Chatham & Short Hills, NJ May 2026

Dr. Mark I. Khaimov, D.D.S.

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.

May 2026: Our Women’s Issue

May always brings a sense of renewal. The days grow longer, our communities feel more energized, and it becomes a natural moment to celebrate the people who make our towns such vibrant places to live. For this month’s Women’s Issue, we’re shining a spotlight on the women who are leading, creating, and inspiring throughout our community.

In these pages, you’ll meet women who are building businesses, supporting one another, and turning their passions into meaningful work. Some are entrepreneurs forging their own paths, while others are professionals and community leaders making an impact in quieter but equally powerful ways. What connects them all is a shared spirit of resilience, creativity, and a willingness to lift others along the way.

This issue is also a reminder that strong communities are built through connection. When women support one another, collaborate, and share their experiences, it creates opportunities for growth that reach far beyond business.

As you read this month’s stories, we hope you feel inspired by the remarkable women who live and work right here in our community.

If you’re looking to grow your business and would like to advertise with us or share a local story, please reach out to John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com or call 973-944-1440.

We look forward to seeing you around town.

STEPHANY AZNAR, EDITOR @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS

May 2026

PUBLISHER

John Meyer | john.meyer@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stephany Aznar | stephany.aznar@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kelsey Harper

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Ben Meyer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brian Boyer, Stephany Aznar, Ana Meyer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Jorda Photography

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

Restoring Confidence, One Smile at a Time

How prosthodontist Dr. Ashley Azizian helps patients reclaim comfort, confidence, and a sense of self

Empowered Women, Empowering Women

B.I.G. Celebrates 17 Years of Women Supporting Women on Their Entrepreneurial Journeys

How one entrepreneur built something meaningful—blending business, family, and community impact

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Where Beautiful Hair Is Just the Beginning

- Michelle J.

Restoring Confidence,

One Smile at a Time

How prosthodontist Dr. Ashley Azizian helps patients reclaim comfort, confidence, and a sense of self

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER & DR. AZIZIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED & CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY

For years, she covered her mouth when she laughed. Eating in public felt stressful. Smiling for photos became something to avoid. After being told her dental issues were too complex to fix, she assumed this was simply how life would be.

Then she found her way to SmilesBySpecialists.

Stories like hers are not uncommon in Dr. Ashley Azizian’s practice. Many patients arrive feeling discouraged, having spent years managing discomfort or believing their situation cannot be improved. What they are often seeking is not just dental care, but a way to feel like themselves again.

Prosthodontics, a highly specialized field of dentistry focuses on restoring and replacing teeth, demanding precision, artistry and deep technical knowledge. For Dr. Azizian, it also represents the culmination of a lifelong commitment to helping patients reclaim both function and self-confidence.

Her path to this specialty was shaped during her residency at Manhattan VA where she treated patients with anxiety and PTSD. Many faced complex oral health challenges and had limited access to care.

“Those experiences stayed with me,” she says. “I saw how much our work could change their daily life— not just physically, but emotionally.”

Today, Dr. Azizian specializes in advanced procedures that restore both function and aesthetics, including full-mouth reconstructions, dental implants and complex prosthetic treatments. Many patients who walk through the doors of her Madison and Ocean practices arrive after being told their dental challenges are too difficult to treat. Those experiences are the most meaningful to Dr. Azizian and her partner, Dr. Anthony Sallustio.

“One of the most meaningful moments is when a patient smiles without thinking about it,” Dr. Azizian says. “Or when they tell me they went out to dinner and ordered whatever they wanted for the first time in years.”

“Our philosophy is that technology should enhance care and make it more accessible,” Dr. Azizian explained. “By embracing digital workflows and advanced techniques, we can often provide treatment more efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of quality.” That commitment to innovation has helped the practice attract patients from across northern New Jersey and beyond.

She also recognizes that many patients walk in feeling anxious or unsure. Building trust and creating a sense of ease is an essential part of the experience. “Trust starts before any treatment begins,” she says. “It starts when patients feel heard and understood.”

“Our philosophy is that technology should enhance care and make it more accessible.”

Like many women entering historically male-dominated medical specialties, Dr. Azizian has also encountered challenges along the way. Although the number of women in dentistry continues to grow, younger female clinicians sometimes still face skepticism.

“Early in your career, confidence is critical,” Dr. Azizian said. “Patients ultimately care about expertise and results, but you have to believe in your training and your ability.”

That message is one she frequently shares with students and young professionals interested in the field. Prosthodontics, she notes, requires years of rigorous education and comes with significant financial investment. Dental school debt can be substantial, making mentorship and careful career planning especially important.

Even though prosthodontics is a demanding profession, Dr. Azizian remains passionate about her work and optimistic about the future of restorative dentistry. As technologies evolve and treatment approaches continue to improve, she believes the possibilities for patients will only expand.

