At MK Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Mark Khaimov provides cutting-edge periodontal care in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Specializing in dental implants, gum health, and jaw support, Dr. Khaimov uses advanced treatments like Teeth-in-a-Day (All-on-4 ®), Pinhole Surgical Technique, Laser Gum Therapy (LANAP ®), and Piezosurgery to address everything from early gum disease to complex tooth loss. Conveniently located in Nutley and Florham Park, we proudly serve Essex and Morris County, offering personalized care with respect and compassion. Discover the difference expert periodontal care can make for your smile. Our Mission & Promise to Patients: “From dental implants and cosmetics to gum disease, our mission is to rejuvenate our patients’ smiles making sure that they return to the quality of life that they deserve.” - Dr. Mark Khaimov.
February - Love Local Issue
I don’t know about you, but this time of year I am always torn. I find myself torn between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday and indulging in all the sweet excuses to enjoy the season.
To do a Valentine’s Day date out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a card or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere a little in between. We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them. And regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we celebrate and highlight what’s to love in our local communities.
While we teeter between the chill of January Winter and the excitement of Spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In your neighborhood and your community.
“Love local” means our local businesses, talent and professionals, those in our communities - but it also means loving what is near. Those under your own roof included. So grab a coffee at your favorite local coffee house and head home for a game night around the fire with the family. Or snag a bottle of wine and some cheese and indulge on a movie night in.
We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages month after month.
Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like. Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before.
If you are looking to grow your business and advertise with us, or have local stories to share, reach out to John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com or call us at 973-9441440. We look forward to seeing you around town!
Happy February!
JOHN MEYER, PUBLISHER & ANA MEYER, CO-PUBLISHER @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS
February 2026
PUBLISHER
John Meyer | john.meyer@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Kelsey Harper
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS
Stephany Aznar, Benjamin Meyer
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Brian Boyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chris Jorda Photography, Carley Storm Branding
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Law With Heart
Building
Where Art Meets Medicine
Patients
A Neapolitan Soul Refined
Chef Maurizio De Rosa blends tradition technique and memory at Vette creating immersive dining experiences rooted in Naples and shaped by the
From Naples to Livingston, Vette Invites You To Dine Inside
A Love Letter To Italian Cuisine
Chef and Sommelier Maurizio De Rosa brings generations of Neapolitan tradition to the table with modern elegance, pristine ingredients, and soulful technique. Handmade pastas, smoked cocktails, and unforgettable desserts unfold course by course, like a story meant to be savored—not rushed.
Discover the Four-Course Tasting Menu ($55), available Monday through Thursday, or indulge in the Seven-Course Tasting Experience and à la carte favorites any day of the week. Pair it all with expertly curated Italian wines and cocktails at the full bar.
Your table in Naples awaits— right here in Livingston. This is more than dinner. This is Vette.
1: Short Hills Wentworth Gallery in person VIP event with artist, musician from Kiss Paul Stanley. 2: Short Hills Wentworth Gallery, artist and musician Kiss Paul Stanley and his art collectors. 3: Short Hills Wentworth Gallery, artist and musician Kiss Paul Stanley and his art collector.
Where Beautiful Hair Is Just the Beginning
We’re proud to spotlight a few of our in-house team members with over 20 years of industry expertise. Whether you’re seeking a transformative haircut, flawless makeup, dimensional color, extensions, or a full glam moment, our stylist’s artistry and intuitive touch make every visit unforgettable. Relax in our chic lounge with a coffee, explore our curated boutique, and indulge in our full menu of services—from Brazilian blowouts and lashes to nails and gift-worthy finds. At GLAZE, it’s not just about looking beautiful—it’s about feeling it, too.
Book your appointment today and let us elevate your everyday!
“I love everything about Glaze!! From the moment I walk through the door everyone is friendly and attentive. Glaze is a beautiful salon and the staff is really talented!!!!! My peaceful place....”
- Michelle
J.
“Highly recommend !! Such a warm and inviting salon, everyone is so friendly and it’s so clean! All of their hair products are amazing and my hair has never looked better. 10/10 will always be coming back!”
- Veronica L.
#Glaze Salon Chatham
business monthly
Welcome
Vette Restaurant to Chatham + Short Hills City Lifestyle!
