UM coverage stands for Uninsured Coverage and protects you and your family members injured in an accident with an uninsured vehicle or a hit and run driver. UIM stands for Underinsured Coverage and provides you and your family protection against drivers with low insurance coverage.
Many times we see clients with $500,000/$1,000,000 coverage, which protects strangers they injure with only $100,000/$300,000 UM/UIM coverage, which protects them and their families.
Seigel Law’s recommendation: Select UM/UIM equal to your BI coverage.
Home, Connected
Hello, March!
There’s something about this time of year that gently nudges us back home. As winter fades and spring starts to peek through, I find myself noticing the little things—what’s working, what feels heavy and what could use a refresh. Our March Home Issue always feels especially timely, and this one is rooted in the idea that home is not just where we land at the end of the day, but where connection, comfort and everyday life truly happen.
Between my daughters’ busy schedules, sports and dance competitions, I’m constantly reminded how important it is for our home to function well while still feeling calm and welcoming. I’ll be the first to admit this doesn’t always come naturally to me, which is exactly why I love bringing thoughtful experts and inspiring stories to our readers—people who know how to create spaces, experiences and communities that feel intentional and meaningful.
On the cover, turn to page 12 for Almost Home, Right on Time. This story explores why Westwood’s newest café already feels like a neighborhood favorite, blending warmth, connection and a sense of belonging that makes a place feel like home from the very first visit.
You’ll also want to read Designing Connection on page 30, which highlights how Events by LN creates intentional, experience-driven events. From corporate gatherings to private celebrations, this feature is a reminder that thoughtful design—and the right questions—can transform any space into a place where people truly connect.
For another perspective on home, turn to page 22 for From the Factory Floor to the Living Room. This story follows Salvatore Militello’s journey bringing decades of window treatment expertise directly into clients’ homes, proving that craftsmanship, trust and personal service still matter.
I hope this issue inspires you to look at home—not just as a place, but as an experience shaped by the people, businesses and connections around us.
Michael Lago Creative Company, Maria RogersTiny Hearts Photography, Kartheek Hedge, Chelsea Art Group, Chef David Burke, Shelley Clark, Chris Tarta, Hilary Russo, Donald Christiansen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: VFW Post 6192 honors student voices and service, recognizing award winners and an outstanding educator. 2: 2026 DTU Regional Champs! Varsity Pom takes gold with standout performances across divisions—an unforgettable competition. 3: Ramapo High School faced Northern Highlands in a rivalry matchup, bringing hometown pride and momentum. 4: Publishers Jake and Tiffany Slowinski pictured with Tim Tebow during this year’s City Lifestyle conference. 5: Some of our Garden State City Lifestyle team members connected, learned and represented New Jersey in Kansas City. 7: Events by LN hosted a Gratitude Gathering for clients and vendors at Sunroom Plants, Ridgewood.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
business monthly
Dumpling Dojo Expands to Hackensack
Dumpling Dojo is expanding in Bergen County with a second location opening in Hackensack at 260 South Summit Avenue. Founded by Anthony De Fino, the popular Asian fusion restaurant brings its signature bowls, plates and handcrafted dumplings to a new community, continuing its success beyond its original Rutherford location.
Immaculate Heart Academy Earns AP® School Honor Roll Distinction
Immaculate Heart Academy has been named to the prestigious 2025 Advanced Placement® Program School Honor Roll by the College Board, recognizing schools that expand access to AP coursework while delivering strong student outcomes. This honor reflects IHA’s commitment to a college-going culture, academic rigor, and preparing students to succeed beyond the classroom— earning college credit and confidence along the way.
Scan to read more
The Reset Room Brings Women’s Wellness Studio to Ramsey
The Reset Room is opening a new wellness studio at 100 East Main Street in Ramsey, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage and complementary therapies focused on women’s health. The studio is scheduled to open Jan. 26, offering personalized treatments designed to support recovery, balance and overall well-being for clients throughout Bergen County.
Photography by Immaculate Heart Academy
Photography by Dumpling Dojo
WHY WESTWOOD’S NEWEST CAFÉ ALREADY FEELS LIKE A NEIGHBORHOOD FAVORITE
ALMOST HOME, RIGHT ON TIME
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LAGO
CREATIVE COMPANY
“PEOPLE DON’T JUST WANT GOOD FOOD AND COFFEE— THEY WANT TO FEEL SEEN.” - JUSTINE SANTANIELLO
On a quiet morning in downtown Westwood, the smell of fresh coffee drifts along Westwood Avenue, blending with the hum of a town easing into the day. Inside Almost Home General’s newest storefront, sunlight settles across warm textures and thoughtfully layered details, while tables fill with neighbors who planned to stay for a quick coffee and ended up lingering longer.
That sense of ease is intentional. With its Bergen County debut at 31 Westwood Ave., Almost Home General brings its signature blend of comfort, quality and community to Westwood—creating a café that feels less like a new arrival and more like it has always belonged.
