Media, PA May 2026

LIFE + CULTURE

MEDIA'S WOMEN

ENTREPRENEURS

MEAN BUSINESS

HOME + DESIGN

IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT PAINT

ARTS + CULTURE

GIRLS JUST WANNA GO ON VACATION

STYLE + BEAUTY

FROM SIDE HUSTLE TO STYLE EMPIRE

Your Garage Door

We’re excited to announce that is now — Suburban Overhead Doors Looking Up Gar a ge Door s your trusted local garage door experts for over 40 years. Founded by my Uncle Tom Muir in 1985, (Our new logo is a fun sketch of Tom, maybe you’ve seen him around!) we have been right here in Media all along, bringing high quality service across the tri-state area! Since I joined Uncle Tom almost 15 years ago, we have developed into a family focused, growing business! With a 5-star rating on Google, Uncle Tom and I and the team are excited to meet you and give you excellent service that you can trust! We’re simply taking our reputation for quality to the next level. Things are truly “Looking Up,” and we can’t wait to show you.

With joy, Destin Mahalik - Owner & President Looking Up Garage Doors

“Best experience with a contractor in years! Delivered exactly what was promised, were very clean, left no marks, and a reasonable price.” - Dave S.

May...A Celebration of Her

After a few false starts in April, May has finally arrived, bringing the true essence of Spring with it. For many of us, this is the best time of year. I’ve already been out in the yard—power washing the deck, dusting off the grill, and prepping the patio furniture. My wife, our Editor, plants annuals every year. With Memorial Day just around the corner, I can’t help but feel that "Life is Good."

But May is about more than just blooming gardens; it’s a celebration of the women who raised us. My own mother was a true "Steel Magnolia." Raised on a Southern farm and seasoned by years in the textile mills, she and my father raised three fairly respectable kids. Thanks to her (and a few Home Economics classes), I grew up knowing how to bake, do my own laundry, and sew a button—skills my wife is still very grateful for today!

In honor of strong women like my mom, this issue shines a spotlight on the female entrepreneurs driving our community forward. These women come from diverse backgrounds and industries, yet they all exemplify the talent and grit it takes to build a business. To support those looking to follow in their footsteps, we’ve also highlighted how the SBA supports women-owned businesses and how budding owners can turn their dreams into reality.

If you’re looking for a getaway, our local friend and travel expert, Emily Zietowski of Sojourney Travel, shares three inspiring destinations perfect for a "gal pals" retreat. We also caught up with Becky Hillyard, the designer behind the popular life and style blog Cella Jane. Over the last eight years, Becky has grown her platform from a passion project into a powerhouse, collaborating with iconic brands like Nike and Kate Spade.

One of my favorite parts of being a publisher is championing Media’s women. While it’s always important to shop local, this month is the perfect time to intentionally patronize the women-owned businesses in our neighborhood.

I hope you’ll take a moment this month to reach out to the women in your life who deserve recognition. A simple word of appreciation goes a long way in reminding them how much they are loved and respected. And while you're at it, don't forget to support DELCO Gives this month!

See you on State Street!

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Scott Davidson | scott.davidson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Karin Davidson | karin.davidson@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Stephanie Hwang

stephanie.hwang@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Emily Zietowski

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Stephanie Hwang

SCOTT DAVIDSON, PUBLISHER @MEDIACITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Tsales@sunshinejewelryinc.com 484- 442-8577 |

Best in Class For Over 30 Years

“If you are looking for trustworthy, efficient and professional contractors, The Tradesmen is it! Working in real estate we are constantly referring clients for various repairs, upgrades and improvements – Chris and his team are our go-to guys! Their reliability and top notch customer ser vice sets them apart from anyone else we have used or recommended. Make them your first call the next time you’re in need of contracting ser vices.”

