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The Style Issue S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Real Life, Real Style

September 2026 PUBLISHER

September always feels like a fresh start. The calendar may say we have a few weeks of summer, but cooler mornings, back-to-school schedules and familiar routines bring a sense of normalcy. In our house, September means finding missing dance shoes, coordinating calendars and wondering how, despite buying new clothes all summer long, my girls seemingly have “nothing to wear” to school. That makes this month’s Style Issue fitting. Style is personal, and it extends far beyond fashion. It can be found in the way we dress, decorate our homes, organize our days and prepare meals that bring people together. The best kind of style is not about following every trend—it is about discovering what feels authentic, practical and your own. Turn to page 10 for “Effortless Everyday Style,” featuring co-owner Kim Campfield-Hazen of Hazel Boutique. Their collections balance elevated basics, timeless pieces and current details to create wardrobes that work for real life. Their philosophy is a reminder that fashion should not feel intimidating or disposable. It should help you feel comfortable, confident and ready for whatever the day brings. That same confidence can shape more than what we wear. It can influence how we carry ourselves, pursue opportunities and step into the spotlight. On page 26, “From Jersey to Center Stage” introduces Regene Seven Odon of Neptune, who spent months touring the country with the Tony Award-winning musical “Kimberly Akimbo.” From childhood singing competitions to television roles and the national stage, Odon’s journey reflects talent, persistence and the courage to keep going after rejection. For style in the kitchen, turn to page 18 for “The Culinary Magic of Peaches.” Chef David Burke celebrates one of the season’s sweetest ingredients with a recipe featuring grilled pork chops, peaches, plums and bacon. It is a combination that may inspire a late-summer dinner. We are also excited to share our September Readers’ Choice: Style Edition. Chosen entirely by reader vote, this month’s honorees represent the local boutiques, organizers and design professionals our community trusts to bring confidence, creativity and function into everyday life. Follow @greaterlongbranchcitylifestyle for more local favorites, community highlights and upcoming Readers’ Choice categories. We hope this issue encourages you to embrace your own style—whether that means refreshing your closet, stepping outside your comfort zone, trying a new recipe or simply choosing what makes life feel a little more like you.

T I F FA N Y & JA K E S LOW I N S K I , P U B L I S H E R S @ G R E AT E R L O N G B R A N C H C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R S

Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Brooke Boyer | brooke.boyer@citylifestyle.com INTERNS

Lindsey Venezia, Georgia Kissel CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Patti Zielinski, David Burke C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Kartheek Photography, Nev Photography, Arceo Photo, Jay Patel, David Burke Hospitality Management

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Greater Long Branch City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Greater Long Branch area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect

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Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Greater Long Branch City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

10 Featured

14 22

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Effortless Everyday Style

Discover how Hazel Boutique helps women build versatile wardrobes with effortless, timeless style and confidence.

Stand Tall, Dress Well

How posture shapes confidence, movement, wellness, and lasting first impressions every day.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

Expert Help HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Local Limelight LOCAL SERVICES

Must See ENTERTAINMENT

How To STYLE + BEAUTY

Events

Local’s Choice LOCAL SERVICES

Clean Cars, Strong Connections How Glow Express Car Wash combines speed, service and community to stand apart.

On the Cover Store manager Eva Lanteri showcases Hazel Boutique’s effortless style. The boutique offers a fresh take on everyday fashion with versatile, timeless pieces that build confidence and celebrate personal style. Photography: Jay Patel

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

CITY OF LONG BRANCH

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TINY TWOS

1: Visitors engaging with artwork during the opening reception for La Piscine at Amelchenko Gallery. 2: The City of Long Branch unveiled new beach cleanup stations, encouraging residents and visitors to help keep beaches clean. 3: Artemis Select team members took on the Red Bank 5K and enjoyed the community event. 4: Spotted Abby Rarig, Tara Amelchenko, and a collector celebrating the acquisition of Rarig’s work at “La Piscine” opening reception. 5: Glow Express Car Wash celebrated Brian of Long Branch as Employee of the Month for June. 6—7: The kids of Tiny Twos enjoyed a day of fun and adventure at Just Play Indoor Playground.