Almost Home General has cultivated a devoted following across New Jersey and Pennsylvania by creating spaces that feel familiar the moment guests walk in. Each café is welcoming and design-forward, yet grounded in approachability. The Westwood location marks the brand’s first café in Bergen County and continues its philosophy of tailoring each space to the neighborhood it serves.
Justine Santaniello
Designed with a cozy, coastal sensibility, the Westwood café offers a warm retreat in the heart of the town’s walkable downtown. Light woods, soft neutrals and subtle coastal touches give the space an effortless feel, striking a balance between elevated design and everyday comfort. It’s equally suited for a weekday coffee run, a casual breakfast meeting or a slow weekend lunch with family.
“Each location has its own personality inspired by the building and the community around it,” the team says. “What never changes is the quality, creativity and care behind everything we do.”
That consistency has guided the brand’s steady expansion since opening its first location in Lincroft in 2021. What began as a neighborhood café has grown into a collection of thoughtfully curated spaces, with locations now spanning Navesink, Oceanport, Westfield and Jersey City, as well as Pennsylvania neighborhoods including Old City and Fishtown. While each café has its own look and rhythm, all share a common focus on quality ingredients, inviting design and genuine connection.
“THIS ISN’T ABOUT BEING EVERYWHERE— IT’S ABOUT BEING MEANINGFUL WHEREVER WE ARE.” - JUSTINE SANTANIELLO
The push into North Jersey began with the opening of the Westfield location, which quickly resonated with the community. The success there helped pave the way for Westwood, where anticipation had been building long before the doors officially opened.
“We opened in December and technically haven’t even had a grand opening yet,” shares Justine Santaniello, who, along with her husband, Dan, is part of the investment group behind the Westwood location. “We wanted to open, get our feet wet and really understand the flow of the space. Since day one, it’s been busy—almost overwhelmingly so in the best way.”
CEREAL LATTE
Santaniello notes the response has been twofold: longtime Almost Home General fans eager to experience the newest café, and Westwood residents who felt the town was ready for a place like this. Once considered a quieter downtown, Westwood has seen a surge of new restaurants and small businesses in recent years, driven by young families and longtime locals alike.
“People were waiting for us,” she shares. “The concept of Almost Home was always about creating a space where people feel like they belong, and the Westwood community has given us that feeling right back.”
At its core, Almost Home General is a coffee shop—one where specialty coffee is treated with intention. Founder Robbie Duran, who has spent years in the food and beverage industry, takes coffee seriously, from sourcing to preparation. The menu features carefully crafted coffee and espresso drinks alongside chefdriven breakfast and lunch offerings, house-made pastries and seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year.
The Westwood menu strikes a balance between comforting and fresh, offering made-to-order dishes that work just as well for busy mornings as they do for leisurely afternoons. Seasonal drink menus and rotating features give regulars something new to discover while preserving the flavors guests return for time and again.
While the menu draws people in, the experience keeps them coming back. Each Almost Home General café is designed as a gathering place—somewhere to meet friends, work remotely or simply pause. In Westwood, that philosophy is reflected in intimate seating areas, a cozy book nook and design details that feel personal rather than precious.
Santaniello played a hands-on role in shaping the Westwood space, designing it from the ground up. Though not formally trained as an interior designer, she leaned into her instincts and personal history to create a space that feels layered and lived-in.
“One of the partners said the area reminded him of the Hamptons,” she explains. “That clicked for me. I grew up spending a lot of time there, and I thought, why not bring a bit of that coastal feeling here—light, bright, effortless.”
The result is a café that feels calm and welcoming, with subtle nods to that inspiration throughout. From the choice of materials to the smallest design decisions, every detail was considered— including spaces others might have overlooked.
“There’s a little book room that could have been boarded up,” Santaniello emphasizes. “Instead, we made it a cozy nook. Seeing
kids pull books off the shelf or people sit there quietly with their coffee—it validates every decision.”
Even the restroom received careful attention, designed to feel like an extension of the overall experience rather than an afterthought. “I wanted every part of the café to feel intentional,” she says. “That’s part of feeling at home.”
Community remains central to the brand’s identity. Ownership and management are regularly present in the café, engaging with guests and staff alike. From greeting regulars to holding babies while parents order coffee, the atmosphere feels familial.
“That’s what sets places like this apart,” Santaniello shares. “People don’t just want good food and coffee—they want to feel seen.”
That philosophy extends beyond the walls of the café. Almost Home General’s mobile coffee cart has become a familiar sight at private events and gatherings along the East Coast, further reinforcing the brand’s focus on connection. Seasonal menus, limited-time offerings and thoughtful promotions—like surprise breakfast specials—keep the experience dynamic without losing its sense of warmth.
As the brand continues to grow, maintaining that balance is a priority. Expansion plans are already in motion, with additional North Jersey locations under consideration. Still, Santaniello says growth will never come at the expense of what makes the concept special.
