On your healthcare journey, the road to recovery starts in the same place.
Around the corner.
Welcome Home!
Home. Just four letters, yet it carries a lifetime of meaning. It’s our sanctuary and our foundation— the place where daily life unfolds, memories are made, and our hearts find their way back to rest. While the specifics of what “home” looks like vary for each of us, the feeling it creates is universal.
Author Wendy Wunder captured it perfectly: “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” Inspired by that sentiment, this issue highlights the many elements that make a house feel like home—intentional design and renovation, thoughtful organization, and the food and gatherings that turn everyday moments into meaningful celebrations.
Lately, I’ve been reminded that home isn’t about perfection—it’s about comfort. It’s the familiar routines, shared meals, and spaces that evolve with us over time that make a house feel truly lived in and loved.
This month, we had the privilege of connecting with local businesses and individuals who shape this community again. Their stories highlight the creativity, resilience, and heart that make this area feel like home. We hope that as you turn these pages, you’ll be inspired to strengthen your connections—in your neighborhood, town, or even within your own walls.
Many of our readers tell us they hold onto this magazine long after the month on its cover has passed, treasuring it as a piece of home—whether as coffee table art or a source of inspiration. That’s a tradition we’re proud to uphold, and we remain committed to delivering the value you expect each month.
At Denville City Lifestyle, our mission has always been to celebrate connection, both within our community and beyond. We love hearing from our readers and discovering the stories that make Denville so special. If you have a story to share, a milestone to celebrate, or a business you’d like to introduce, we’d love to hear from you. Send us your photos and details—you might just see them featured in an upcoming issue.
For more local highlights and behind-the-scenes moments, follow us on Instagram @DenvilleCityLifestyle.
Thank you for continuing to welcome us into your homes.
March 2026
PUBLISHER
Alessandra Guarneri alessandra.guarneri@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Aster Pheonyx aster.pheonyx@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Ellen S. Wilkowe wilkowe@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephanie Blum stephanie@stephanieblumphoto.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lauren Anzevino King, Alessandra Guarneri, American BBQ Company
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6 Learn how
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Oaks at Denville hosted our first ever Denville City Lifestyle Day! 2: Suhair from The Fig & Zaytoun treated guests to a selection of delicious samples 3: Attendees enjoyed fun giveaways from Believe In Me Developmental Therapy Center! 4: Christina, owner of Ribbon + Bloom Co., showcased her beautiful event cart and floral arrangements 5: MountainView Veterinary Hospital added excitement to the event with raffle giveaways for pet owners! 6: The Reneww Design team presented their beautifully executed interior design transformations 7: Amanda, owner of Tidy Red, highlighted her organizational expertise through real client projects
Photography by Alessandra Guarneri
business monthly
Sheeran Real Estate Group: Complimentary Home Evaluations & Staging Consultations
The Sheeran Real Estate Group is offering complimentary home valuations and staging consultations for homeowners considering a move. Their experienced team provides strategic insight into pricing, presentation, and current market conditions to help sellers maximize value and attract qualified buyers. Whether planning an upcoming sale or simply exploring options, homeowners can gain clarity and confidence with expert guidance. To learn more or schedule a consultation, call (973) 957-0255 or visit sheeranrealestate.com/connect
Scan to read more
Lewandowski Chiropractic Welcomes Physical Therapist Derek Hendershot, PT, DPT
Lewandowski Chiropractic is welcoming a new member to its care team. Derek Hendershot, PT, DPT, now offers in-house physical therapy services at the practice’s Boonton location, providing patients with a seamless, coordinated approach to treatment and recovery. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (973) 402-1331
Saint Clare’s Health Introduces Peripheral Artery Disease Screenings
Saint Clare’s Health is now offering Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) screenings at its Denville and Dover hospitals. This self-pay screening helps detect vascular disease early and provides same-day results with a detailed report and recommended follow-up care if needed. Screenings are available Monday through Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for $150. To schedule your screening, call 973-989-3188
Photography by Sheeran Real Estate Group
Photography by Saint Clare's Hospital
Photography by Lewandowski Chiropractic
PET OF THE MONTH Whiskey
Likes -running in the woods - rolling around his backyard -ear scratches - all of the treats and food he can get!
Dislikes - fireworks - being left at home -squirrels in his yard!