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C I T Y SC E N E

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/GRE ATE RLO N G BR A N C H

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY PATEL

EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY STYLE

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

DISCOVER HOW HA ZEL BOUTIQUE HELPS WOMEN BUILD V E R S AT I L E W A R D R O B E S W I T H E F F O R T L E S S S T Y L E , T I M E L E S S P I E C E S AND CONFIDENCE FOR EVERY SEASON AND OCCASION.

A shopper getting her purchase

Fashion trends may come and go, but the best wardrobes are built on pieces that make everyday life feel effortless. At Hazel Boutique in Belmar, that philosophy has transformed a hometown shop into a beloved fashion destination where confidence matters just as much as the clothes on the rack. Founded by Kim Campfield-Hazen and her sister, Jenna, Hazel Boutique has grown into a thriving brand with brick-and-mortar locations and an engaged online community. While the business has expanded over the years, its mission has remained remarkably consistent: helping women discover clothing that feels authentic, wearable and their own. For Campfield-Hazen, the ideal "Hazel girl" isn't defined by age or a specific aesthetic. Instead, she is someone who values confidence, embraces effortless style and wants a wardrobe that works for every part of her life. Whether she's heading to work, cheering from the sidelines at a football game or meeting friends for dinner, Hazel's collections are designed to transition seamlessly with her.

That versatility has become one of the boutique's defining characteristics. Rather than chasing every passing trend, Campfield-Hazen and her team carefully curate collections that balance fashion-forward details with timeless wearability. Every buying decision begins with a simple question: Will customers actually wear it? The answer has helped shape Hazel's recognizable style identity. Instead of filling the racks with short-lived trends, the boutique focuses on elevated basics, quality fabrics and thoughtfully selected statement pieces that can easily mix into an existing wardrobe. The result is clothing that feels current without becoming disposable. Campfield-Hazen believes consistency has been one of the biggest lessons in building the Hazel brand. "It's easy to get caught up in every trend," she says. "But staying true to who we are creates trust with our customers." That trust has fostered a loyal following both in-store and online. Through daily conversations on social media and CONTINUED >

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Store manager, Eva Lanteri

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

face-to-face interactions inside the boutiques, customers play an active role in shaping future collections. Their feedback helps determine everything from colors and silhouettes to the styles that return season after season. Among the biggest customer favorites are Hazel's signature sweat sets. Comfortable enough for lounging yet polished enough for errands, travel or coffee with friends, they've become a wardrobe staple for women juggling busy schedules. As summer gives way to fall, Campfield-Hazen recommends building a wardrobe around three versatile essentials: an elevated sweatshirt or matching sweat set, a great pair of denim and a lightweight jacket that layers easily over almost any outfit. Together, those foundational pieces can create countless combinations throughout the season while making getting dressed feel simple rather than stressful. For women looking to refresh their wardrobes, CampfieldHazen encourages taking small, intentional steps instead of attempting a complete makeover. Trying a new color, adding a statement accessory or experimenting with a silhouette you've admired can all be enough to spark new confidence. Fashion, she believes, should never feel intimidating.

Instead, it should help women become more comfortable expressing who they already are. That philosophy extends to the way Hazel Boutique curates every collection. As sisters and business partners, each bring their own perspective to the buying process. One may gravitate toward timeless classics while the other embraces trend-forward pieces, creating a balanced assortment that appeals to a wide variety of customers while remaining unmistakably Hazel. Looking ahead, Campfield-Hazen is excited about the boutique's continued growth but remains focused on the community that has supported the business from the beginning. For her, success isn't measured simply by opening new stores or selling more clothing. It's measured by the confidence customers gain when they walk out wearing something that genuinely feels like them. In a world of endless scrolling, fast fashion and constantly changing trends, Hazel Boutique offers something refreshingly different: a reminder that personal style isn't about keeping up with everyone else. It's about discovering what makes you feel confident, comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings. Refresh your wardrobe at hazelboutique.com.

