Sea Bass, Flounder, or even Red Snapper) 3...

Food + Beverage

Here’s the Scoop!

One Man’s Ice Cream Dream Come True Article by Hilary Russo | Photography by Hometown Creamery Not everyone can say they own the sweetest spot in town. But if you’re Albert Leggieri of Wayne, New Jersey, you absolutely can. Leggieri and his wife Dana opened Hometown Creamery in September 2021 and never looked back. For Leggieri, this wasn’t just an investment opportunity, it was a passion project that had been living rent-free in his mind for close to two decades.  “I had been thinking about...

Food + Beverage

Whiskey Sour with a Twist

The Perfect Father's Day Cocktail Article by Chloe Anderson Looking to celebrate Father's Day with a special drink? This Whiskey Sour with a Twist is a perfect balance of smooth bourbon, zesty lemon, and just the right amount of sweetness—plus, a frothy touch for that extra flair. Whether you're toasting with dad or enjoying a quiet moment, this cocktail is sure to add some extra joy to your celebration! Ingredients: 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice 1/2...

Home Services

Building Dreams

Magnolia Home Remodeling Group: A Family Affair Built on Craftsmanship and Care Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Magnolia Home Remodeling Group Magnolia Home Remodeling Group (MHRG) has established itself as a leading name in New Jersey’s home remodeling industry, thanks to its dedication to quality craftsmanship and a deep sense of family values. Founded in the mid-90s by Vic Fiore and his brother-in-law Chris Fontana, the company has grown organically, relying on a reputation...

Health + Wellness

My Super Bowl Experience

Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Media X Marketing I’ll admit, I’m not the biggest sports fan out there. But there’s one event a year I just can’t miss—and that’s the Super Bowl! It’s not about the game for me; it’s about the energy, the celebrities, the parties, and the chance to be part of one of the biggest events in the world. So when our publisher, Tiffany Slowinski, and I were invited to attend Super Bowl LV in New Orleans, we didn’t hesitate. We...