Attached to Livingston Calabria’s you will discover an elegant NEW restaurant, Vette, which offers an elegant, intimate dining experience rooted in Naples and refined by a global culinary journey. Chef-owner Maurizio De Rosa blends Neapolitan tradition, modern technique, and thoughtful local sourcing into dishes that feel both authentic and alive. From its celebrated weekday tasting menu to private celebrations, Vette is about craft, intention, and flavors that transport. https://vette-nj.com/ and call (973) 441-9999.
Dr. Spiro is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast cancer reconstructive surgery and cosmetic procedures of the breast, body, and face including mommy makeover, tummy tuck, facelift, and more. To Dr. Spiro, every patient is unique and deserves results tailored to their concerns. You can understand his approach to care by reviewing the testimonials and before-andafter galleries at https://drspiro.com/. Scan
At Blue Code, we believe technology should empower you, not slow you down. We are your personal IT team - trusted by residents and businesses for over 15 years to keep everything connected, secure, and running without interruption.
Computer Services
Fast, expert solutions for slow systems, crashes, software problems, and everyday tech frustrations—keeping you connected and productive without the headaches.
Network Support
Reliable, secure networking solutions for homes and businesses. From Wi-Fi dead zones to unstable connections, we ensure seamless performance across every device.
Security & Protection
Safeguard your data and devices against today’s evolving threats. We deliver proactive security, backups, and peace of mind—so you are always protected When Technology Creates Problems, We Create Solutions.
EXCEPTIONAL
DENTISTRY BY SPECIALIZED DENTISTS
Dr. Azizian, DDS & Dr. Sallustio, DDS
Dr. Sallustio and Dr. Azizian practice a full scope of prosthetic and cosmetic dentistry. With a focus on implants, crowns, bridges, Kor whitening, Botox and porcelain veneers, Dr. Sallustio and Azizian help patients regain confidence in their smile. The doctors also provide life changing treatments includng same day All-on-4 implants and bridges, prosthetics for oral cancer, trauma and congenital defects including cleft lip and palate. Consider a consultation with Drs. Sallustio and Azizian to analyze your smile.
Building a family law firm grounded in authenticity, empathy and strategic advocacy across New Jersey
Law With Heart
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS
JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY & CARLEY STORM BRANDING
Sandra Fava, ESQ, Fava Law
After more than two decades practicing at large and regional law firms, Sandra C. Fava, Founding Partner of Fava Law, reached a moment of clarity. Professionally accomplished yet personally constrained, she knew it was time to redefine success on her own terms.
Beginning in 2012, Fava served as a partner at major firms and later led a department at a respected regional practice. Despite professional recognition, the demands of big law often came at the expense of family life. As a mother of three, she found the imbalance increasingly untenable. The COVID-19 pandemic—and a subsequent breast cancer diagnosis—ultimately became the catalyst for change.
“That experience ultimately gave me clarity,” Fava says. “It showed me the opportunity to create a firm where flexibility, equity and performance truly coexist. Building Fava Law allowed me to put those values into practice every day.”
Determined to build something authentic, Fava launched Fava Law with a clear vision: create a firm rooted in humanity, flexibility and excellence—without compromise. “I wanted to do this my way, create my own culture and build a brand that truly reflected who I am,” she says. “That decision has been incredibly rewarding.”
Today, Fava Law continues to grow thoughtfully, expanding complementary practice areas while maintaining its core focus on family law. The firm represents clients in divorce, grandparent visitation, domestic violence matters and complex cases involving high-net-worth individuals. A recent addition, Fava’s longtime mentor and friend, Thomas Manahan, brings deep expertise in mediation, arbitration and discovery as a court-appointed discovery master. Manahan also serves as a sounding board and resource for the firm’s younger attorneys. CONTINUED >
Chris Jorda Photography.
“I wanted to do this my way, create my own culture and build a brand that truly reflected who I am,” she says. “That decision has been incredibly rewarding.”
At the heart of Fava Law is a deeply collaborative culture. Fava believes technical legal skills are essential—but they are only part of the equation. “Legal skills can always be improved,” she notes. “What matters just as much is mentorship, alignment and truly knowing your client.”
Every member of the firm participates in case reviews and is encouraged to understand clients holistically. “We look at situations as families, not just cases,” Fava explains. “There are often many people affected, and every dynamic is unique. There’s no cookie-cutter solution.”
That philosophy shapes how the firm approaches even the most emotionally charged matters. “This area of law can be incredibly taxing,” Fava says. “If you’re not careful, you can become desensitized. We work hard not to let that happen. Acting like a human being—listening, communicating, telling clients what they need to hear—is essential.”