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STAND TALL,

D r e s s We l l How posture shapes conf idence, movement, wellness, and lasting f irst impressions ever y day.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARTHEEK PHOTOGRAPHY

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Brian Mullins

Style is often defined by clothing, accessories or the latest seasonal trends. But before anyone notices a tailored blazer or a great pair of shoes, they notice something else: the way you carry yourself. At East Coast Movement Performance Institute in Ocean Township, the team believes posture may be one of the most overlooked elements of personal style. The way we stand, walk and move sends an immediate message about confidence, health, and self-care. Whether stepping into a job interview, attending a social event or simply walking down the street, posture often shapes a first impression. "People judge us by our posture and how we present ourselves," says Brian Mullins of East Coast Movement Performance Institute. "When someone carries themselves well, they appear more confident, capable, and organized." Better posture also reduces unnecessary strain on muscles and joints, helping everyday activities feel easier. From carrying groceries to playing with grandchildren, moving comfortably allows people to stay active, independent and confident throughout every stage of life. While confidence certainly comes from within, Mullins believes good posture helps project it outward. Standing tall doesn't require military precision but rather a relaxed, natural alignment that communicates strength without tension. Modern life, however, isn't doing anyone any favors. Hours spent commuting, working at a computer, scrolling on phones, or sitting at a desk gradually train the body into rounded shoulders and a slouched position. Over time, those habits weaken the muscles responsible for supporting the spine, making good posture increasingly difficult to maintain. One of Mullins' favorite posture tests happens during the daily commute. Adjust your car mirrors while sitting with proper posture before leaving home. If you find yourself needing to reposition them during the drive, the mirrors didn't move—you did. "It's a simple external cue that reminds you you've started slouching," he says. Fortunately, improving posture doesn't require an expensive fitness routine. Small habits practiced consistently can make a significant difference. Opening the chest with doorway stretches, strengthening the muscles that support the shoulders and spine, and simply becoming more aware of how you sit and stand helps immensely. CONTINUED >

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“A s we a g e , g r av i t y i s a l w ay s p u l l i n g u s d ow n . T h e wo r k we d o n ow d e t e r m i n e s h ow we l l we ’ l l m ove ye a r s f r o m t o d ay.” — B r i a n Mullins

Good posture offers benefits beyond appearance. Proper alignment supports breathing, improves mobility and allows the body to move more efficiently. It also lays the foundation for long-term wellness. "As we age, gravity is always pulling us down," Mullins explains. "The work we do now determines how well we'll move years from today." That philosophy extends beyond posture alone. Mullins encourages people to think of fitness not as a temporary goal but as an investment in longevity. Walking is excellent for cardiovascular health, but maintaining strength requires resistance training as well. Strong muscles help preserve balance, mobility, and independence as the years go on. Even footwear plays a role. While fashion trends constantly evolve, supportive shoes remain one of the smartest investments people can make for their bodies. High heels may create an elegant silhouette, but wearing them exclusively for years can contribute to shortened calf muscles and foot problems. The goal isn't avoiding fashionable shoes altogether—it's finding balance. Good movement begins with consistency, not perfection. Small daily choices—taking the stairs, stretching between meetings, standing up regularly and strengthening key muscle groups—can add up to noticeable improvements in posture, comfort, and confidence. Looking ahead to fall, Mullins encourages readers to find a form of exercise they genuinely enjoy. Whether it's yoga, strength training, cycling, pickleball or long walks, consistency matters far more than chasing the latest fitness trend. "If you don't enjoy it, you're probably not going to stick with it," he says. Ultimately, style isn't just about what fills a closet. It's about how someone presents themselves to the world. Clothing may complete the look, but posture, movement, and confidence create the lasting impression. Ready to improve the way you move and feel? Learn more about personalized physical therapy and performance care at eastcoastmpi.com.

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

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T H E CU L I NA RY M AGIC OF PE ACH E S Chef David Burke brings a playful, modern twist to the smoky magic of peaches

One of my favorite things about this time of year is the abundance of peaches, which are at their prime from July through September. At their peak, their flavor, texture and aroma create a sensory experience, while their balance of sweetness and acidity brings any dish to life. Bottom line: Peaches have a magic all their own.