Kaylin Kriznuski, Media

PA

Christopher D. Chelo, Sr Managing Member/President

2026

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN MAY

city scene

1: Players check out the raffle baskets at the 1st Annual Rotary Club of Media Bingo 2: Happy bingo player shows off her winning card 3: Over 100 players pack the Rocky Run YMCA for 1st Annual Rotary bingo 4: Rotarian and City Lifestyle publisher, Scott Davidson, MC’s the event with Rotarian Monika Collins 5: Bingo Gals (back row L-R) Jen Palandro, Kelly Good, and Katie Karasek. (front row L-R) JoAnne Shaflucas and Rotarian Monika Collins 6: Enthusiastic bingo winner shows off her prize 7: Media Rotarian Daniel Carbery and his wife Shelly officiate the games.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

This year, maybe you want to learn about...

Robert J. Spennato, DMD, Daniel P. Tibbetts, DMD, Jarred E. Gettes, DMD, Stephanie Haldy Kelly, DMD, Alexa N. Spennato, DMD, and Conor B. Campbell, DMD are proud to provide dental care upheld to the highest standards of excellence

business monthly

Skyhawks Sports Launches Spring & Summer Programs

Skyhawks Sports and SuperTots are offering Golf, Volleyball, Multi-Sport, Baseball, and Soccer programs for ages 2–14 in Upper Providence Township. Classes focus on athletic fundamentals paired with life skills like respect, teamwork, and communication. With limited class sizes, families are encouraged to register early for spring sessions and summer camps designed to build confidence through fun, safe, skill-building experiences. skyhawks.com/delaware-valley-pa

Elwyn Breaks Ground on New School in Middletown

Elwyn has begun construction on a new $47 million school as part of its 10-year, $100 million Master Campus Plan. The project will expand capacity, enhance specialized services, and support students with developmental and behavioral health needs through two curriculum tracks and a new transition center. The school is expected to open in fall 2027, continuing Elwyn’s 173-year mission of empowering individuals and families. elwyn.org

Shevlin Family Foundation Opens in Media

Since 2015, the Delaware County-based Shevlin Family Foundation has empowered those battling Substance Use Disorder. This community non-profit provides essential education and support, helping individuals champion their own recovery journeys. To date, over 3,000 people have found hope through the foundation. Impactful services include housing scholarships, transportation assistance, and grants for food and clothing. Through its signature Journey program, the foundation continues to uplift families and build stronger, healthier communities. shevlinhelps.org

The Professional Design Advantage

Transform your space with expert guidance that saves time, maximizes style, and enhances daily life

ARTICLE BY KARIN DAVIDSON AND DIANA GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL ISAYEFF AND DOMINIKA CHANC

What are the benefits of using an interior designer?

Hiring an interior designer brings professional expertise, saves time, prevents costly mistakes, and ensures a cohesive, efficient, and functional space by managing design decisions, sourcing materials, and coordinating every detail from concept through installation.

What do clients need to focus on before beginning the project?

Establishing a general cap for a budget with a buffer helps the designer create realistic goals.

What is important when choosing the right designer?

A client should prioritize a designer whose communication style and personality mesh with their own, ensuring they are someone who can both advocate for your vision and provide honest, expert pushback when necessary. While this is true for residential design, commercial design is about brand identity, ROI, and public safety. You are hiring a strategist who understands how a physical space can drive revenue and meet strict legal requirements.

What is a surprising focus that the client often forgets?

A cohesive design takes planning and time. I have worked with fast timelines before with homeowners  and turned restaurants around in 3–5 months, but I find it becomes more expensive doing this. When we can appropriately plan for spaces to be redone, commercial or residential, that is where the magic really happens. Many people assume I only pick paint colors or pillows, but interior design is truly a layered process with a high amount of communication and coordination with trades and vendors.

Please explain your process

The process begins with a discovery consultation where we learn about the client’s vision, goals, budget, and how the space will function. From there, we move into concept design, developing the creative direction through mood boards, inspiration, and preliminary layouts. Once approved, we move into design development by finalizing layouts, selecting finishes, lighting, and furnishings. The project then moves into construction documentation, where we produce drawing sets and specifications that guide contractors and vendors. As a full-service studio, we also manage procurement, coordinating vendors, ordering furnishings and materials, and tracking deliveries. Finally, during installation, we oversee furniture placement and styling to ensure every detail aligns with the original design vision.