While Fava is a seasoned litigator, she is equally committed to guiding clients toward the best path forward, whether that means litigation, mediation, or negotiation. “Not every case needs to be fought in court,” she says. “Our role is to explain the risks and benefits, set realistic expectations and help clients make informed decisions.”
The legal landscape itself continues to evolve, and Fava Law adapts accordingly. Prenuptial agreements are more common than ever, particularly among younger couples and those entering second or third marriages. At the same time, ongoing political uncertainty and post-pandemic judicial backlogs in New Jersey have slowed court processes. “Cases are taking longer, and the system is strained,” Fava observes. “That makes strategic planning and patience even more critical.”
Beyond the courtroom, Fava is deeply committed to service. She volunteers as a pro bono attorney for the National Council for Jewish Women and Partners for Women & Justice, is a past trustee of the Essex County Bar Association and previously chaired its Family Law Committee. She serves on the Supreme Court of New Jersey District XB Ethics Committee and regularly participates in matrimonial early settlement panels. She is also a Trustee and the Secretary of the Board for CASA of Morris/Sussex Counties and an active fundraiser for breast cancer research.
For Fava, the mission is clear. “This firm is about advocacy with empathy,” she says. “We meet people where they are—and help them move forward with clarity, dignity and strength.” https://www.favalawnj.com/
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Chris Jorda Photography.
WHERE ART
Meets Medicine
Spiro Plastic Surgery's new expanded and modern office
PATIENTS WORLDWIDE SEEK DR. SPIRO'S AWARD-WINNING EXPERTISE, COMPASSION, AND ARTISTIC VISION.
ARTICLE BY BENJAMIN MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Nestled in West Orange, New Jersey, the newly renovated modern and welcoming office of Dr. Scott Spiro stands as a destination for patients from across the United States and beyond, drawn by his expertise and artistry in plastic surgery. With over 29 years of experience, Dr. Spiro’s dedication to his craft, coupled with a unique perspective shaped by his background as an artist, has built him a reputation as an award-winning plastic surgeon and a compassionate healer. His slogan, “Surgeon By Trade, Artist At Heart,” perfectly encapsulates his approach—a blend of scientific precision and creative vision that transforms and empowers his patients.
When asked about the latest innovations in body aesthetics, Dr. Spiro is enthusiastic about the advancements in breast surgery, noting the use of S.A.M.s (slow absorbable mesh) and his pioneering concept of spherical wraps and non-implant auto augmentation breast lifting. These techniques offer not only aesthetic enhancements but also long-lasting support and comfort for his patients. His approach to procedures such as tummy tucks and liposuction highlights his attention to each individual’s unique body structure. “I use cues from underlying rib and hip anatomy along with my ability to diagnose and treat abdominal wall laxity,” Dr. Spiro explains. His artistic sensibility allows him to visualize the final outcome, often resulting in what he calls the “shrink wrap effect” for a smooth, natural contour.
For Dr. Spiro, confidence and happiness are the ultimate goals of plastic surgery. “Patients just want to feel comfortable in their own bodies,” he says. This is especially evident in his facial transformations, where the impact can be life-changing. Reflecting on one memorable case, he shares, “I have a facelift patient who said her aging made her feel ugly, and now she feels beautiful again.” His advice to those considering facial surgery is grounded in wisdom and realism: “Do your research. Don’t believe everything you see on social media, and remember, surgery requires recovery. Be patient.”
Breast reconstruction, however, is where Dr. Spiro’s empathy truly shines. For many women, this journey is deeply personal and often fraught with emotional challenges. Dr. Spiro and his team take pride in providing individualized, compassionate care that offers hope and comfort. He recounts a recent success with a patient who had undergone bilateral mastectomies, describing how she hugged him and expressed gratitude for making the journey far simpler than she had feared. “We try to be a positive force for our patients in trying times,” he says, emphasizing the support network his practice offers to each patient.
Beyond his surgical accomplishments, Dr. Spiro also champions non-surgical treatments like Botox, fillers, Microneedling with PRP, Coolsculpting and Diamond Glow facials through his med spa services. “We serve a wide age range, from 20-year-olds to those in their 70s, who benefit from these minimally invasive procedures,” he explains. His practice remains at the forefront of new non-surgical innovations, always with an eye for safety and efficacy. Dr. Spiro’s expanded team includes Mikayla Barbarossa, Nurse Practitioner and Rebecca Pierce, Skin Care Specialist for all non-surgical treatments who each have extensive expertise in their fields.