Peaches have an origin story that stretches back to China more than 4,000 years ago. They journeyed west on the Silk Road to Persia and then on to the Mediterranean world. There, they were embraced by the Romans who planted peach orchards across their empire, helping the fruit take root in Europe. By the Middle Ages, peaches were well established in Europe.

RECIPE BY CHEF DAVID BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BURKE HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

GRILLED PORK CHOPS WITH PE ACHE S, PLUMS AND BACON

It was Spanish explorers who introduced peaches to the Americas in the 16th century. Indigenous peoples quickly adopted and cultivated them, integrating peaches into their agricultural traditions long before widespread European settlement. Two centuries later, peaches were thriving across the United States, becoming especially associated with the South. Georgia made the peach its state symbol, although South Carolina’s annual peach production is often larger. Today, peaches are grown worldwide—from China (still the largest producer) to Italy, Spain, Turkey and the United States. The standout aspect of peaches is the contrast they embody: firm yet yielding, sweet yet tart, floral yet earthy. That’s what makes them so versatile in the kitchen, playing nicely with savory and sweet ingredients. When raw, peaches resonate with freshness and perfume. When cooked, they deepen, caramelize, and develop a richer, almost honeyed complexity. Their high water content means they break down nicely in heat, creating natural sauces and syrups without much intervention. The following recipe showcases all the characteristics of cooked peaches. Swordfish steaks can be substituted for the pork chops.

Ingredients • • • • •

2 pork chops 1/2 cup shallots, slivered 1 peach, cored and thickly sliced 1 plum, cored and thickly sliced 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• • • • • •

1/4 cup honey 2 tbsp. barbecue sauce 4 slices bacon, cooked and roughly chopped 1/2 cup scallions, roughly chopped 1/2 cup butter Sea salt

Method

• After patting dry, season the pork chops with olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste. On a grill or in a grill pan over medium-high heat, sear for 5 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 125 degrees for medium and 155 degrees for well-done. • Meanwhile, in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the peaches, plums, honey and butter for 5 minutes undisturbed to caramelize the fruit. Then flip the fruit and add the shallots. Sauté for another 3 to 5 minutes until the shallots are just taking on some color and the fruit has caramelized on the other side. • Add the scallions and bacon last and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well. Bring to a simmer. • Place the pork chops in the center of the plates. Arrange the peaches and plums attractively around the pork. • Serve immediately with warmed firecracker peach sauce, which is great with grilled shrimp, too.

CONTINUED >

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FIRECR ACKE R PE ACH SAUCE Ingredients • • • • • • • •

6 cups peaches, chopped 2 cups peaches, peeled and finely diced 1 cup seedless serrano chilies, chopped 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1 bay leaf 1 clove 1/2-inch cinnamon stick 1/2 tsp. coarse salt

Method

• Combine the chopped peaches, chilies, vinegar, salt, clove, bay leaf and cinnamon stick in a large, heavyduty saucepan over medium heat. • Cook, stirring frequently, for about 15 minutes or until the peaches are falling apart and the mixture has reduced by half. • Remove from the heat and cool. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the diced peaches and pour into a nonreactive container. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

About Chef David Burke

Brooklyn-born chef and restaurateur David Burke, who was raised in and continues to live in New Jersey, is known for playful, precision-driven modern American cooking and elevated comfort classics. His restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, including Red Horse by David Burke in Rumson. To learn more, explore his restaurants, or get in touch, visit chefdavidburke.com and follow his culinary adventures on Instagram @chefdavidburke.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K

YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N FOR LOCAL LIVING

SHOP LOCAL S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/GRE ATE RLO N G BR A N C H

CLEAN CARS, STRONG CONNECTIONS

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEV PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LO CAL SE RVICE S

HOW GLOW EXPRESS CAR WASH COMBINES SPEED, SERVICE AND COMMUNITY TO STAND APART.