CONTINUED >

Why did you get into Interior Design?

My love for hospitality started early. Growing up, our family vacations to Florida, Disney, Cape May, and Arizona were highlights for me, but not just for the destinations—I loved exploring the hotels and taking pictures of every detail. The idea that a space can provide a family with lifelong memories is still so special to me. I find it incredibly endearing that a restaurant serves as the backdrop for life’s big moments. Alongside this passion for hospitality, I was the kid constantly rearranging my room, obsessed with the puzzle of a floor plan. I’ve always been artistic; I even have a floor plan from 1997 that I drew up in Microsoft Word.

What have clients said to you about their finished space and how does that make you feel?

It came full circle for me when I hired a photographer (Daniel Isayef) for the images here, and a hotel I designed at a previous firm. He was one of the first three to book their wedding at the hotel based off renderings. He told me how much they loved it, and it made me so happy they picked this hotel to celebrate with their family and friends.

ABOUT DIANA GRAHAM

Diana holds a Master of Interior Architecture & Design from Drexel University. Creative, driven, and curious, Diana Graham is an interior designer who loves blending art, architecture, and everyday life. In 2025, she launched her own design business. She finds inspiration in travel, culture, and design, and values thoughtful spaces with personality. studio253id.com

Women Entrepreneurs Get Down to Business in Media

Eva Winters Johnson (1918–2004) was a trailblazing African American entrepreneur whose determination and vision helped shape the business landscape of Media, Pennsylvania. She launched her first venture with a single $25 truck, building it into a successful moving and storage company. From there, she expanded boldly into real estate—purchasing, renovating, and

constructing properties throughout the community. Her portfolio grew to include a three - story home at 496 Washington Avenue, the Winchester Apartments, multiple rental properties, and the transformation of her own residence at 219 Manchester Avenue into six rental units and a business office. She was also a community leader with the NAACP and Media Fellowship House. Eva was honored for her lifetime contributions to the community in the 1990s.

In a profile by Wuanda M. T. Walls titled “Working World/Essence Women,” Eva reflected on her journey, “‘I didn’t have the least idea when I started this business that I would ever be where I am today – a millionaire or half millionaire.’ admits Eva Winters, an entrepreneur in both the moving and storage and real estate businesses. ‘But I knew that I would have to work hard to achieve my goals. It has not been easy.’”

In this article, we share the stores of six of Media’s Women-Owned Business Entrepreneurs.

Celebrating the vision, resilience, and impact of women shaping the future of entrepreneurship

ARTICLE BY KARIN DAVIDSON

A major challenge she faced was finding direction and balance after the loss of her father in 2015. “It impacted me deeply and forced me to reflect on how short life truly is,” shares Jane. Baking and event planning had always been her passions, and that moment pushed her to finally start her business. The journey wasn’t easy, “I struggled trying to figure out how to build a business from the ground up and balance work, life, and family. With the support of my family and friends, I learned to trust myself, stay focused on my goals, and grow through each challenge.”

It’s been incredibly rewarding for Jane to see the business become recognized not only for her baked goods, but also for her involvement in community events and service, “Watching my work bring joy, create connections, and contribute to my community reminds me why I started and why I keep going. I love seeing how something I created from passion can bring such happiness to others.”

Lisa started Glimmer as a small creative outlet when her dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer. “Never would I have thought I’d be able to pursue my dream of owning a store.” That crisis became a turning point, but it was her daughters— and the future she wanted for them—that kept her moving forward. Her mom’s unwavering hope and positivity also shaped the journey. She always managed to see the “glimmer” in everything and encouraged Lisa to trust life’s nudges and timing.

Was she prepared? Lisa laughs, “Absolutely not! I definitely subscribe to a ‘build the plane as we fly it’ mentality. It’s important to just begin and learn along the way.” She’s constantly tinkering, improving, and trying new ideas. Lisa is humbled by the excitement and support from customers. For her, there’s no better compliment than someone walking into the shop for the first time and feeling thrilled to discover the perfect gift or try something new.