“It’s important that every location feels rooted,” she notes. “This isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being meaningful wherever we are.”
For Santaniello, the Westwood café represents more than a business venture. It marks a creative chapter, one that blends entrepreneurship, design and community in a way that feels deeply personal. Working alongside her husband and a close-knit group of partners has strengthened those ties even further.
“This feels like home,” she says. “Not just the café, but the life we’re building here.”
For Bergen County residents, Almost Home General’s arrival offers more than just another coffee option. It introduces a space designed for everyday moments—where good coffee, thoughtful food and a sense of belonging come together naturally in the center of town.
As the morning rush gives way to the rhythm of the day, one thing is clear: Almost Home General hasn’t just opened a café in Westwood—it’s become part of the neighborhood.
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS TARTA
WHY CHRIS TARTA’S PEOPLE-FIRST APPROACH IS WINNING IN NEW JERSEY REAL ESTATE
Chris Tarta’s interest in real estate began in middle school, when he spent time at his father’s real estate law firm. Watching transactions unfold from start to finish gave him an early understanding of the critical role a strong agent plays in a successful deal.
Despite that early exposure, Tarta initially pursued a career in hospitality. After attending Johnson & Wales University, where he studied culinary arts and hospitality management, he spent two decades managing restaurants. Most recently, he owned Bella Campania in Hillsdale and Due South Broad Bistro in Ridgewood.
As his family grew, however, the demands of restaurant life became increasingly difficult to balance. Tarta wanted more time with his wife, Ann, and daughters, Mia, Este and Charli.
“When you work in restaurants, you work all the time—nights, weekends and holidays,” he said. “When I sold a property I owned during a tough market, I became very familiar with the real estate process and realized how relationship-based it is, much like hospitality. It gave me a light at the end of the tunnel.”
While still working in restaurants, Tarta earned his real estate license and began taking on clients. In 2017, he transitioned into real estate full time.
Today, he leads the Align Team at eXp Realty in Wyckoff, representing buyers and sellers primarily in Bergen County, while also working in Passaic, Essex, Sussex, Monmouth and Ocean counties. His portfolio spans luxury homes, primary residences and investment properties.
Tarta credits his work ethic and relationship-driven approach for the team’s success.
“I am a platinum-level Realtor and ranked in the top 0.1% in New Jersey in sales,” he said. “Align is the No. 1 team in New Jersey across all brokerages. In 2025, we completed approximately $645 million in sales and about 1,400 transactions.”
Bergen County continues to attract buyers for its balance of space, lifestyle and accessibility, Tarta said.
“People can enjoy comfortable home sizes and generous yards while still having an easy commute to New York City,” he said. “That blend of suburban living with proximity to Manhattan is a major draw.”
For homeowners considering selling this spring, Tarta said market conditions remain favorable.
“You probably have never been able to get the price for your home that you can right now,” he said.
Still, he encourages buyers and sellers to begin conversations well in advance.
“Ideally, you should reach out to a Realtor months—or even years—before making a move,” he said. “That allows time for planning and strategy so you can make the best possible decisions.”
One advantage of working with a team like Align, Tarta noted, is access to off-market opportunities.
“For buyers, we can identify properties before they hit the public MLS and create opportunities ahead of competition,” he said. “For sellers, we can position a property as an exclusive offering, which can lead to prime pricing and smoother transactions based on preferred timing and terms.”
Though his career path has shifted, Tarta said his hospitality background still shapes his approach.
“We operate as a white-glove, concierge real estate team,” he said. “I work directly with clients, supported by 22 full-time staff members who manage everything from contract to attorney review. For sellers, we also have a robust marketing department and a large buyer database.”
Outside of work, Tarta embraces the Northern New Jersey lifestyle he promotes professionally. He and Ann, his high school sweetheart, returned to Wyckoff to raise their family.
“That says a lot about the area,” he said. “We believe in it so much that we chose to come back here for our children.”
The family’s ties to the community run deep. Rather than relocating, they chose to rebuild their home in their longtime neighborhood.
“We couldn’t imagine leaving,” Tarta said. “Our kids are friends, we vacation together, and it truly feels like home.”
Much of Tarta’s free time is spent supporting his daughters— Mia, 16; Este, 13; and Charli, 11—at sporting events, including pickleball, basketball, volleyball and lacrosse. The family also enjoys hiking and walking local nature preserves.
A former restaurateur at heart, Tarta continues to support local dining favorites, including Wyckoff Tavern, Wyckoff Thai, Pazza in Franklin Lakes, Shumi in Ridgewood, Allendale Steakhouse, Roots in Ridgewood, and Sakura, The Brick House and Aldo’s in Wyckoff.
For more information, visit alignteam.com
Bergen County
Chris Tarta
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA ROGERSTINY HEARTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Salvatore Militello Brings Window Expertise Home
From the Factory Floor
to the Living Room
For Salvatore Militello, window treatments are not simply a finishing touch in a home. They are the result of decades of craftsmanship, problem-solving and precision—an industry he entered unexpectedly and never left.