For many people, a car wash is simply another errand—a quick stop between work, school pickup and weekend plans. But for Michael Roberts, head of multi-site operations at Glow Car Wash, the experience is about much more than clean vehicles. It's about creating meaningful connections, building community and making customers feel valued long after they leave the wash tunnel. Roberts oversees Glow Car Wash's four New Jersey locations in Long Branch, Neptune, Edison and Old Bridge with a focus on frontline execution, team leadership and delivering an outstanding customer experience. While he has spent the last six years in the car wash industry, his career path began elsewhere. Originally from Ohio, Roberts worked his way up through the cellular phone industry, eventually managing multiple locations as a district manager before transitioning to the car wash business. After several years in Ohio, a recruiting opportunity brought him to New Jersey in 2023. Although the move took him away from familiar hometown favorites and Cincinnati sports teams, it also opened the door to a new chapter focused on operational leadership and customer experience. Today, Roberts brings years of multi-unit management experience to Glow, where he leads teams across multiple locations while helping shape the company's culture and growth strategy. At the heart of Glow's mission is a simple philosophy: presentation matters. "When people think about style, they often think about clothing or fashion," Roberts says. "For vehicles, style starts with cleanliness." Regardless of a vehicle's age, make or model, Roberts believes a clean car reflects pride, care and attention to detail. It's one of the primary reasons customers continue returning to Glow. That focus on presentation is supported by a modern express wash model designed around both speed and quality. Customers can move through the wash process in just a few minutes before taking CONTINUED >

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advantage of complimentary vacuums and other self-service amenities. Glow's teams follow detailed daily maintenance schedules that include cleaning and inspecting equipment throughout the wash tunnel. "Hundreds of cars go through every day," he explains. "If you're not maintaining the equipment, the quality of the wash suffers." The company pairs that operational discipline with advanced wash technology, biodegradable soaps and polishes, water-recycling systems and soft foam materials designed to safely clean vehicles while minimizing environmental impact. Glow recycles approximately 85% of the water used in its washes and uses nontoxic cleaning products throughout its facilities. Yet when Roberts talks about what truly separates Glow from competitors, he rarely mentions equipment. Instead, he talks about people. "Our people are what set us apart," he says. That customer-first mentality is visible in the small touches Glow incorporates throughout the year. During colder months, team members have surprised customers with complimentary hot chocolate. Around Easter, Glow locations distributed thousands of candy-filled eggs, including special prizes such as free washes. "We want people to come in and think, 'I've never experienced this at another car wash before,'" he says. Roberts regularly sees customers who know team members by name and employees who have built genuine relationships with the communities they serve. Some loyal customers even stop by with snacks, water or small gifts for staff members during busy seasons. "That's when you know you're doing something right," Roberts says. "People feel connected to the team." That sense of connection also drives Glow's membership program. While unlimited wash plans provide convenience and savings, Roberts believes the real value comes from helping customers understand how frequently maintaining their vehicle can protect and preserve an important investment. Rather than focusing solely on sales, Glow team members spend time educating customers about their options and helping them determine which membership best fits their needs. "We're not selling just to sell," Roberts says. "We're educating customers and helping them see the value." The company's emphasis on consistency extends beyond customer service. Branding, site layouts and operational processes are carefully designed to create a seamless experience across all locations. Whether customers visit Edison, Old Bridge, Long Branch or Neptune, they can expect the same welcoming atmosphere and commitment to service. As Glow continues to grow, Roberts believes the company's smaller size remains one of its greatest strengths. Unlike larger chains with dozens of locations, Glow maintains a close-knit, family-oriented culture that allows teams to build stronger relationships with both employees and customers. For Roberts, success ultimately comes down to creating positive interactions—whether through a spotless vehicle, a friendly conversation or an unexpected gesture that brightens someone's day. "The more you make customers feel valued," he says, "the more they'll want to come back." In an industry often viewed as transactional, Glow Car Wash is proving that exceptional service isn't just about clean cars. It's about creating experiences that leave communities shining, too. Visit GlowCarWash.com to learn more.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LO CAL SE RVICE S

Michael Roberts

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FROM JERSEY TO CENTER STAGE

Since September 2024, Regene Seven Odon of Neptune has been traveling the country on the national tour of Kimberly Akimbo, the critically acclaimed Broadway show that follows a teenage girl with a rare, rapid-aging disease as she navigates her dysfunctional family and New Jersey high school. The show won five Tony Awards, including best musical. City Lifestyle caught up with Odon on the road to talk about his artistic journey, his Monmouth County roots and his unique name. How long have you been performing? Both my mom’s and dad’s sides of the family introduced me to art and music at a young age, and I loved them. When my mom realized I wanted to sing on stage, she entered me in competitions in the Philippines, where I lived as a child. I continued competing after moving to Ocean Township at about age 7. I joined Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater in New York and local competitions in Monmouth County, including Freehold Idol.