Jennifer Eckell Donna Cusano facebook.com/LittlePeoplesConsignment TerraDonnaGardens.com

Jennifer has been dressing children for nearly 3 decades – her boutique has the cutest fashions for boys and girls plus toys, sports equipment, books, games and so much more. “My parents really supported me in doing this, they believed in me.”

Jennifer was a teacher and loves interacting with children and making them smile. “I have a great time choosing what goes in the boutique.” She adds that she has been very fortunate throughout the years for her consigners and customers making her store the way it is.  She loves the closeness to so many customers - making friends that are dear to her heart.

“I get a lot of joy with meeting new people, their stories, and customers shopping for their children here and now for their grandchildren. The town of Media was always a special place for me. It has a special sparkle in the air. And that sparkle gets bigger as time goes on.”

Donna began as a solo-preneur, with a car trunk full of tools and a somewhat “crazy” ambition to build a new business where she could combine her artistic talents with her love for the natural world and regenerative land management. It worked. “We are attracting like-minded team members who want the same for themselves; creative opportunity and do the right thing for the planet.” Donna is noticing that the majority of their clients really want to cultivate long term relationships - wanting ongoing ecological and regenerative care for their gardens. “It’s worth the extra time and effort it takes to really dial into what a landscape needs to be truly healthy and for client satisfaction.”

For the last 6 years, Terra Donna has grown on average 20-25% each year. As more people wake up to the challenges of climate change and want to do the right thing for nature, Donna knows that their offerings will become increasingly popular and necessary.

Laila & Aleena

Donna Billingsley

(L-R) Aleena then Laila sunshinejewelryinc.com donnabillingsley.com

One of the biggest challenges they faced was stepping into leadership while expanding their family business - balancing legacy with new ideas while navigating uncertainty and growth. Their parents came to this country from Cambodia with very little, building Sunshine Jewelry from the ground up after surviving immense hardship. “With that comes both responsibility and purpose to honor what they started.” Mindset kept them going. Challenges are inevitable, but they believe how you think determines how you move - solution-oriented, grounded in purpose, and trusting that consistency compounds. “When in doubt, we remained anchored in continuing a story that began long before us.”

They’re seeing a beautiful shift toward heirloom redesign. Clients bring in pieces that hold meaning but no longer fit their style, “Helping them transform those into something they can wear every day has been incredibly rewarding. It’s more than design; it’s preserving stories while creating something new.” As sisters continuing their family’s legacy, being part of that process feels deeply personal and fulfilling for the duo.

Donna is a professional photographer who feels fortunate to have lived and worked in the charming town of Media for the past 39 years. Her studio sits on a historic property, offering a naturally beautiful setting that provides a lovely background her work. Known for her artistic portraits and attention to detail, she strives to capture not only what is visible, but also the emotion behind each moment. Her sessions are relaxed, fun, and thoughtfully crafted. Using a variety of techniques, Donna creates images that resemble oil paintings, and she takes great pride in seeing her work displayed in her clients’ homes. Influenced by artists such as John Singer Sargent, Mary Cassatt, and Andrew Wyeth, she continues to evolve creatively.

Donna shares, “There have been many changes in the photographic industry in my almost five-decade career but I embrace change - sometimes reluctantly.” She credits her intensive two-year education at the Antonelli Institute of Photography for providing a foundation that has remained steady throughout her career.

SBA SUPPORTS

WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES

A wide range of opportunities for women looking to launch, grow, or strengthen their businesses

ARTICLE BY JIM SPENCER, SBA MID-ATLANTIC REGION

In honor of Mother’s Day, I want to take this opportunity to recognize the women innovators, risk-takers, and job creators who power our economy. I am proud to serve SBA’s Mid-Atlantic region covering Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. During my travels I see how small businesses are revitalizing communities, strengthening supply chains, and creating opportunities for hardworking families.