Militello’s career began with what he describes as an “ironic and funny” twist of fate. Fresh out of college and searching for work, he scheduled an interview with Levolor, a window treatment manufacturing facility in Hoboken. The area gave him pause, and he nearly turned around before walking inside. Curiosity, however, won out.
“The second I opened the door, I was hooked,” Militello says. “Seeing raw materials turn into a finished product completely changed everything for me.”
That moment launched a career that would span more than 20 years on the manufacturing side of the window treatment industry. Militello started as a first-shift
Salvatore Militello
supervisor and quickly advanced into management, gaining hands-on experience in how blinds and shades are fabricated, assembled and quality-checked. The work instilled a deep respect for process and detail— principles that still guide his business today.
After nearly a decade, the manufacturing plant closed, and Militello chose not to relocate. He was soon hired by another fabricator, Classico by Hunter Douglas, in Fairfield, New Jersey, where he spent more than 10 years continuing to work behind the scenes with custom window products. When that company was later sold and relocation once again became part of the equation, Militello found himself unexpectedly unemployed. It was then, while sitting in a dentist’s office, that his next chapter revealed itself. Flipping through a magazine, Militello noticed a feature listing the “Top 100 Franchises to Buy.” One name stood out immediately.
“I saw Budget Blinds and thought, ‘I know this business inside and out,’” he shares. “I’d spent my entire career making these products. Why not sell them—and do it my way?”
Militello attended a discovery day in California and purchased his first franchise shortly after. The early days, however, were humbling. He prepared his home office, waited for the phone to ring on day one—and heard nothing.
“I thought I had made the biggest mistake of my life,” he notes, laughing. “It was crickets.”
Rather than panic, Militello leaned into the franchise system. He canvassed neighborhoods, followed the prescribed process, used the Yellow Pages and other advertising channels, and slowly built momentum. The calls came. Sales followed. Over time, he expanded, purchasing two additional territories. Today, he owns and operates three Budget Blinds franchises serving Mahwah, Wayne and Kinnelon, with an office and warehouse based in Garfield.
One of Militello’s most intentional decisions was to avoid opening a traditional retail showroom. Instead, he committed fully to a shop-athome model—bringing samples, expertise and professional insight directly to clients.
“YOU SEE THE PRODUCT IN YOUR ACTUAL SPACE, WITH YOUR LIGHTING, YOUR COLORS. WE MEASURE, EXPLAIN OPTIONS AND GUIDE THE DECISION SO THERE ARE NO SURPRISES.”
- SALVATORE MILITELLO
“We bring the showroom to you,” he explains. “You see the product in your actual space, with your lighting and your colors. We measure, explain options and guide the decision so there are no surprises.”
The model eliminates the overhead and staffing demands of a storefront while allowing Militello and his team to focus on what matters most: price, service and precision. His background in manufacturing has shaped his expectations—both of himself and his staff.
“I’m extremely passionate about what we do,” he shares. “Our product better be perfect. People are paying for professional service, and that’s what they deserve.”
That standard carries through every phase of the process, from consultation to installation. Militello employs an office manager, a dedicated sales professional and installers who share his belief in the shopat-home approach and the importance of setting realistic expectations.
Despite his success, Militello is candid about the realities of business ownership. Even after more than 25 years in the industry, the stress never fully disappears—whether it’s payroll, scheduling or ensuring every customer feels taken care of.
“You’re always thinking,” he says. “But I still love the work. I’m a people person. I like being in homes and helping people make decisions they feel good about.”
Looking ahead, Militello hopes to eventually bring the business to a point where he can pass the operational baton to another dealer while remaining involved on the sales side—maintaining relationships without the daily administrative weight.
That desire to stay connected extends beyond business. Militello lives locally within his service territory and believes proximity matters.
“People want to know who they’re working with,” he emphasizes. “They want to know you’re part of the community.”
Family is central to that story. Militello is married and the father of two grown daughters and a teenage son, and he remains deeply involved in local
service efforts. He previously served as president of Garfield UNICO, the largest Italian American service organization, known for its charitable initiatives, including food basket programs, scholarships and the promotion of Italian culture in the community.
For Militello, those connections are not separate from his work—they are part of the trust he builds with clients.
“When someone invites you into their home, that’s personal,” he says. “Trust matters.”
After decades in the industry—from factory floors to finished living rooms—Militello’s approach remains grounded in the same principle that first drew him in: pride in the process and respect for the result.
“One window at a time,” he ends, “you do it right.”
BUDGET BLINDS OF MAHWAH, WAYNE & KINNELON
Service Model—Complimentary in-home consultations with professional measuring and installation Areas Served—Mahwah, Wayne, Kinnelon and surrounding ZIP codes
Phone—(973) 478-7903
Website—budgetblinds.com/mahwah
art that lives with you
For nearly three decades, Chelsea Art Group has helped redefine how art lives within the home. Founded in 1996 by Donald Christiansen, alongside partners Hendra Josiah and Sylvia Roth, the New York–based art consultancy has built its reputation on one guiding principle: great art should not only be collected, but lived with.
