Home + Design

A Love for Thrift and Sustainability

Once & Again Consignment: Celebrating the Value of Secondhand Goods Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Once & Again Consignment Gina Falco has transformed Once & Again Consignment into a local hub for secondhand furniture, clothing, and accessories, blending her passion for interior design with her love for sustainable shopping. Taking over the business over 10 years ago, Falco brought her expertise in design to curate a shop that’s both stylish and eco-conscious. “I have an interior...

Food + Beverage

A Little Love, a Lot of Buttercream

Inside Blue Sheep Bake Shop Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Michael Lago Where life’s sweetest moments come to life, Blue Sheep Bake Shop is more than a bakery—it’s a love story told in buttercream and ganache. Founded by Karin Giamella, the self-proclaimed “Director of Dessert Dreams,” this charming haven has grown from humble beginnings into a community favorite, blending artistic passion with delectable flavors. Giamella’s journey, sparked by a single birthday cake for her son...

Shopping

Timeless Treasures

Memorialize Love with Simms Jewelers Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Simms Jewelers At Simms Jewelers in Bedminster, crafting custom jewelry is more than just creating a piece; it’s about preserving memories and telling stories through timeless designs. Sarah Sockolof, the passionate steward of this family-owned business, shares how Simms Jewelers transforms heirloom pieces and client visions into wearable works of art. From Vision to Reality The custom jewelry process at Simms...

Food + Beverage

Berry Sweet Love

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Trifle Article by Chloe Anderson Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, and what better way to show someone you care than with a dessert that’s as sweet as they are? This Berry Sweet Love Trifle is a delightful mix of juicy berries, fluffy cream, and soft sponge cake—perfect for sharing with your special someone or treating yourself! Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced 1 pound fresh raspberries 1 package of vanilla sponge cake (or...

Life + Culture

Honoring Heroes

Blue Mass Celebrated at Saint James Church in Basking Ridge, NJ Article and Photography by John Falcone On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Saint James School in Bernards Township held its annual Blue Mass to honor and pray for local police officers from the township and surrounding areas. The event brought together students, teachers, staff, administrators, parents, police department representatives, and relatives of students who serve in law enforcement. The Mass was celebrated by Reverend...

Life + Culture

Carly's Current Chapter

Local blogger blends life, style, and a love for small-town connections. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Rich Silivanch Carly Heitlinger-Riordan has built a vibrant platform of inspiration through her blog, CARLY . What began in 2008 as a personal outlet during her freshman year at Georgetown University has blossomed into a trusted lifestyle resource for women navigating the many stages of life. From parenting tips to style advice, Riordan uses her blog and social media platforms...

Fitness

Get Your Freak On

How One Local Couple Turned a Passion for Movement into a Thriving Business Article by Patti Zielinski | Photography by Liz Polo - My Havana Photography “I didn’t have a bike. I didn’t know how to swim. I ran, but just 5Ks,” Mo Wadhwani says. “But when I saw those Ironman athletes, I thought,  I need this in my life. ” In 2013, while house-hunting in Austin, Texas, Noor and Mo Wadhwani experienced a serendipitous moment that would shape their future. Their visit coincided with the Half...

Food + Beverage

Berry Bliss Açaí Bowl

A Tropical Delight! Article by Chloe Anderson As we step into a new year, there’s no better time to embrace health and wellness. Açaí bowls are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients to kickstart your day or refuel after a workout. Bursting with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, this vibrant treat brings together wholesome ingredients to support your goals for a balanced lifestyle. Check out this Berry Bliss Açaí Bowl.  Ingredients: For the Açaí Base: - 2 packets...

Finance + Legal Services

Take Control of Your Financial Health

Ready to level up your finances? Peter Hoglund, dishes out smart strategies for tackling taxes, inflation, and setting goals that stick. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Wealth Enhancement Group Peter Hoglund, AIF®, CFP®, a Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor at Wealth Enhancement Group in Warren has extensive experience helping clients navigate their financial journeys. In this Q&A, he shares how individuals can prioritize financial wellness and prepare for the challenges...

Local Services

Sparkle Floors and Carpet

Planting for a Greener Future Article by Ava Caldwell | Photography by Sparkle Floors and Carpet This fall, Sparkle Floors and Carpet partnered with the NJ Tree Foundation to plant trees at Johnson Park in Gloucester City. These trees have the potential to grow up to 80 feet tall. Founded with a passion for craftsmanship and environmental stewardship, Sparkle Floors and Carpet has built a reputation for quality hardwood flooring and a strong commitment to sustainability. The company believes...