In celebration of our “Home” issue, we’re excited to feature Whiskey as Denville City Lifestyle’s Pet of the Month for March Whiskey is a five-year-old Golden Irish (Irish Setter and Golden Retriever mix) and the beloved good boy who happily greets visitors at the Sheeran Real Estate office serving as something of an unofficial mascot When he’s not hard at work welcoming guests, you might find him around town on the hunt for treats. If you spot him, be sure to say hello!
Buy ONE day of Daycare or ONE Overnight Boarding for your furry friend and get the SECOND Day or Overnight HALF OFF!
ARTICLE BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN ANZEVINO KING, STEPHANIE BLUM
ROOM TO REDISCOVER
CUSTOM DESIGN CARPENTRY SHOWS HOMEOWNERS HOW TO ELEVATE THEIR SPACE INTO SOMETHING NEW—PROVING YOU DON’T HAVE TO MOVE TO LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE.
Joey Chan doesn’t believe in wasted space, only unrealized potential.
It’s a philosophy that has shaped his career and the homes he transforms across North Jersey. As the owner of Custom Design Carpentry in Denville, Chan approaches each project as both a master carpenter and strategic problem-solver, rethinking how homes function and turning underused areas into purposeful, well-designed spaces.
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, Chan takes a collaborative, hands-on approach to every project. From custom built-ins to full-scale renovations, he works closely with homeowners from start to finish, focusing on breathing new life into spaces that no longer serve the way people live today.
That approach is especially relevant in today’s housing landscape. With more than two decades of craftsmanship behind him, Chan understands how closely design decisions intersect with lifestyle shifts and market realities. And as inventory has tightened and moving has become less appealing in recent years, there has been an increase in homeowners reinvesting in their existing spaces.
“More people are choosing to stay in their current homes instead of moving into a new one,” Chan explained. “So, the trend leans toward renovations.”
That shift has fueled demand for high-impact projects that improve both daily living and long-term value. Kitchens remain the most requested space, followed closely by bathrooms and additions designed to accommodate growing or multigenerational families. One of the most common requests centers on improving flow between dining and kitchen areas.
“Taking down the wall that separates the dining room and kitchen can really open up space,” he added.
Additions follow closely behind, often driven by changing family needs.
“Maybe there’s a family moving out of New York City and into the suburbs, and they might want a new bedroom,” Chan said.
In some cases, those needs are more complex. For Chan, one cornerstone project in Lake Mohawk involved adding an entirely new level to the home.
“It was a complete gut and then rebuild,” he added. “The only element that remained was the kitchen which was prerenovated before the homeowner purchased it.”
Bathrooms are another major focus, with homeowners prioritizing smarter layouts and clear separation between showers, toilets, and soaking tubs. Beyond large-scale renovations, many clients opt for impactful, cost-effective updates such as new lighting, fresh paint, cabinet upgrades, or surface refacing. To support those projects, Chan maintains a dedicated kitchen cabinetry showroom in Garfield.
Design balance also plays an increasingly important role. Homeowners are blending modern features with natural elements, incorporating plants and organic materials to soften the high-tech aspects of contemporary living.
For first-time renovators, the process begins with a detailed phone consultation, where vision, scope, and budget are discussed openly from the start. Transparency is central to Chan’s approach.
“We are very thorough and upfront. There are no surprises and no hidden costs.”
Depending on the project, Custom Design Carpentry assembles a trusted network of subcontractors, including plumbers, electricians, and specialty trades, ensuring consistency from start to finish.
“MORE PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING TO STAY IN THEIR CURRENT HOMES INSTEAD OF MOVING INTO A NEW ONE,” CHAN EXPLAINED.
“SO, THE TREND LEANS TOWARD RENOVATIONS.”
Chan’s work ethic is rooted in his family’s immigrant story. His father emigrated from Hong Kong, working two jobs to reunite the family in the U.S. when Chan was five. He credits his parents, along with early hands-on experience as a kitchen designer, for shaping both his craftsmanship and eye for design.
Backed by a Business Management Information Systems degree from Seton Hall University and more than two decades in the industry, Chan has built a largely residential business fueled by repeat clients and referrals. Upsizing projects make up the majority of his work, with social media extending his reach to an even larger audience.
When he’s not transforming homes, Chan spends time with his wife and three children in Whippany or planning their next family adventure.
Beautiful Friendships Since 2015
Believe in Me’s full-day center-based ABA program features 1:1 support from highly trained and compassionate staff, customized behavior intervention plans, a strong focus on social skills built in throughout the entire day, parent support with daily session notes and contact with your child’s team, on-site and full-time dedicated BCBAs who provide on-going staff supervision, training and parent support sessions, and so much more! We host family inclusion events held throughout the year and also provide OT and speech therapy on-site!