INSIDE CHELSEA ART GROUP AND THE VISION OF DONALD CHRISTIANSEN
Operating by appointment in New York City, Chelsea Art Group advises homeowners, collectors and designers on building thoughtful, personalized collections that reflect both aesthetic ambition and emotional connection. From emerging voices to museum-caliber works, the firm approaches art not as decoration, but as an essential architectural and narrative element of a space.
That philosophy was brought vividly to life during The Art of the Home, a recent immersive showhouse experience that transformed a private Bergen County residence in Upper Saddle River into a living gallery. Designed to demonstrate the power of art integrated thoughtfully into residential environments, the showcase paired blue-chip and contemporary works with leading interior designers, allowing visitors to experience how scale, materiality and emotional resonance shift when art is placed in context.
“The goal was to show what happens when art isn’t isolated on a white wall,” Christiansen shares. “When it’s part of the architecture of daily life, it becomes something you understand differently.”
The showhouse reflected Chelsea Art Group’s core belief that meaningful collecting begins with exposure—seeing exceptional work in real spaces, guided by expertise. Rather than presenting art as untouchable or intimidating, the installation invited visitors to imagine how museum-level pieces could exist naturally within their own homes.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONALD CHRISTIANSEN, CHELSEA ART GROUP
Peter Fisher
Throughout the residence, designers collaborated closely with Chelsea Art Group to curate installations that felt intentional and lived-in. In the lawn and exterior spaces, Vik Muniz’s Mnemonic Vehicle series anchored the experience with sculptural reflections on memory and desire. The enlarged recreations of childhood toy cars—fabricated in industrial materials—explored nostalgia, aspiration and the objects we carry with us through time.
Inside, the lower stairwell and gallery featured commanding works by Didier William, whose layered surfaces and repeated eye motifs reimagine the Black figure with spiritual symbolism and contemporary urgency. The wine lounge and cellar paired Emil Lukas’ luminous string and bubble-wrap compositions with Tom Baril’s refined photographic studies, creating a space defined by quiet rhythm and restraint.
In the grand stairwell and foyer, works by Artur Lescher, Robert Beauchamp, Richard Dupont and Philip Taaffe demonstrated how abstraction, form and material can guide movement through a home. Nearby, the dining room presented contemplative pieces by Ching Ho Cheng and Naama Tsabar, where fragility, tension and silence created a meditative atmosphere for gathering.
Other rooms highlighted the emotional range of art in domestic settings. Willie Cole’s sculptural iron works transformed a transitional hallway into a space charged with cultural memory. Vik Muniz’s Postcards from Nowhere appeared in the kitchen and breakfast nook, reconstructing familiar travel imagery into layered meditations on distance and perception. Powder rooms featured Peter Fisher’s New York City photography, proving that even intimate spaces can carry artistic weight.
One of the showhouse’s most striking moments came through the inclusion of historical works by artists such as Larry Rivers, Sam Gilliam, Lee Krasner and Antonio Saura, positioned alongside contemporary voices. A rare public presentation of Gilliam’s Upside Down Man , on view for the first time after more than 40 years in a private Washington, D.C., collection, underscored the exhibition’s depth and curatorial ambition.
Throughout the home, the art did more than fill walls. It shaped mood, movement and conversation. Visitors lingered. They asked questions. They imagined.
That response, Christiansen says, is the point.
“Our role is to help people identify work of lasting significance and place it where it can be enjoyed every day,” he notes. “Art shouldn’t feel distant. It should feel personal.”
Chelsea Art Group’s approach emphasizes discretion, education and long-term relationships. Rather than focusing on transactions, the firm works closely with clients to develop collections over time—whether acquiring a signature statement piece, expanding an existing collection or curating an environment with a distinct point of view.
The showhouse also carried a philanthropic mission, with proceeds benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, further reinforcing the idea that art and design can serve a broader purpose beyond aesthetics.
As interest grows in integrating fine art into residential design, Chelsea Art Group continues to lead the conversation—showing that when art is placed thoughtfully, it doesn’t just elevate a home. It transforms how that home is experienced.
For Christiansen and his partners, the message is clear: art belongs where life happens.
To learn more or begin a private consultation, reach Chelsea Art Group at info@chelseaartgroup.com or 908-656-4804. More information is available at chelseaartgroup.com
Entang Wiharso, Sam Gilliam
Customized Eye Care for Growing Eyes
Some pediatric eye medications simply aren’t commercially available in the right strengths Our pharmacists compound low-dose atropine eye drops and other sterile ophthalmic solutions tailored specifically for children’s needs
Learn More About Pediatric Compounding 535 East Crescent Ave Ramsey, NJ 07446 201-447-2020 TCCompound com
Scan the QR code for more information
Maria Specializes in Family, Newborn, Maternity, Cake Smash, Fresh 48, Holiday sessions and more!