Despite the complexity of her work, Dr. Azizian remains focused on a simple goal. “Every patient comes in with their own story,” she says. “If we can help them leave feeling comfortable, confident, and whole again—that’s what matters most.”

B.I.G. Celebrates 17 Years of Women Supporting Women on Their Entrepreneurial Journeys

EMPOWERED WOMEN, EMPOWERING WOMEN

ARTICLE BY STEPHANY AZNAR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY

In 2009, Tara Gilvar’s life changed when a bumper sticker caught her eye with a message that resonated deeply: “Remember Who You Wanted to Be.” Inspired by this simple yet powerful phrase, Tara sent an email to her community, igniting a movement that would empower countless women to chase their dreams and redefine their destinies.

Today, Tara is the CEO and founder of B.I.G. (Believe Inspire Grow), a community of women entrepreneurs who support one another through the highs and lows of business and personal growth. As B.I.G. celebrates its 17th anniversary, Tara reflects on the journey.

“My hope is for B.I.G. to continue evolving and fostering a culture of women supporting women for generations to come,” she shares.

Over the years, B.I.G. has provided members with meaningful opportunities to grow their businesses and expand their networks. Among them was a partnership with the global fintech company Fiserv, which showcased more than thirty B.I.G. member businesses to over 3,000 employees at its Berkeley Heights Innovation Center.

While B.I.G. began in New Jersey, the organization has expanded both nationally and globally. This past summer, Tara led a group of nine U.S. women entrepreneurs, including family law attorney Sandra Fava, on a global women’s retreat to Malaga, Spain, where they met and built relationships with B.I.G.’s international sister organization, Costa Women.

Costa Women, founded by Ali Meehan, supports women entrepreneurs across Europe by helping them enhance their professional and personal lives. For the past nine years, B.I.G. and Costa Women have hosted monthly online educational sessions and networking events for their joint members, building meaningful relationships and opportunities along the way.

In the United States, B.I.G.’s local community groups, called pods, bring women together monthly in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and most recently Sarasota County, Florida. These gatherings provide a supportive environment where women collaborate, brainstorm business ideas, and navigate both professional and personal challenges.

B.I.G. exists to empower women to rediscover their sense of self, build authentic connections, and confidently pursue lives and businesses that feel aligned, supported, and meaningful.

Looking ahead, Tara Gilvar and her leadership team aim to create a lasting, multi-generational women’s empowerment community that inspires growth, connection, and impact locally and globally through education, shared experiences, and genuine human connection.

Two remarkable women, Sandra Fava and Cathy Maloney, are shining examples of how B.I.G. members embody these values and thrive in their own unique ways.

“My hope is for B.I.G. to continue evolving and fostering a culture of women supporting women for generations to come.”

CATHY MALONEY: EMPOWERING THROUGH HOMEOWNERSHIP

Cathy Maloney, VP of Mortgage Lending at Atlantic Financial Services, finds her greatest motivation in making homeownership a reality for her clients.

“Seeing the excitement on a new home buyer’s face when I tell them their loan is approved is priceless!” Cathy says, reflecting on the meaningful impact of her work.

Throughout her career, Cathy has overcome challenges by leaning on her network of real estate partners and her B.I.G. sisters.

“The support, empowerment, and friendship from the B.I.G. community are invaluable. I never hesitate to call on one of my B.I.G. sisters for inspiration or problem-solving,” she shares.

Cathy also embraces the challenge of working with clients who may not fit the ideal mortgage profile.

“I’ve successfully guided people with credit issues, low down payments, and spotty employment through the mortgage approval process,” she explains.

For aspiring entrepreneurs: “Know your business and educate your clients. A confused mind says no. Develop a strong support network and stay resilient.”

Reach Cathy at cmaloney@atlanticloans.com

SANDRA FAVA: ADVOCATING FOR FAMILIES IN TRANSITION

Sandra Fava, ESQ, is a passionate advocate for families navigating complex transitions,

including divorce, custody disputes, asset division, and domestic violence. She has been helping families for over 20 years. Her dedication to family law stems from personal experiences and her journey through law school, shaping her desire to support clients through some of life’s most challenging moments.

“Being a part of this process and helping through the transition is real and personal work, and deeply gratifying,” Sandra shares.

After over a decade of inspiration from the B.I.G. community, Sandra took a bold step and founded her own law firm in September 2024. She gained invaluable insights on financial challenges and business ownership, lessons not taught in law school.

Her advice to aspiring female entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: “Be prepared and know your worth.”

www.favalawnj.com

JOIN B.I.G.

Women interested in exploring B.I.G. locally are currently invited to attend one complimentary meeting at a pod of their choice through B.I.G.’s new “Give & Get” promotion.

As part of the organization’s 17th Anniversary Celebration, new members can receive $75 off the annual membership fee through April 30, 2026.