At the U.S. Small Business Administration, we are proud to support these entrepreneurs under the leadership of Administrator Kelly Loeffler. Together, we are focused on delivering positive, practical, and measurable outcomes for America’s small businesses. The SBA offers various funding opportunities, including loans and grants, specifically designed to support women-owned small business.

A key priority for the administration is strengthening Made-in-America manufacturing initiatives. There are many hardworking women-owned manufacturers in Eastern Pennsylvania, like Hayley and Stephanie Painter, who manufacture Painterland Sisters Organic Skyr Yogurt with milk from dairy cows that graze on her family’s 4th-generation farm in Tioga County, and Dorothea “Dee” Spencer, a mechanical engineer and founder of DGI, a leading manufacturer of support equipment for defense agencies.  What these two businesses have in common, is they worked with their local SBA district office and SBA Resource Partners to start and grow their small businesses.

At the U.S. Small Business Administration, we are proud to stand alongside these entrepreneurs. Through access to capital, counseling, training, and government contracting opportunities, the SBA works every day to help small businesses start, grow, and thrive. From Main Street retailers to manufacturers and service providers, our goal is to ensure small business owners have the tools they need to succeed.

Sample SBA loan programs:

These loans are designed to support small businesses at various stages—whether you’re starting out, expanding operations, or investing in long-term assets.

After long-term assets, the  SBA 7(a) loan is the most popular and versatile SBA program. It’s commonly used for working capital, equipment purchases, inventory, hiring, refinancing existing debt, or even buying a business.

• Loan amounts: Up to $5 million

• Best for: Established businesses looking for flexibility in how they use funds

Microloans are smaller loans often distributed by nonprofit community lenders, many of which focus specifically on underserved or underrepresented groupsincluding women.

• Loan amounts: Up to $50,000

• Average loan size: ~$13,000

• Best for: Startups, early-stage businesses, or entrepreneurs with limited credit history

The 504 loan is ideal for businesses making large investments in fixed assets—like buying commercial property, renovating a facility, or purchasing major equipment.

• Loan amounts: Up to $5.5 million

• Terms: 10, 20, or 25 years

• Best for: Businesses planning long-term investments in infrastructure or expansion

sba.gov/women | sba.gov/pa

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

GIRLS JUST WANNA VACATION

A beachside roadtrip, a whirlwind weekend in the city, an adventure abroad? Your ideal trip is ready when you are.

ARTICLE BY EMILY ZIETOWSKI

If the return of warm weather has you and your gal pals itching for a weekend getaway, you’re not alone. Try East Coast beach trips, a weekend in NYC, or a week in Paris and beyond.

Ogunquit, Maine is the perfect destination for a summer beach trip. You’ll experience the roadtrip vibe as you spend half a day traveling north. Meander through Boston if you’d like, or head straight to Maine. Ogunquit itself is a quaint town that blends dining, shopping, and the shore, with plenty of places to stay. Village Food Market has excellent sandwich options, and is a convenient stop for groceries. Mornings in Paris offers excellent coffees and French pastries for the perfect start to your morning. For dinner, I recommend reservations at The Front Yard for upscale Mediterranean, Caffe Prego for Italian, and Jackie’s Too for waterfront seafood. Sweet Pea’s blueberry pie ice cream is also a must-try, and Lita Sea Glass Jewelry is the perfect souvenir shop.

There’s plenty to do beyond Ogunquit as well. Fans of Maine lobster should walk along Marginal Way to Perkins Cove where you can eat fresh lobster right on the docks and do some waterfront shopping. You can

also drive to York for a beach day and The Goldenrod Candy Shop, where you can watch the saltwater taffy making processes and pick up some treats to bring home. Or you can venture to Kennebunkport for more shopping, dining, and sail boating.