Beloved in Franklin Lakes, NJ, Maria Rogers is Bergen County s go-to Newborn and Family Photographer A mom of three with over 10 years of experience, Maria specializes in capturing timeless moments
Vik Muniz
Jack Pierson, Emil Lukas, Leonardo Drew, Emil Lukas
Sasya Trangorno
Emil Lukas
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARTHEEK HEDGE
Designing CONNECTION
How Events by LN creates intentional, experience-driven events.
The room was alive with movement and the timeline was tight when a single question cut through the noise: “How can I promote you right now?”
For Lori Nittoli, managing a SERHANT. production at American Dream Mall—hosted by the modern real estate brokerage founded by Ryan Serhant—marked the formal launch of Events by LN, giving a name and identity to the work she was already doing. By nightfall, the brand had a logo, a website and a clear point of view.
FROM CLASSROOM TO CREATIVE CONTROL
Before becoming a full-time event planner, Nittoli spent 30 years as a teacher—a background that continues to inform her leadership style, adaptability, and real-time decision-making.
"Teaching trained me to manage complexity, anticipate challenges, and make decisions in real time,” she says. “Those skills are essential in live event production, where timing and adaptability matter.” she shares.
That mindset now shapes every experience she designs. “I can read the energy in a room and pivot without ever losing sight of the bigger picture,” she notes.
DESIGNING WITH INTENTION
Nittoli describes her events as mental mood boards that come to life. Her creative process begins the moment she meets a client. She starts by defining the purpose of the event—what it needs to accomplish and how guests should feel—and designs every element around that goal.
“As soon as I meet someone, my mind starts mapping out the event,” she explains. “I can see the whole picture—colors, textures, the flow of the room, even how guests will experience each space. I start with intention, then build the style around it.”
Every detail has meaning, from the floor plan to the signage. “It’s part design, part strategy, and part instinct,” she says. “That’s the part I love most—bringing clarity, creativity, and precision together until the entire vision clicks into place.”
ELEVATED EXPERIENCES WITH PURPOSE
Events by LN has become known for polished execution and thoughtful design, with clients that include Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and American Dream Mall. But for Nittoli, aesthetics are only part of the equation.
“My real estate collaborations with SERHANT. are always special because they push me creatively,” she shares. “When the same circle of agents and clients attends multiple events, I take it as a challenge to make every experience feel entirely new.”
Her nonprofit work carries even deeper meaning. “The Rare Is Beautiful Casino Night at Bentley/Rolls-Royce will always stand out,” she explains. “It raised awareness for families affected by Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Events like that prove you can create something beautiful and meaningful at the same time.”
PERSONAL TOUCH, PROFESSIONAL PRECISION
What sets Events by LN apart is Nittoli’s direct involvement and creative leadership from concept through execution.
“Teaching gave me my calm-under-pressure superpower and taught me how to think three steps ahead.”
- Lori Nittoli
“My clients work directly with me—always,” she says. “They’re never passed off to a team. I’m involved in every decision, from the first creative conversation to the final guest departure.”
That same intentional approach carries into private home celebrations, where Nittoli helps clients transform their own spaces into thoughtfully designed environments that feel elevated, personal and effortless.
She’s also known for asking the questions that shape stronger outcomes. “Why this space? What should guests walk away feeling?” she shares. “Those answers are what separate an event that looks good from one that truly resonates.”
THE ART OF CONNECTION
Her tagline, Your Social Event Specialist, reflects her philosophy. “Connection is always the goal, but it has to feel natural,” Nittoli notes. “Sometimes it’s the way a room is laid out, the pacing of the evening, or the interaction that happens over a thoughtfully designed moment.”
She also plans with longevity in mind. “A great event should continue working after it ends—through imagery, conversation, and the relationships it creates,” she explains. “Whether it’s a branded detail or a curated takeaway, my goal is to design experiences people want to talk about long after they leave.”
TRENDS AND TIMELESS TOUCHES
“If I ever feel like I’ve seen it before, I know it’s time to push further,” Nittoli emphasizes.
Today’s clients are seeking depth and engagement. “Layered design, tactile materials, and intentional lighting are no longer extras—they’re expected.”
Spring and summer events are leaning into chrome accents, bold yet refined color palettes, and soft, draped elements balanced by layered lighting. Rich neutrals help
“It raised awareness for families affected by Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Events like that prove you can create something beautiful and meaningful at the same time.” - Lori Nittoli
ground the look, creating spaces that feel modern, elevated, and designed for connection. Daytime events are getting a major glow-up, and outdoor-adjacent celebrations continue to resonate.
But the most notable shift is toward interaction. Mixology moments, scent bars, live art, and curated culinary pairings are in high demand. “People want to participate, not just attend,” she says.
PLANNING WITH HEART
Her advice for anyone planning a milestone event is simple: design it with intention.