Home, History, and a Century
Now 102, Marie Lattari has called Denville home for nearly seventy years.
Some places are meant to be passed through. Others are meant to be stayed in. For Marie Lattari, Denville quietly became both. At 102 years old, Marie has watched history reshape the world—and quietly reshape her corner of it, too. Born in 1923, her path to this gem of a New Jersey town began in New York, where she and her husband, Daniel, were restoring a home in New Rochelle—before a professional relocation set the next chapter in motion.
He worked for RCA, and when the company decided to build a new plant in Rockaway, the family was asked to relocate. Pregnant at the time and reluctant to leave the city, she remembers driving through Rockaway and thinking, What am I doing here? There wasn’t even a movie theater.
Still, they searched. Hackettstown first, then Rockaway—and in 1957, they landed in Denville. It didn’t take long before the town felt like home. That house, the one she bought 69 years ago, is still her home today.
Over the years, Marie watched Denville grow busier. Traffic increased. More people arrived. But much of what mattered stayed the same. Main Street never filled with high rises or large corporations. The town retained its charm. Homes remained homes—not oversized statements, but places built for living.
Among the many things that kept Marie rooted in Denville was its closeness to nature
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
and the outdoors. Living along the Rockaway River shaped her days and her family’s memories. She also enjoyed time at the Rockaway River Country Club, where she golfed, relaxed by the pool, and shared meals. Summers were spent outdoors—swimming, gathering with neighbors, and embracing the rhythm of community life. Winters brought ice skating on the lake and quieter moments. Children played in the streets, rode bikes freely, and treated the neighborhood like an extension of their own backyards.
As she raised five children in Denville, Marie balanced family life with a strong commitment to work and service. She began her career as a secretary for the U.S. Army. When her youngest child entered school, she became church secretary at Church of the Savior for 15 years, while also serving as a Girl Scout leader and volunteering at Saint Clare’s Hospital, working the front desk and manning phones for self-help services. Along the way, Marie faced and overcame
breast cancer—a challenge she met with the same quiet resilience that defined her life.
Her home was a place where grandchildren returned on weekends, fishing off the dock turned into fresh-cooked dinners, and stories were made without trying to be memorable— they simply were.
“I loved being outside and living here because I love the river,” Marie explained.
Now, she is the grandmother to nine grandchildren and the great-grandmother to 14 great-grandchildren.
Even as life changed, Denville continued to feel right. When her husband retired rather than accept a longer commute, the decision felt easy. Later, after his passing in 1989, Marie stayed. This house held her history. It was the home she raised her family in and the last remaining link to her children’s childhood and her own early years. With familiar routines, walks through town, and time spent with friends, she found comfort in staying rooted.
“It was always great living here because everything is so close,” Lattari said.
Today, Marie’s days are quieter, but still full. She spends her time reading—now on her iPad—working on puzzles, knitting, and keeping her home in order. She stays connected through frequent calls and texts with family and friends, unwinds with Jeopardy!, and enjoys weekly dinners around town.
Even in her later years, Marie continued to seek purpose. At 75, she returned to work, holding front-desk positions for a local chiropractor and later a podiatrist for 14 years. That same year,
she enrolled in a Braille course and qualified as a transcriber for the American Red Cross.
“I enjoyed Braille the most,” she added. “It’s an achievement that I’m proud of.”
People often ask Marie what she did to reach the impressive age of 102. Her answer is simple: eat and keep active. “You have to keep moving,” she said. When it comes to diet, she doesn’t follow strict rules—she eats everything, just in moderation.
“I have kids who call me often,” she added. “I have friends I’m still in touch with.”
She still gets her hair cut locally at Lucia C. Salon and remains a familiar face at her favorite restaurants, including Suppa’s, Cafe Crevier, and Cafe Metro—where a waitress who never writes anything down always impresses her by getting every order right. She stopped driving after turning 101, not because she was told to, but because she chose responsibility over independence—one of many thoughtful decisions that have guided her life.
When asked what makes Denville home after all these years, her answer is simple: everything is close, everything matters, and everything feels connected. The people. The walkability. The sense that life happens right outside your door.
Marie has lived through several wars, economic upheaval, cultural change, and more than a century of transformation. Yet the place she chose nearly 70 years ago still holds steady.
For her, home isn’t about square footage or trends. It’s about familiarity, memory, and staying rooted where life unfolded—one ordinary, extraordinary day at a time.