Board-certified Nurse Practitioner Mikayla Barbarossa brings elite clinical training and an artist’s eye to Dr. Spiro’s award-winning plastic surgery practice. With a background in oncology nursing and advanced expertise in surgical and non-surgical aesthetics, Mikayla specializes in injectables, lasers, and skin-rejuvenating treatments that deliver natural, confidence-boosting results. She believes healthy skin is the foundation of anti-aging and combines medical-grade technology with thoughtful education to enhance every face, beautifully and safely. Ready to refine, refresh, and glow? Book your appointment with Mikayla today and start aging smarter. Mikayla services include Injectables; Botox, Xeomin, Dermal Fillers, Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters, PRF, EZ Gel and laser & advanced skin treatments such as LaseMD Ultra, Mosaic 3D, Combination Laser Treatments, Microneedling and Chemical Peels.
Dr. Spiro’s Skin Care Specialist, Rebecca Pierce, is passionate about helping patients achieve radiant, healthy skin through personalized, medical-grade treatments. With experience spanning spa and medical aesthetics, Rebecca specializes in results-driven facials, peels, microneedling, and pre- and post-procedure skin prep. She knows great skin is never one-size-fits-all—and that early, regulated skincare truly changes how we age. Let Rebecca
design your customized glow plan. Schedule your visit and put your skin in expert hands. Rebecca expertise includes Customized Medical-Grade Facials, DiamondGlow, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Microneedling with PRP and Dermaplaning.
Dr. Spiro’s background as an artist profoundly influences his approach to plastic surgery. “Art and surgery should go hand in hand. I can look at a problem and immediately decide what’s wrong and how to solve it,” he says. His gift for visualizing the final result from the outset is not only a testament to his skill but also to his empathy and intuitive understanding of his patients’ desires.
Among Dr. Spiro’s many achievements, his generosity stands out. He is volunteer faculty for Rutger’s Plastic Surgery Residency and a recent award winner as “most influential faculty leader”. Additionally, the ‘Dr. Scott and Susy Spiro Welcome Desk’ at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is a testament to his commitment to community care. Seeing the need for a warm, personal space where families could wait for loved ones undergoing surgery, he transformed the mezzanine level of the Cooperman Pavilion into a sanctuary. “I wanted to recognize the OR staff who don’t always get to share in the credit for
“Art and surgery should go hand in hand. I can look at a problem and immediately decide what’s wrong and how to solve it,” he says.
a job well done,” he says, reflecting the kindness that permeates every aspect of his practice.
Dr. Scott Spiro’s career has touched thousands of lives, bringing comfort, beauty, and self-assurance to his patients. His artistic vision, dedication to excellence, and compassionate heart have left an indelible mark not only on the field of plastic surgery but also on the lives of the many patients he serves. In the words of one of his patients, “I will always feel that I have open door to come back whenever I have the need”—a testament to the trust, respect, and gratitude that Dr. Spiro inspires in all who meet him.
Visit https://drspiro.com/ and his podcast theartistintheor.podbean.com on YouTube and Spotify.
SCOTT SPIRO, M.D., F.A.C.S
I am a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast cancer reconstructive surgery and cosmetic procedures of the breast, body, and face including mommy makeover, tummy tuck, facelift, and more. To me, every patient is unique and deserves results tailored to their concerns. You can understand my approach to care by reviewing the testimonials and before-andafter galleries at https://drspiro.com/.
Dr Scott Spiro
A NEAPOLITAN SOUL REFINED
Chef Maurizio De Rosa blends tradition technique and memory at Vette creating immersive dining experiences rooted in Naples and shaped by the world.
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOXTROT MEDIA
Fresh Sea Bass Acquapazza Poached with Cherry Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic
Tiramisu Prepared Table Side
At Vette, the elegant yet intimate restaurant tucked inside Calabria Fine Italian Dining in Livingston, every plate tells a story—one that begins in Naples and travels across continents before arriving delicately composed at the table.
For Chef and Owner Maurizio De Rosa, the menu is deeply personal. “The cuisine is heavily influenced by my native city,” De Rosa says, “and I draw a lot of inspiration from my mother’s cooking.” That foundation, however, is only the beginning. Years spent working in kitchens throughout Italy and abroad have expanded his culinary
“I am a Neapolitan,” he says “and I believe that every form of cuisine— from pizza to prestigious fish preparations—is equally capable of creating a memorable experience.”
vocabulary allowing him to incorporate modern techniques and global perspective without losing his roots.