For more information, visit www.believeinspiregrow.com or email membership@believeinspiregrow.co

FROM Vision TO COMMUNITY: A FAMILY’S Bold LEAP

How one entrepreneur built something meaningful—blending business, family, and community impact

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY

When you walk into Toastique in Chatham, you’re greeted by more than vibrant smoothies and artfully crafted toasts—you’re stepping into a story of energy, connection, and purpose.

For Michele Flannery-Flannery-Wardius, owner of the Chatham location and also agent partner/realtor associate with The Sue Adler Team, the journey to entrepreneurship reflects the same drive and relationship-focused mindset that has defined her successful real estate career.

An established and respected realtor, Michele has long been known for her ability to connect with clients, understand their needs and guide them through important life decisions. That same philosophy—centered on trust, community and experience—naturally extended into her next venture.

“We wanted something that aligned with how we live—healthy, community-focused and meaningful,” said Flannery-Wardius. “When we found Toastique, it just clicked.”

The decision to open a franchise came with the same strategic thinking she brings to her real estate work—evaluating opportunity, understanding the market and trusting her instincts.

“You’re always going to hear why something won’t work,” she said. “But if you believe in it, you have to follow your vision.”

That vision came to life in Chatham, where the café quickly became more than a place to eat—it became a gathering space.

“It’s about creating an experience,” Flannery-Wardius explained. “A place where people feel comfortable, connected and part of something.”

Like any new business, the early days required focus, adaptability and commitment.

“The first year was a learning experience,” Flannery-Wardius said. “We were building a team, refining operations and really understanding what our customers wanted.”

It quickly became a family-driven effort. Her daughter stepped into a leadership role, managing daily operations, training staff and helping shape the culture of the business.

“She’s been incredible,” FlanneryWardius said. “Watching her grow into that role has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.”

Meanwhile, Flannery-Wardius continues to thrive in her real estate career, seamlessly balancing both worlds. Toastique has even become a natural extension of her professional life—a place to meet clients, build relationships and stay deeply connected to the community she serves.

That connection is what sets Toastique apart.

“We listen to our customers,” she said. “Whether it’s adding something new or creating events like a weekly mahjong game, it’s about building a space where people want to come back—not just for the food, but for the experience.”

The Chatham community has embraced that vision, turning Toastique into a vibrant local hub.

“It’s not just us—it’s our team and our customers,” she said. “That’s what makes it special.”

For Flannery-Wardius, success is about more than business growth—it’s about impact, relationships, and staying true to what matters.

“People will always have opinions,” she said. “But you have to trust yourself and stay focused on what you’re building.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, her message is simple and direct.

“Don’t overthink it,” Flannery-Wardius said. “If you believe in something, take the step. Surround yourself with the right people and go for it.”

At Toastique’s Chatham location, that mindset is on full display—a business built on energy, community and a clear vision for what’s possible.

Michele

Flannery-Wardius: Realtor, Entrepreneur, Community Builder

• Established Realtor: A trusted agent partner with The Sue Adler Team, Michele has built a strong reputation for guiding clients through one of life’s biggest decisions, buying and selling homes with expertise, integrity, and personalized service.

• Relationship-Driven Success: Known for her ability to connect with people and understand their goals, she has earned the respect of both clients and colleagues across the local real estate community.

• Entrepreneurial Vision: Owner of Toastique in Chatham, bringing a vibrant café concept centered on health, community, and connection to the neighborhood.

• Family-Powered Business: Built Toastique as a collaborative family venture, with her daughter helping lead daily operations and team development.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

The Women Behind the Ultimate Plastic Surgery Experience

At Spiro Plastic Surgery, exceptional care begins with an extraordinary team and ends with empowered patients.

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to meet Dr. Scott Spiro of Spiro Plastic Surgery, a few things immediately stand out: his deep commitment to patient care, his dedication to offering the most advanced surgical techniques, and the genuine respect he has for the people who help make his practice exceptional. Ask him about the success of his renowned practice, and he is quick to credit the talented team of professionals who work alongside him, who play an essential role in shaping the patient experience.

In honor of the Women’s Issue, Dr. Spiro is shining a well-deserved spotlight on the women who help create the warm, supportive environment patients encounter from the moment they walk through the doors.

THE TEAM BEHIND THE EXPERIENCE

From the very first phone call to the final follow-up appointment, every interaction at Spiro Plastic Surgery is designed to make patients feel welcomed, understood, and cared for.

“My goal is to make the patient feel comfortable, confident, and supported every step of the way,” shares Kelly from the front desk, who is often the first smiling face patients meet.

That philosophy of reassurance and attentiveness runs throughout the entire practice. Office Manager Jamie, who has been instrumental in maintaining the practice’s seamless day-today operations, explains it best: “I wear many hats, always thinking a few steps ahead to support Dr. Spiro and ensure everything runs seamlessly, with a level of care that reflects how deeply personal this practice is to me.”