WHEN CHAOS CLEARS, ORDER APPEARS
DISCOVER HOW TIDY RED TURNS OVERWHELMED SPACES INTO FUNCTIONAL HOMES.
Some people see clutter. Amanda Rivera sees possibility.
As the founder of Tidy Red, Rivera approaches home organization as something far more personal than simply sorting bins or clearing shelves. Her work sits at the intersection of function and feeling—helping people restore order while navigating the emotional weight that often comes with letting go.
ARTICLE BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE BLUM
“Some people stress clean, but I’m a stress organizer,” she explained. “I enjoy it and it makes me feel good.”
A Denville native and mother of one, Rivera channels her passion for order into helping others with home organization and decluttering.
Welcome to Tidy Red—as in Renew, Energize, and Declutter. A whimsical play on her natural red locks, the name also builds in a standout factor in the crowded field of home organizers.
“Everything in your house should have a place and a purpose, and if it doesn’t have either, my job is to figure that out.”
With a foundation rooted in customer service, she brings a people-first mindset and a naturally social approach to her work.
“I just love helping people,” she added.
By working directly in the home, Rivera provides a more intimate form of customer service—one that deals in the currency of emotion.
Home organization and decluttering require a thoughtful balance—one that respects both practical needs and sentimental attachments. The process often begins with a simple first step: picking up the phone.
During the complimentary consultation, Rivera thoughtfully addresses each client’s concerns and hesitations. If the project aligns with her expertise—she notes that hoarding cases require specialized certification—she then conducts a comprehensive, in-home assessment to evaluate the space as a whole.
The initial in-person visit involves a bit of feng shui and an overall read on the energy in the home.
“As soon as I enter the front door, I map out the entire flow of the house,” she said. “Once I understand the flow, I move forward from there.”
Rivera uses a step-by-step approach, beginning with easier categories like clothing before moving on to more emotionally charged items.
“The sentiments are really difficult,” she explained. Rivera is deeply committed to keeping usable items out of landfills. She often helps clients sell or donate belongings with sentimental or financial value.
Over time, her business has grown organically through social media, word of mouth, and shared before-and-after photos that sparked early interest. Today, referrals and client reviews continue to drive demand.
Her core clientele—what she calls her “bread and butter”—includes recent and long-time empty nesters looking to reclaim their homes while thoughtfully working through the emotional layers of letting go.
“Sometimes I’m with my clients at the worst moments in their lives, such as divorce, separation, or a health crisis,” she said. “I like to think of myself as a ray of sunshine in a dark time for them, and my customer service skills get them to talk and reclaim their home.”
Beyond organization and decluttering, Rivera finds her greatest fulfillment in working with seniors.
“They are so appreciative,” she said. “Some of them can’t get on their hands and knees and will say ‘I’ve been trying to do that for weeks.’ I leave those sessions glad I picked a profession where I am genuinely helping them.”
Looking ahead, Rivera plans to pursue certification through the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers, further strengthening her ability to support older clients with care and professionalism.
With her busiest season beginning in March and building through the warmer months, Rivera continues to balance growing demand with the personal touch that defines her work.
Outside of organization mode, Rivera spends time with her husband and daughter and enjoys a good round of bingo or a local tricky tray—simple pleasures that reflect the same sense of care and connection she brings into every home.
Because for Rivera, organization isn’t just about clearing space—it’s about creating room for people to move forward.
images taken at The Container Store in Livingston, NJ
TIDY RED
Tidy Red is a professional home organization business founded by Amanda Rivera, a lifelong organizer whose unmistakable red hair inspired the name. Tidy by nature since childhood—long before organization became her profession— Rivera paired that instinct with a people-first approach to create Tidy Red, short for Renew, Energize, and Declutter. Today, she helps homeowners restore clarity and calm through thoughtful, judgment-free organization, turning everyday spaces into functional environments that support real life, growth, and peace of mind. For more information, visit tidyred.com
FROM BACKYARD CELEBRATIONS TO MILESTONE MOMENTS, AMERICAN BBQ COMPANY BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER ACROSS GENERATIONS.
A TRADITION ON FIRE
When it comes to American culture, barbecue is as deeply woven into our food history as apple pie—maybe even more, depending on who you ask.
From backyard cookouts and spirited tailgates to milestone birthdays and family celebrations, the thrill of the grill and the slow patience of time-honored cooking continues to captivate. The barbecue world keeps delivering—hits, pits, and all.