Sous vide preparations convection ovens and super freezers—tools of the contemporary kitchen—play a role in his process as does adaptation to local sourcing. “Sourcing is different in New Jersey than it is in Naples,” he explains. “I’ve embraced ingredients that aren’t found in my hometown—scallops from the Jersey Shore and duck from Long Island— but the flavors are definitely Neapolitan.” The result is a cuisine that feels both
authentic and alive grounded in tradition while responsive to place.
That balance is perhaps most evident in Vette’s weekday tasting menu which has quickly become a signature experience. De Rosa noticed that many guests visited midweek to celebrate birthdays anniversaries and milestones eager to linger rather than rush. “A tasting menu was the perfect vehicle,” he says. “It allows guests to try more dishes in the proper sequence at a leisurely pace.” Since its introduction the response has been resounding with a noticeable
increase in couples choosing Vette for meaningful celebrations.
Despite frequent praise describing his plates as “works of art,” De Rosa is quick to clarify his philosophy. “I don’t think cooking is an art,” he says. “We are more artisans than artists.” For him craftsmanship is paramount. Technique tradition and exceptional raw materials form the essential framework. “Without those,” he adds “the rest is useless.” Within that rigor however lies room for personal taste—the hope that flavors and aromas might spark memory emotion or a sense of travel far beyond the dining room.
Fried Calamari with Basil Aioli
“I’ve embraced ingredients that aren’t found in my hometown—scallops from the Jersey Shore and duck from Long Island— but the flavors are definitely Neapolitan.”
De Rosa’s disciplined approach was shaped in part by his time partnering with Daisuke Nakazawa at Sushi Nakazawa following the chef’s journey from Tokyo to New York and ultimately to a Michelin Star. “The sourcing and minimalism of sushi and the respect for fish and preparation left an indelible mark on my cooking,” De Rosa says. He credits Japanese culinary culture for instilling a deep appreciation for rigor and precision—values that quietly inform his work at Vette.
That respect for craft has earned De Rosa recognition of his own. His Neapolitan pizzeria in Manhattan Prova received a Michelin Bib Gourmand a distinction he holds with pride. “I am a Neapolitan,” he says “and I believe that every form of cuisine—from pizza to prestigious fish preparations—is equally capable of creating a memorable experience.” At Vette that belief translates into a menu that treats every dish no matter how simple or refined with equal care.
While weekdays at Vette invite intimacy and reflection Sundays are reserved
for something altogether different. The restaurant closes to the public to host large-scale private events—weddings first communions and milestone celebrations. The ability to accommodate more than 100 guests by renting the entire space is central to De Rosa’s vision of hospitality as community. Looking ahead he envisions opening a smaller more casual front space for Sunday Neapolitan dinners designed to welcome families seeking warmth and tradition in a relaxed setting.
At its core Vette is not about spectacle. It is about intention—about honoring where food comes from how it is prepared and why it matters. Through disciplined technique thoughtful sourcing and flavors rooted firmly in Naples, De Rosa invites guests not just to dine but to remember to feel and to be transported.
In a world of trends and theatrics Vette stands quietly confident—proof that when tradition is respected and craft is refined the experience speaks for itself.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Building the Perfect Bouquet
Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.
Roses
LOVE & ROMANCE
Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.
Lilies
PURITY & FERTILITY
Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.
Tulips
PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE
A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will complement the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.
Advanced
Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation
Our board-certified Nurse Practitioner, Mikayla, delivers a fully customized approach to facial rejuvenation using advanced injectables and laser technology, including Botox®, dermal fillers, skin boosters, PRF, EZ Gel, and stateof-the-art laser treatments. By restoring volume, smoothing lines, improving skin quality, and stimulating collagen, these non-surgical solutions refine and rejuvenate the face either as standalone treatments or as part of a comprehensive plan alongside surgical care.
Our licensed aesthetician, Rebecca, provides customized, results-driven skincare treatments designed to optimize and maintain facial rejuvenation. Through personalized facials, DiamondGlow®, chemical peels, microneedling, PRP-enhanced treatments, and dermaplaning, she strengthens the skin’s foundation—enhancing the results of injectables, lasers, and surgical care for a truly comprehensive approach.