“Forget chasing trends,” she shares. “The best events reflect the host—their personality, their story, their taste. Guests remember how they felt more than anything else.”
Looking ahead, Nittoli’s vision for Events by LN centers on evolution, not scale. “I want to keep choosing projects that feel fresh and purposeful,” she notes. “People are craving experiences that feel considered and meaningful—and that’s where the magic really lives.”
For more information visit eventsbyln.com .
A Spoonful of Comfort
Rethinking chowder—and turning chili into a creamy crowd-pleaser
Most people think of chowder in terms of clam, fish or corn. That gives short shrift to a broader category of soup defined by its hearty, chunky character—often thick and creamy, though not always.
Consider tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder, which is relatively light compared with the robust creaminess of the New England version. What truly defines chowder is not the presence of cream, but its substantial texture.
Nearly any ingredient can be “chowdered,” from chicken and shrimp to pork, oysters, beef and vegetables. Even chili can be adapted to the form.
Chowder traces its roots to the 1700s, when English and French sailors prepared stews of fish, pork, onions, herbs and soaked biscuits for thickening. The word is believed to derive from the French chaudron, meaning cauldron, and the Old English term jowter, meaning fish peddler. These early stews were adopted by fishermen along the Atlantic coast of Canada and what would become the United States. Over time, chowder evolved into a cornerstone of American comfort food, often incorporating cream and potatoes, though neither is required. Regional variations followed local ingredients, from corn chowders in the Midwest to conch chowder in the Florida Keys.
The following recipe reimagines chili as a chowder, softening its traditional flavors while lending warmth and richness to the creamy base. The result is a cold-weather crowd-pleaser that bridges two classic comfort dishes.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 3/4 pound ground beef
• 3/4 pound chuck beef, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced (or 1 teaspoon adobo)
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 can beef consommé
• 1 can cheddar cheese soup
• 2 cans water (use soup can to measure)
• 1 can pinto beans, drained
• 1 can whole-kernel corn, drained
• 1 cup roasted corn
• 1/2 pound Yukon gold potatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Splash of lime juice
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef, chuck beef, bell pepper and jalapeño. Cook, stirring, until beef is browned. Remove mixture from pot and set aside.
3. Drain excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot. Add tomato paste and cook until darkened. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and oregano and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add butter and flour, stirring to form a roux. Gradually whisk in consommé, water and cheddar cheese soup. Add potatoes, beans and corn.
5. Stir barbecue sauce into reserved beef mixture, then return beef to pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until potatoes are tender and broth has thickened, 45 to 60 minutes.
6. Stir in cream and season with salt and pepper. Finish with a splash of lime juice. Garnish with scallions, if desired, and serve with tortilla chips or oyster crackers.
ARTICLE BY CHEF DAVID BURKE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHEF DAVID BURKE, SHELLEY CLARK
Sleep Apnea, Brain Health, and the Cost of Silence
Why New Jersey residents should stop ignoring the sleep crisis in their own homes
For thousands of New Jersey residents, exhaustion has become a way of life. Long commutes, high-pressure careers and always-on family schedules leave many running on empty—often without realizing that poor sleep is quietly undermining their longterm health. What looks like simple fatigue can be something far more serious: untreated sleep disorders that raise the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline and dementia.
I never expected to become a sleep-health advocate. Like millions of Americans, I trusted a health care system that too often treats test results instead of people. I lived with disrupted sleep for years—long before sleep became a trending wellness topic— without understanding that the roots of my struggle traced back decades.
At 15, after years of braces, retainers and jaw pain, I underwent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery. The procedure relieved the pain and gave me a perfect bite—at least temporarily. What no one explained was how altering jaw structure can affect the airway. There was no rehabilitation plan, no longterm follow-up. I was told to smile and move on. A slow relapse was already underway.
Years later, after persistent snoring and breathing difficulties, I finally had a sleep study. At 50, I learned I had obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, briefly stopping breathing throughout the night. The
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY HILARY RUSSO
diagnosis came by voicemail. No one explored why my airway was compromised. There was no discussion of my surgical history or how jaw structure, nervous system function and breathing patterns interact. The solution was a single checkbox: CPAP. That moment changed everything. If no one was going to connect the dots, I would. What began as a personal health mission became a deeper education in advocacy—because every healing journey is individual, not one-size-fits-all.
A PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT
March is both World Sleep Day and National Sleep Awareness Month, yet sleep deprivation remains one of the most overlooked public health threats. A Harvard analysis of national data estimates that poor sleep costs the U.S. economy $280 billion to $411 billion each year through lost productivity, medical expenses, accidents and chronic disease. Individuals with untreated sleep disorders can incur more than $7,000 in additional annual health care costs.
The personal consequences run deeper than finances. Research consistently links chronic sleep disruption to serious medical conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity. Sleep loss also impairs memory, emotional regulation and decision-making.
