Health + Wellness

Mental Health Awareness with Arbor

Grace Montes and Cynthia Vanadium help with evidence-based methods and humor. Article by Carly Okyle | Photography by Craig Smith The season of Spring has arrived, bringing with it a sense of hope, growth, renewal and positivity. It is also a time when we tend to focus on our own personal wellness. In the month of May, people across the nation come together to raise awareness for Mental Health, aiming to reduce the stigmas and discrimination surrounding this illness and encourage those in need...

April 2024

Beauty

Recharge Your Body and Soul

Empowering Women to Feel Confident and Beautiful Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Chelsea Doyle While cosmetologist Lauren Cruz originally set out to be a hair stylist, she soon changed her mind. “I was always into beauty, hair and makeup, so I wanted to learn more,” she says. “I went to school for hair and hated it.” It was when she started working at a waxing center that she found her true passion. “I really enjoyed it and stayed there for about seven years. I then decided I wanted...

April 2024

Professional Services

Sparking Success

The Inspiring Journey of a Female Entrepreneur Following Her Passion Article by Elle Bridge | Photography by Liz Polo As a woman business owner, Tiffany Slowinski knows success comes from constantly evolving. Over her journey from college student to young earner to motherhood to successful entrepreneur, she has forged new identities and reinvented herself many times over. Recently, as she embarked on her latest venture—Team Spark Advisors, which employs data analytics to help businesses hire...

April 2024

Beauty

Self-Care for Superwomen

Prioritize Your Well-Being and Thrive! Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Joan Marie Photography Life is busy, and sometimes we just have to slow down and make time for ourselves. Imagine settling in for an amazing massage, or having your skin pampered with a refreshing facial. When you visit Spavia Clark Commons, you’re able to fulfill this desire.  “I love the vibe of this being like a mini-vacation,” says Ryan Manville, a franchisee, along with his wife, Jennifer, of Spavia Day Spa...

April 2024

Event Planning + Services

Scotch Plains City Lifestyle Launch Party

It was a night to remember, the start of something great! Article by Stephanie Padula | Photography by Craig Smith Greeted with flutes of champagne and welcoming neighbors, the Shackamaxon County Club was the place to be on January 18th, celebrating the launch of Scotch Plains’ own City Lifestyle Magazine. A magazine that celebrates all things local; events, businesses and community. While outside was covered in snow, inside, the room buzzed with excitement, while local business owners such...

April 2024

Life + Culture

Inspiration and Empowerment

Views from Local Business Owners Article and Photography by 1. Lisa Mohn - Apple Blossom Flower Shop The woman who inspired me most is my Mother. She is the most dedicated and hard-working person I have ever seen. She inspired my work ethic.  2. Tiffany Slowinski - Team Spark Advisors An inspiring woman is someone who embodies resilience, compassion, and authenticity. She is not defined by societal standards but instead embraces her unique strengths. She is a trailblazer who leaves a...

April 2024

Finance + Legal Services

Renovations & Equity

Investing in your home equals great returns Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Joan Marie Photography Whether new construction, renovations or additions, investing in one’s home will bring great rewards not only while living there, but also when it comes time to sell.  “We build wealth through equity,” says Jack Bonomo of Bonomo & Sons, Inc. in Clark. “When we do a renovation on a home, it will add more value than what we charge.” Bonomo's current renovations include a full-home...

March 2024

Local Services

The Keys To Your Dreams

Investing in real estate is one smart move Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Joan Marie Photography When it comes to investing in real estate, there are quite a few options. So, let’s break it down and see what might work best for those thinking about putting their money into the market.    Family Home When looking to buy a family home, you want it to be a place that you can enjoy for many years, whether by yourself or while raising a family. But, you also want to make sure it’s a...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

Building Wealth While Building Community

When it comes to finances, invest in an expert Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Craig Smith With all the investment opportunities available, most people find choosing where to put their money overwhelming. There are so many variables to take into account, including age, lifestyle and goals. Fortunately, there are experts who can assist with making these decisions. “Before we pick any type of investment or any type of a plan going forward, we sit down with our clients to understand...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

A Healthy Investment

Dr. Robert V. Scalera, Jr. explains how proper dental health can last a lifetime Article by Carly Okyle | Photography by Craig Smith A lot has changed since Dr. Robert Scalera, Sr. founded Dentalcare Associates at 567 Park Avenue in Scotch Plains 65 years ago. To begin with, his son -- who grew up just two doors down from the practice -- is now the director.  While digital dentistry has improved over the years, it still comes down to the basics. In this case, basic homecare refers to brushing...

March 2024