Entertainment

A Front Row Look at the Barefoot Country Music Fest

Wildwood, NJ Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by David Surks Garden State City Lifestyle was grateful to have a front-row view on Wildwood’s iconic beach at the 2025 Barefoot Country Music Fest — and it did not disappoint. Held June 19–22, the four-day celebration drew thousands of fans from across the nation to sing, dance and soak in coastal vibes. Headliners included Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flatts and Jordan Davis, with more than 40 additional artists...

Life + Culture

Faith in Action

Immaculate Heart Academy students turn compassion into more than 31,000 service hours Article and Photography by AnneMarie Vaughn Service at Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) is more than a requirement; it is central to the school’s mission. Students regularly put their faith into action by serving the community and ministering to people in need through a wide variety of opportunities. IHA’s Campus Ministry program, led by Emily Ash, Class of 2019, is off to a busy start this year. Ash credits...

Professional Services

Giving Back, One Case at a Time

Seigel Law’s charity fund turns legal success into community support. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Seigel Law At Seigel Law, community service is more than a value — it’s a practice woven into the firm’s foundation. When attorney Jonas Seigel joined the firm, he launched the Seigel Law Charity Fund, pledging to donate a portion of every fee to local charities. The American Bar Association has recognized the fund as a model for other law firms, highlighting its unique approach...

Health + Wellness

Thank Yourself

The Case for Practicing Self-Gratitude Article by Hilary Russo We talk a lot about gratitude. From keeping journals and writing thank-you notes to remembering to count our blessings. And it’s true: study after study has shown that practicing gratitude improves happiness, strengthens resilience, and even has measurable effects on the brain. But here’s the thing: most of us direct gratitude outward. We thank others, the universe, even our morning cup of coffee. Rarely do we stop and say, ...

Style + Beauty

Layers for Every Exit

Versatile Luxury Looks for a New Jersey Thanksgiving Article by Nicholas Xavier Hall | Photography by McQueen, Jimmy Choo, Delia, Max Mara, ZIMMERMANN, Diane Von Furstenberg, Stuart, Guest In Residence As we transition from summer to autumn and the chill sets in, attention turns to the holidays and their inevitable challenges: “What time should I arrive?” “What dish should I bring?” and perhaps the most daunting — “What do I wear?” Thanksgiving often kicks off the season of gatherings, and...

Travel

Quick Escape

W Fort Lauderdale Delivers a Luxe Getaway with a View Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by W Fort Lauderdale If you're craving sun, style, and a serious change of scenery, let me point you straight to W Fort Lauderdale — a sleek, vibrant, and energizing escape that’s just a short flight from home. I recently spent a few days at this oceanfront stunner, and it delivered on every level. Perched right along the city’s iconic beachfront, the 440-room luxury hotel blends nautical design with...

Food + Beverage

Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes

Garden State City Lifestyle Recipe of the Month Article and Photography by Brunch by DeMartino For our November Thankful Issue , we’re especially thankful for these cozy Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes—our favorite recipe of the month from Brunch by DeMartino to share around the table with family and friends. Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes From Brunch by DeMartino in Somerville Serves 8–10 Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 Tbsp granulated sugar 1½ tsp baking powder ...

Travel

Fall in Love With Cape Cod at Ocean Edge Resort

Experience timeless New England charm, coastal luxury, and unforgettable adventures at Cape Cod’s Ocean Edge Resort. Article by Nicholas Hall - Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Writer | Photography by Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club As Patti Page’s classic tune suggests, “If you're fond of sand dunes and salty air…You're sure to fall in love with old Cape Cod.” We can confirm the Cape delivers on all counts — from winding roads to lobster stew, offering something for everyone. If you’re wondering...

Health + Wellness

Spotlight on Care

A Conversation with Dr. Stacy Ugras, Breast Surgical Oncologist Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Stacy Ugras, MD, FACS For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we spoke with Dr. Stacy Ugras, founder of Bergen Breast and Wellness Center, about her path to medicine, patient-first care, and what every woman should be asking her doctor. Q: What inspired you to specialize in breast surgical oncology? I've always been drawn to the biology of cancer and the meaningful relationships that...

Food + Beverage

A Taste of Home

From Brooklyn to Bergen: Chef Fabian’s Culinary Journey Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Chef Fabian Taliercio, Rich Silivanch When you meet Chef Fabian Taliercio, it’s clear you’re talking to someone who isn’t just passionate about food—he’s steeped in it. Raised in Brooklyn, Fabian grew up surrounded by the aromas of his father’s 30-year-old Italian restaurant, where the art of hospitality was as essential as the dishes themselves. “I started cooking when I was about 15,” he...