Most concerning, large-scale studies show that people with obstructive sleep apnea face a 43% to 45% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Multiple systematic reviews confirm a strong association between sleep-disordered breathing and long-term cognitive decline. Poor sleep is no longer a nuisance—it is a neurological risk factor.
BY THE NUMBERS
According to the 2025 National Sleep Foundation Sleep in America® Poll:
• 60% of adults do not get the recommended amount of sleep.
• 68% report difficulty falling asleep, and 70% struggle to stay asleep.
• 50% give themselves a failing grade for sleep satisfaction. Poor sleep is no longer the exception. It is the norm.
WHY THE SYSTEM MISSES THE ROOT CAUSE
My first sleep doctor saw a score, not a system. There was no assessment of airway anatomy, jaw history or nervous system function. Emotional responses to medical devices were never discussed. That experience pushed me to build my own integrative care team and study the full-body nature of sleep health.
Airway health is whole-body health. Nasal passages, tongue posture, jaw alignment and the autonomic nervous system work together. A narrow airway does not just cause snoring—it disrupts oxygen flow, stress hormones and brain function night after night.
Dentists trained in airway-focused care and myofunctional therapists look beyond a sleep score. They evaluate mandibular positioning, tongue posture, bite alignment and mouth-breathing habits that contribute to airway collapse. This is not cosmetic medicine. It is respiratory health.
CONTINUED >
Hilary Russo
PUTTING CONTROL BACK IN PATIENTS’ HANDS
Medical care is essential, but daily habits matter. Regulating the nervous system improves sleep quality and complements clinical treatment.
• Breathwork: Slow, diaphragmatic breathing activates the body’s relaxation response and reduces nighttime stress hormones.
• Consistent routines: Regular bed and wake times stabilize the body’s internal clock.
• Guided relaxation: Techniques that reduce muscle tension are especially helpful for people who clench or grind their teeth, a common unconscious response to restricted airflow.
As a certified Havening Techniques practitioner, I teach self-regulation tools that calm the brain and promote restorative sleep states. Many clients report falling asleep faster, waking less often and feeling more rested because they are addressing nervous system safety, not just their mattress.
WHY THIS MATTERS NOW
Sleep is not a luxury to be earned after everything else is done. It is biological maintenance for the brain and body. When we ignore chronic exhaustion, we trade short-term productivity for long-term cognitive risk.
For New Jersey families balancing demanding careers, long commutes and full schedules, this conversation is urgent. Protecting sleep today protects memory, focus and independence tomorrow.
Rest is not weakness. It is wisdom. When we treat sleep as essential—rather than optional—we reclaim not only our nights, but our long-term brain health.
About Hilary Russo
Hilary Russo is a Bergen County–based trauma-informed holistic practitioner, health coach, journalist and international speaker. She is one of only 50 certified Havening Techniques trainers worldwide and hosts HIListically Speaking, a top-rated podcast on holistic health, wellness and neuroscience. Connect with her at hilaryrusso.com or @hilaryrusso on social media.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT
MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED
There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.
Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.
“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”
That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.
THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED
The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.
“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”
A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.
ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME
The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.
Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.
POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT
If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.
LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH
Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.
Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.
At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.
PROJECT CREDITS
Builder - Buildwell
Architect and Interior Architect - Flower Architecture
Designer - Kate Manz
MARCH 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS IN MARCH
Blessed Bargains Thrift Shop
United Methodist Church, 271 Franklin Ave, Franklin Lakes | 9:00 AM
Join the Blessed Bargains Thrift Shop! Shop for unique finds and donations at Franklin Lakes United Methodist Church. For more information, visit: franklinlakes.org/communityevents.
MARCH 6TH - 7TH
NJEA Winter Leadership Conference
(venue details on registration)
Professional development weekend for educators in Franklin Lakes; venue details available with registration. More: franklinlakesea. org/events/2026-03-06/
MARCH 13TH
Franklin Lakes Chamber of Commerce Breakfast
1208 Pompton Rd, Franklin Lakes | 7:00 AM
Franklin Lakes Chamber of Commerce will host a breakfast and networking meeting at the OEM building. For more information, visit: franklinlakes.org/communityevents
MARCH 14TH
Ringwood St. Patrick’s Day Parade
parade route | 10:30 AM
Join the Ringwood St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade will feature bagpipes, floats and Irish dancers on Main Street in Ringwood, with a route to St. Catherine of Bologna Church.
MARCH 20TH - 22ND
Jam Jersey 2026 — Bluegrass Music Weekend
DoubleTree by Hilton - Mahwah, 180 NJ-17, Mahwah
Three days of music, jams and workshops at DoubleTree by Hilton. More information is available at simpletix.com/e/jam-jersey2026-tickets-222321
MARCH 27TH
Franklin Lakes Education Foundation — A Night in Morocco
4350 Route 23, Woodland Park | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a themed evening benefiting local schools at Westmount Country Club in Franklin Lakes. Proceeds support educational programs and community initiatives. Tickets and details available online. For more information visit franklinlakes.org/communityevents.