For a beach weekend closer to home, consider Cape May. You can opt for a waterfront beach house, rent an apartment above the shops in the center of town, or book a room at the iconic Congress Hall hotel. If you’re in the mood for a snack, Quincy’s sells lobster rolls to go right in the heart of Washington Street Mall, and a cone of Kohr’s Frozen Custard is the perfect treat on a hot day. If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, Ebbitt Room offers a sophisticated vibe and farm-to-table ingredients sourced from nearby Beach Plum Farm. You could easily spend a weekend relaxing on the beach and dining around town, but if you want to make the most of your trip, consider a wine tasting at one of the local vineyards, or catch a boat tour for whale or dolphin watching.

In just over an hour, you can be in the heart of New York City.

If your group prefers the city vibe, an Amtrak up to NYC might be the answer. In just over an hour, you can be in the heart of New York City. I recommend starting with dinner and a show. I usually make my reservations at Mermaid Oyster Bar in Times Square for oysters, seafood, and craft cocktails, or Becco for quality Italian food, a good wine list, and unlimited pasta. Both are walking distance from the Broadway district.

If you are adventurous, 20%–50% off same-day show tickets can be found at the outdoor ticket booth, underneath the red steps in Times Square. Check the live, updated list of available shows on the TKTS app before joining the line. You can also check nytix.com/tkts/tktstimes-square or Playbill.com .

Saturdays in the city are perfect for shopping on 5th Avenue and a museum of your choice. I’ve been loving the newly reopened Frick Collection , Pedro Pascal’s planetarium show at the Natural History Museum, and the medieval castle and gardens of the Met Cloisters. Art lovers should also take advantage of late nights at the Met for an evening of fine art, live music, and specialty drinks. If you’re more of a foodie, try a food tour of Greenwich, Chinatown, or Little Italy for a taste of where “real” New Yorkers eat.

Sunday mornings are, of course, reserved for brunch, preferably at Sarabeth’s on the edge of Central Park. After brunch, you’ll have time to check one last Must-Do off your list before

catching your train home. Whether that’s enjoying city views from the top of the Empire State Building, walking the Highline, or taking the Staten Island ferry to see the Statue of Liberty, the choice is yours.

My top pick for a ladies’ trip has to be Paris. With direct flights available in and out of Philadelphia, France has never been more accessible. I’d recommend spending a full week to make the most of your trip.

You’ll kick things off with an overnight flight and early arrival. I recommend devoting this day to beating the jet lag with a picnic on the Seine and an early dinner in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.

For the rest of your days in Paris, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Art Lovers can’t miss The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. The Catacombs , Notre Dame Cathedral , and Sacre Cœur are must-sees. Le Marais and Champs-Élysées are two of the best shopping districts. Montmartre is the backdrop of

many of Paris’s best food and wine tours. And, of course, no trip is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

A week will also give you enough time to venture beyond Paris. For wine lovers, I’d recommend Reims, right in the heart of champagne country, or spending a night or two in the Burgundy or Bordeaux regions for the best red wine. For artists or gardeners, I love Monet’s home and gardens at Giverny as a day trip from the city. For those interested in the history of French Royalty, the palace of Versailles is accessible by train. You could also spend a few days in the North, visiting sites like the beaches of Normandy, the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, the medieval town of Dinan, or the prehistoric standing stones in Carnac that predate Stonehenge. Or you could head South, to Lyon for foodies, to Avignon for history lovers, to Arles for Van Gogh fans, or all the way to Nice for a few days on the Mediterranean.

CONTINUED >

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of your options or if you don’t want to take on the burden of planning, consider working with a travel agent. Having a professional to handle the planning logistics, find what you are hoping for, be on call for questions, and give you personalized recommendations will allow you to make the most of your travels and enjoy your vacation stress-free.

The process is simple: we’ll set up a complimentary discovery call to discuss your dream vacation, and craft a personalized itinerary. With your final approval, your trip will be booked! Your professional is available for questions, changes, and support from the moment you book until you arrive safely back home.

Emily Zietowski is a local, professional travel agent and art historian who specializes in solo, historical, and custom European travel. She can be reached by phone (440-864-7378) or email (emily.zietowski@sojourneytravel.com). You can keep up with her on Instagram (@emily.z.abroad).

HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!

invest inyour living space

There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.