Morris County native Kevin Smith, owner of American BBQ Company in Denville, understands that appeal firsthand. With three decades in the business, Smith saw an opportunity early on and wasn’t afraid to strike the match.
“We recognized an underserved niche for outdoor catering,” he said.
Founded in 1996, American BBQ began with a focus on gourmet barbecue events of all sizes, both indoors and out, long before elevated outdoor catering became
commonplace. At a time when fast-casual dining was reshaping mall culture, barbecue—despite its deep American roots dating back to explorer John Lederer’s 1672 travel writings—had yet to achieve the elevated, experience-driven reputation it enjoys today.
Smith recognized that barbecue could be more than casual fare—it could anchor meaningful gatherings, milestone moments, and professionally executed events without losing its soul.
Through the haze of pop culture and possibility, Smith saw where barbecue was headed…and Bobby Flay would likely approve.
The business grew slowly and deliberately, starting with the essentials: ribs, barbecue chicken, and pulled pork—quality always taking precedence over quantity. That commitment to quality remains central today, paired with a wide range of themed menus designed to suit nearly any occasion. Think pig roasts, clambakes, Southern-style spreads, Latin flavors, and more.
That’s not to dismiss the nostalgia of a traditional backyard barbecue—the beer-clutching dads, the charred burgers, and the easy familiarity. Even that image has evolved, with moms now manning the grill just as confidently.
“IN OCTOBER WE FEATURE AN OKTOBERFEST MENU.
THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS ARE ALSO BIG,” SMITH EXPLAINED.
But larger gatherings, family or otherwise, often call for professional help. A catered barbecue elevates an event through both flavor and experience—without the cost or constraints of a banquet hall.
For in-home events, American BBQ brings the entire operation directly to the host. Their friendly, experienced staff arrives with their own grills and canopy, preparing food fresh on site using high-quality ingredients and presenting a beautifully arranged buffet.
From setup to cleanup, the team manages every detail— freeing hosts to enjoy their guests instead of managing logistics. Disposable plates, utensils, equipment, and service are all included, leaving behind nothing but satisfied guests and lasting memories.
“I RECENTLY HAD A CUSTOMER LOOKING TO BOOK US FOR HIS WEDDING,” SMITH ADDED. “HE TOLD US THAT WE HAD CATERED HIS PARENTS’ WEDDING, HIS FIRST BIRTHDAY, AND HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION.”
And despite its outdoor roots, the company operates year-round and also offers traditional catering.
“In October we feature an Oktoberfest menu and Thanksgiving and Christmas are also big,” he explained.
Seasonal celebrations stay front and center. As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, Smith is preparing menus featuring everything but the Guinness—corned beef and cabbage, fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie, and more.
An all-occasion caterer, American BBQ has served weddings, graduations, christenings, corporate events, school functions, and celebrations of life— adapting menus, scale, and service style to suit each gathering.
“There was a memorable event a few years ago—a reunion of Vietnam Veteran fighter pilots."
The company has even bridged generations.
“I recently had a customer looking to book us for his wedding,” he said. “He told us that we had catered his parents’ wedding, his first birthday and high school graduation. [It] makes you realize that you must be doing something right.”
For Smith, longevity isn’t measured solely in years, but in the moments his food helps bring to life. From intimate backyard gatherings to large-scale celebrations, American BBQ has become part of the fabric of countless milestones— quietly present, consistently reliable, and deeply rooted in community.
As trends shift and tastes evolve, the heart of the business remains unchanged: good food, thoughtfully prepared, and shared in meaningful ways. It’s that combination of craft, care, and connection that continues to keep American BBQ relevant—one gathering, one generation, and one fire-lit celebration at a time.
AMERICAN BBQ COMPANY
Since 1996, The American BBQ Company has been creating gourmet barbecue experiences for events of every size, indoors and out, year-round. From graduations and weddings to corporate and school gatherings, the team brings the celebration directly to you with a wide range of themed menus to suit any occasion. Their experienced staff handles everything— from setting up their own grills and canopy to presenting a beautifully arranged buffet using only the finest ingredients, cooked fresh on site. Those looking to elevate their next gathering can learn more at americanbbqco.com.