M UST SE E | ENTERTAI NME N T

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARCEO PHOTO, CHELSEA LAUREN, REGENE ODON

REGENE SEVEN ODON’S JOURNEY FROM LOCAL TALENT TO NATIONAL TOUR LIFE IN KIMBERLY AKIMBO PROVES PASSION—AND PERSISTENCE— CAN TAKE YOU ANYWHERE

Tell us about your big break with Kimberly Akimbo. I auditioned for the tour in 2024. At the end of July, I had just arrived in upstate New York for a two-week contract when my agent called to say I was cast as an understudy for Seth, Aaron and Martin. I finished that show in early August, and rehearsals for Kimberly Akimbo began the following week. I left my 9-to-5 job and was on the road by September. What was it like to tour nationally? I was nervous at first, but tour veterans gave me great advice. It turned out to be an incredible experience. I visited places on my bucket list and explored each city along the way. If I’m somewhere new, I want to see everything. That keeps my energy up. Your name has a special meaning. Yes. “Regene” comes from combining my grandfathers’ names, Renato and Generoso. “Seven” reflects that I was born in 1997 and am the seventh grandchild on both sides of my family. What makes you most proud? There was a time I considered doing something else because of constant rejection. When I auditioned for “Kimmy,” I told myself I would try one more time. Now, I see those “no’s” as redirection. That’s what I’m most proud of. What are you looking forward to after the tour? The tour ended in May, so I’m excited to be home with family and friends and spend the summer in New Jersey. And I have to shout out JJ Delicacies in Red Bank. I’ve tried poke bowls across the country, and nothing compares. A funny fact: I didn’t know what musical theater was until I moved to the United States. When I saw my first show, I was absolutely enthralled. I felt in my heart that it was something I wanted to do. Now I’m doing it for a living, and that’s really cool.

What’s next? I’m heading back into auditions. This show was such a great experience, and I’m excited for what’s next. Follow Odon on Instagram at @regeneodon.

How did you develop your “triple threat” skills? I trained in acting and voice with Theresa Pittius, owner of The Prep in Little Silver. She taught me to bring myself to each role and never forget where I came from. Although I have no formal dance training, I took lessons at Project Dance in Eatontown. How did you launch your professional career? In 2020, I signed with Take 3 Talent Agency in New York City. They sent me on auditions for TV, film, theater and commercials. I appeared in two episodes of City on a Hill, starring Kevin Bacon, and filmed a commercial for Facetune in Ukraine in 2022.

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Wear Colors That Truly

LOVE YOU A quick guide to finding flattering shades for life.

KNOW YOUR UNDERTONE Your undertone doesn’t change with the seasons. Check your wrist veins: blue means cool, green means warm, and unclear may be neutral. Cool tones love jewel colors; warm tones glow in earthy, rich shades.

CONSIDER CONTRAST Do you have high contrast between your hair, skin, and eyes (like dark hair and light skin)? High contrast looks great in bold, clear colors. Low contrast (like blonde hair and fair skin)? Softer, blended tones often suit you best.

THE WHITE VS. CREAM TEST Hold a white and ivory shirt near your face. If white flatters, you're likely cooltoned. If ivory glows against your skin, you're likely warm-toned. This quick test reveals your undertone with ease.

BUILD AROUND YOUR “WOW” COLORS Once you identify a few colors that make you look and feel amazing, use those as the base of your palette. These are your power colors—build your wardrobe and makeup around them!

PRO TIP You don’t have to follow rules perfectly. Your color palette is a guide, not a limit. Mix, match, and most importantly—wear what makes you feel beautiful.