GOOD LIGHTING

It’s imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. Rooms need a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light.  Candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.

GREAT TEXTURES

Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.

DECLUTTERING

So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages.  You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.

COCKTAIL CLUB

Enjoy this refreshing cocktail for a soft, round and subtly sweet taste with a fruity fresh kick.

ingredients: directions: HAKU LYCHEE MARTINI

• 2 oz. HAKU® Japanese Craft Vodka

• 1 oz. house made lychee simple syrup 1. Combine ingredients

Shake vigorously over ice

Strain and serve up in a chilled martini glass

Garnish with a lychee

MAY 2ND & 3RD

Tyler Arboretum Annual Plant Sale

events

TYLER ARBORETUM, 515 PAINTER RD., MEDIA PA 19063 | 8:00 AM

Tyler Arboretum, one of the nation’s oldest and largest arboreta and public gardens, is excited to welcome the public to its annual plant sale.  Featuring a wide variety of plant & tree choices in a beautiful outdoor venue.  Events are supported by knowledgeable staff and volunteers on hand to help.  Ample parking is also available. Member preview May 1st. tylerarboretum.org

MAY 3RD

2026 Annual World Laughter Day

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF DELAWRE COUNTY, 145 ROSE TREE RD., MEDIA, PA 19063 | 1:00 PM

World Laughter Day was created in 1998 by Dr. Madan Kataria, founder of the worldwide Laughter Yoga movement. The celebration is a positive manifestation for world peace and is intended to build up a global consciousness of brotherhood and friendship through laughter. laughteryoga.org

MAY 6TH & 7TH

2026 DELCO Gives Day

DELAWARE COUNTY (COUNTY-WIDE) NONPROFITS

Delco Gives Day is a 24-hour county-wide day of giving/community celebration, where people will make a donation to their favorite nonprofits (or peruse new ones).  Each donation is eligible for bonus money provided by The Foundation for Delaware County. Search from over 160 local non-profits for your favorite organization to support at delcogives.org

MAY 6TH – SEPTEMBER 30TH

2026 Dining Under the Stars Begins!

STATE STREET BUSINESS DISTRICT, MEDIA, PA 19063

Every Wednesday night, May through September, is Dining Under the Stars.  Media’s State Street closes down for traffic and opens up for al fresco dining from Jackson to Orange Streets.  Great for groups, couples, and families.  Live music all along State Street with dozens of restaurants participating in this seasonal event.  Dining reservations are highly recommended, but not required. VisitMediaPA.com

MAY 7TH

3rd Annual DELCO GIVES Celebration Day

WSFS BANK SPORTS COMPLEX, 2485 SEAPORT DR., CHESTER, PA 19013 | 5:00 PM

Delco Gives, hosted by The Foundation of Delaware County, is a community-wide celebration to support local nonprofits. In its inaugural year, 2024, the initiative achieved remarkable success—9,600 donors contributed over $1.7 million to 300+ nonprofits serving Delaware County. The excitement doesn't end with online donations; the event culminates with a celebration at WSFS Sports Complex on May 7th at 5:00 p.m. delcogives.org

MAY 25TH

2026 Memorial Day Parade

STATE STREET BUSINESS DISTRICT, MEDIA, PA 19063

The Veterans Legacy Project in cooperation with the Media Borough are proud to present the 2026 Annual Memorial Day Parade. Parade begins at 10am at Barrall Field, located at the intersection of State and Edgmont Streets. The parade progresses along State Street ending at the Courthouse for a ceremony to honor those who gave their lives to protect us. veteranslegacy.org

Riddle Village offers a comprehensive Lifecare contract, so our residents can embrace retirement living with confidence. With predictable costs for future long-term care, our community provides a plan for your future, allowing you to focus on living life to the fullest every day.

Enjoy luxury amenities and services, such as, weekly housekeeping, indoor garage parking, flexible dining plan with access to four unique restaurants and full-service bar, nine-hole putting green, 24/7 fitness center, indoor swimming pool and so much more.

Ask about our Veterans Discount!