CONTINUED >

Behind the scenes and in the treatment rooms, the clinical team brings together advanced medical knowledge and genuine compassion. Registered Nurse Gina describes her approach simply yet powerfully: “As a nurse, I try to combine clinical expertise with a compassionate approach to ensure every patient feels safe, informed, and genuinely cared for.” This is very important in the complex Mommy and Weight Loss Makeover patients, as Dr. Spiro is known for transformative combination surgery.

Even the practice’s digital presence reflects that same transparency and dedication. Marketing Coordinator Gabby ensures prospective patients can learn about procedures, see real patient experiences, and understand the philosophy behind the practice before they ever step inside.

“My job is to make sure prospective or current patients receive bonus, factual information through our website and social media platforms,” she says. “They get a behind-the-scenes look into our practice, providers, and hear from other patients who have undergone treatments they might be interested in.”

Together, these women create the supportive, collaborative culture that defines the practice. When asked to describe the team in a single word, the responses say it all: Exceptional. Devotion. Excellence. Powerhouse.

THE HEART OF IT ALL: THE PATIENT

While the team behind the scenes is extraordinary, the true focus of Spiro Plastic Surgery has always been the patient.

Women from across the country and even around the world seek out Dr. Spiro’s expertise for both surgical and non-surgical treatments. His reputation as an award-winning plastic surgeon is built not only on technical skill, but also on an unwavering commitment to doing what is truly best for each individual patient. He specializes in auto augmentation, non-implant breast lifts, customized deep plane face and neck lifting, and of course, mommy and weight loss makeovers.

The practice treats women of all ages from young adults exploring preventative skincare and subtle enhancements to women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond who are interested in rejuvenation or restorative procedures. Every patient arrives with her own story, goals, and concerns, and is met with a thoughtful, individualized approach.

And every patient is met with the same guiding principle: personalized care rooted in integrity.

Whether someone is considering surgical procedures such as breast enhancement, reduction, body contouring,

or facial rejuvenation or exploring nonsurgical treatments like injectables, skin therapies, or advanced laser technologies, the process always begins with a thoughtful conversation.

The goal isn’t simply transformation. It’s empowerment.

Patients are educated, supported, and encouraged to make informed decisions that align with their personal goals and comfort levels. Sometimes that means recommending a procedure. Other times it means advising patience, exploring non-surgical options, or deciding that no treatment is necessary at all.

It’s this honesty and thoughtful guidance that has earned Dr. Spiro the deep trust of his patients and why so many women travel long distances to be under his care for 30 years.

As Nurse Practitioner Mikayla puts it simply, the goal for every woman who walks through the door is to leave feeling one powerful thing: “Confident.” Mikayla, the practice’s Nurse Practitioner, skilled injector, and laser expert, together with Rebecca, the practice’s experienced and highly celebrated aesthetician, collaborate daily to elevate the skincare end of the practice. This is critically essential for Dr. Spiro’s deep plane face and neck lift patients, as well as non-surgical patients alike.

Beyond the office, Dr. Spiro is supported by an exceptional team of female operating room staff, anesthesiologists, and CRNAs who play a vital role in every surgical experience. At Spiro Plastic Surgery, the mission goes far beyond aesthetics - it’s about helping women feel empowered to look and live as the very best versions of themselves.   https://drspiro.com/ IG: @spiroplasticsurgery

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Dr. Spiro’s Customized High SMAS Deep Plane Face & Neck Lift

Dr. Spiro’s facial rejuvenation approach centers on a customized High SMAS Deep Plane face and neck lift, restoring natural anatomy by refining contours, improving neck definition, and delivering durable, elegant results. Each plan is individualized and may include brow lift, lip lift, blepharoplasty, and strategic fat grafting to cheeks, temples, and marionette areas to ensure cohesive and natural results.

Advanced Combination Mommy and Weight Loss Makeovery Surgery

Dr. Spiro’s body transformation approach combines 30 years of surgical expertise with an artist’s eye, creating customized plans for patients after pregnancy, or significant weight loss. Combining procedures like abdominoplasty with rectus repair, breast lifting, augmentation, or reduction, arm lifting, lateral torso and back lifting, Dr. Spiro restores natural anatomy, refines proportions, and achieves durable, balanced results often with fewer procedures and steps.

Elevate Your Skin with Non-Surgical Outcomes

Non-surgical care provided by Nurse Practitioner Mikayla and skin care specialist Rebecca builds upon Dr. Spiro’s surgical foundation. Injectables, lasers, and medical grade skincare refine skin quality, support healing, and help maintain surgical results. These treatments keep outcomes from face and neck lifts balanced and long lasting, while also providing meaningful, standalone improvements for patients seeking non-surgical rejuvenation.