H OW TO | STYL E + BEAUT Y

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S SEPTEMBER 4 TH

Candlelight: 90s Unplugged Pollak Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch, NJ 07764 | 8:30 PM Under the gentle glow of thousands of candles, the Concertize String Quartet performs a classical, multisensory tribute reimagining iconic 1990s hits by Nirvana, Oasis, Foo Fighters and the Cranberries. Tickets start at $30.50. Reserve your spot at feverup.com. SEPTEMBER 6TH

Art in the Park West End Park, Brighton Ave., Long Branch, NJ 07740 | 10:00 AM The City of Long Branch presents its signature outdoor fine art festival on Labor Day weekend, transforming the park into an open-air gallery showcasing regional painters, sculptors, jewelers and local craft creators. View event details at longbranch.org. SEPTEMBER 6TH

BBQ & Craft Beer Festival Monmouth Park Racetrack, 175 Oceanport Ave., Oceanport, NJ 07757 | 11:00 AM Celebrate Labor Day weekend with a delicious three-day festival featuring over 40 local craft beers, nearly 20 regional pitmasters, live musical performances and free family-friendly activities. General admission is $7; children 12 and younger enter free. Learn more at monmouthpark.com.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ G R E AT E R L O N G B R A N C H

EVE N TS

S E P T E M BE R 6T H

Dog Carnival The Whitechapel Projects, 15 2nd Ave., Long Branch, NJ 07740 | 12:00 PM This festive, dog-friendly extravaganza presented by Doggie Sweets kicks off with carnival-themed photo booths at their Pier Village storefront before moving to the brewery for a lively afternoon of interactive games, activities and pup socialization. View event details at doggiesweets.com or eventbrite.com. S E P T E M BE R 1 4 T H

Exhibition on Screen: Degas—Passion for Perfection Pollak Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch, NJ 07764 | 7:00 PM This highly detailed documentary journeys from the streets of Paris to a premier exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum to explore the obsessive genius of French master Edgar Degas. Tickets are $23 for adults, $21 for seniors, $10 for children and $5 for Monmouth University students. Tickets and information at monmouth.edu. S E P T E M BE R 1 9 T H – 2 0TH

Sea.Hear.Now Festival North Beach Asbury Park, 1300 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, NJ 07712 This premier beachside festival merges world-class live rock, a professional team surf contest and immersive art galleries along the waterfront. Headliners include The Strokes, the Goo Goo Dolls and Moby. Ticket prices vary by tier. View event details at seahearnowfestival.com.

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STYLE EDITION—SEPTEMBER 2026 Style is woven into the way we present ourselves and the spaces we call home. From carefully selected wardrobes to thoughtfully organized interiors, this month’s Readers’ Choice: Style Edition highlights the Greater Long Branch businesses helping residents create spaces and looks that feel intentional, functional and personal. Chosen entirely by readers’ votes, these winners represent the local experts and creative professionals residents trust for design, organization and everyday inspiration. With that, we’re proud to announce the September 2026 Readers’ Choice winners for Greater Long Branch City Lifestyle.

E L E VAT I N G T H E E V E R Y DAY

Greater Long Branch Readers’ Choice winners celebrate the businesses that help residents bring intention and personality into their daily lives. From fashion-forward finds to beautifully organized homes, these local professionals make it easier to create spaces and styles that feel truly personal.

BEST BOUTIQUE Cabana 19 Cabana 19 stood out for its unique selection and welcoming shopping experience, giving customers access to carefully chosen styles and standout pieces. cabana19redbank.com | (732) 842-2138

B E S T C U S T O M C L O S E T C O M PA N Y Decorator’s Choice Closets Personalized designs and smart storage solutions helped Decorator’s Choice Closets earn recognition for creating organized spaces tailored to each home. @decoratorschoicepc | (609)516-2296

BEST HOME ORGANIZER Orderleigh Home Orderleigh Home helps homeowners create more functional, peaceful spaces through thoughtful organization and customized systems designed around everyday needs. orderleighhome.com | (201) 406-5919

ARTICLE BY GREATER LONG BRANCH CITY LIFESTYLE

LOCA L’S CH OICE | LO CAL SE RVICE S

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