“Tyler Pontier is the best and you will NOT find another realtor like him. He listens to his clients, he’s with you every step of the way, is well-connected to help meet your every need/expectation, and he keeps the information that you provide to him confidential. I recommend working with Tyler whether you want to buy, sell, or are looking for advice. He’s the whole package!” - Lan Tyler Pontier Properties work with ALL people in ALL price points with a focus on Luxury and Marketing. 374 Speedwell Ave, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 | 908-872-6343 tylerpontierproperties.com | tyler.pontier@randrealty.com
Our Merry Maids® team understands how finding time to clean the house can seem impossible these days. Our name is backed by four decades of experience in homes just like yours. With our thorough techniques and time-tested practices, we will give you more: more time to spend doing what you love and a cleaner space to come home to. merrymaids.com 973-927-9393 111 Canfield Ave A18 Randolph NJ 07869
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST
Jill Marie Kelly Gallery Reading
10 West Hanover Avenue, Suite 107, Randolph | 2:00 PM
A special gallery reading with Jill Marie Kelly will take place at SpiritHealer Wellness. Attendees can take part in an intimate setting designed to foster connection, reflection, and messages centered on remembrance and love. For tickets and more information, visit jillmariekellyllc.com/events.
MARCH 5TH
Harlem Wizards Game
Randolph High School | 7:00 PM
The world-famous Harlem Wizards bring their high-energy brand of basketball to Randolph for a fun-filled, family-friendly night of tricks, hoops, and alley-oops. The game takes place at Randolph High School, with doors opening at 6:00 PM and the game beginning at 7:00 PM. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
MARCH 6TH
St. Patrick's Day Parade of Morris County Grand Marshal Reception
The Mansion at Mountain Lakes | 6:00 PM
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee and CIE Tours will host the 2026 Grand Marshal Reception honoring Michael G. Bannon from 6:00–10:00 PM. The evening will feature Irish and American music, bagpipers, live entertainment, and Irish step dancers. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, carving and pasta stations, along with beer and wine. For more information and tickets, visit paradeday.com/reception.
MARCH 7TH
Create and Celebrate: A Women’s Market
5 E Main St Suite 13A, Denville | TBD
Kick off Women’s History Month by celebrating and supporting Art Classes with Mary Shadbolt and other local, female-owned businesses. Join the community for a creative afternoon featuring activities curated by local businesses such as Ribbon + Bloom Co., food by The Fig & Zaytoun, and more local partners throughout the afternoon. For event details and updates, follow Denville City Lifestyle on social media.
MARCH 7TH
Riverview PTA Tricky Tray
Morris Catholic High School, Denville | 5:00 PM
Take a walk on the wild side at the Riverview PTA’s safari-themed Tricky Tray! Join in on an exciting evening filled with chances to win and great company. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress in their boldest and wildest animal prints. Please note, ticket drop closes promptly at 7:00 PM. This event is 21+ only.
MARCH 14TH
The Great Big Book Swap
Liquid Church, Parsippany | 11:00 AM
The Great Big Book Swap returns with an expanded lineup of vendors, local authors, and plenty of book-swap opportunities. Guests are invited to browse, exchange, and discover new reads while connecting with fellow book lovers. Designed to inspire readers of all ages, the event offers a welcoming celebration of community, storytelling, and a shared love for reading.
MARCH 21ST
Eggstravaganza!
100 Calais Rd, Randolph | 12:00 PM
Eggstravaganza invites families to enjoy a festive spring celebration for just $5 per child. The event features bunny selfies, food trucks, and plenty of seasonal fun. The first session is thoughtfully designed for neurodivergent children and their families. Open to non-residents, this popular event fills quickly—early registration is encouraged. For more information, visit randolphnj.org
MARCH 22ND
Rockaway Township Annual Seniors' Prom
White Meadow Lake Country Club | 2:00 PM
Rockaway Township will host its inaugural Seniors' Prom, offering an evening of dinner, dancing, and nostalgia. The celebration features a DJ and classic tunes for a memorable night. For tickets and more information, visit rockawaytownship.org.
MARCH 29TH
2026 Morris County Empanada Run
Central Park of Morris County (Greystone) | 9:30 AM
Lace up for the 2026 Morris County Empanada Run, presented by Live Run Give! Runners can choose between a 5K or 10K, with each registration including a finisher medal, long-sleeved shirt, and a delicious empanada. The course offers a fun challenge with mixed terrain—featuring dirt, grass, gravel, and rolling hills. For details and registration, visit runsignup.com.
Want to be featured?
Mohamed K. Ahmed, Esq. Owner and Managing Attorney
Bookcase Styling your
Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase.
Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.
Step 1
Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements.
When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.
Step 2
Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements.
Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.
Step 3
Create Zones and Add Personal Touches.
If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.
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