Issuu

Living Beautifully The Style Issue

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

Comfort Never Goes Out of Style. A beautifully designed home deserves a bed that feels as good as it looks.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

TRUE SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD STYLE

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Terry Azad | terry.azad@citylifestyle.com

Hello Scotch Plains-Fanwood!

INTERN

When severe weather struck, neighbors, first responders, volunteers, utility workers and local businesses reminded us that the true style of a community is measured by how it cares for one another. Perhaps none so much as our community leaders who kept communications going strong through a week-long power outage. I've come to believe that style is really about how we express ourselves. It's the choices we make, the passions we pursue, and the unique qualities that make each of us—and our community—one of a kind. One of the things I love most about living here is that style isn't defined by a single look or trend. You'll find it in beautifully designed homes that reflect the families who live in them, in restaurants where every dish tells a story, and in entrepreneurs whose creativity shapes our downtown. You'll also find it in the people who generously volunteer, mentor young people, support local causes, and make this community such a wonderful place to call home. In this issue, we're celebrating style in all its forms. From inspiring local businesses and creative spaces to the stories of residents who bring authenticity, confidence, and heart to everything they do. As always, thank you for supporting the incredible businesses, organizations, and neighbors featured throughout these pages. Every purchase made locally, every event attended, and every connection formed helps strengthen the vibrant community we all share. Here's to finding your own style, celebrating the individuality of those around you, and appreciating the many ways our community continues to inspire.

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Eric Kautz

Terry Azad C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Craig Smith of Photos by Craig Smith

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Cheers! TERRY AZAD & VERONICA KAUTZ, PUBLISHERS @SCOTCHPLAINSCITYLIFESTYLE

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

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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 Scotch Plains City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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

14 Featured

14 18

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Family Style

Lifestyle Letter

More than junk removal. John Valenti is building a family legacy with Go Garbage

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Limelight HOME SERVICES

The Finishing Touch

Inspired By HOME + DESIGN

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Trend Setter HOME + DESIGN

Events

Elevate Every Room with The Blind Dept. & More

Elevate Your Home with Tile That Makes a Statement

Zabrina Castaneda, Owner of The Tile Concierge, shares tile trends that elevate your home

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power. With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

4 5

6 7

1: PSE&G volunteers bring emergency relief supplies to residents without power. 2: Stepping out in style for the Megan Moroney concert at Prudential Center 3: @ Fanwood Ladies Night Out 4: Councilman Carter treats local residents to refreshing Rita's after the storm left many without power. 5: Mayor Mahr stylin' and smiling with a local family at FanJam 6: Mayor Mahr swears in Dan Kranz as Fanwood Police Captain. 7: Congratulations to the State Champions SPFHS Varsity Boys Volleyball Team! CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

When Families Find Their Rhythm Again For many families, September feels like the real beginning of the year. New routines. New schedules. New priorities. It's a season to reset, embrace change, and focus on what matters most. For some, that means managing busy calendars. For others, it means making important decisions about their family and their future. Whatever this new season brings, We're here to provide experienced guidance, thoughtful counsel, and the confidence to move forward.

Family Law | Divorce | Custody | Mediation We’re Here for You When It Matters Most. (908) 543-4800 | www.rcfamilylawyers.com 200 Sheffield Street, Suite 209 Mountainside, NJ 07092 B@rosscalandrillo V@ross_and_calandrillo

city scene CONTINUED

8: Township Manager Margaret Heisey celebrates Team USA at the Darby Watch Party 9: Local fans cheer on Team USA at the Darby Watch Party! 10: Darby Road hosts a massive number of fans for the World Cup Watch Parties. 11: USA! USA! 12: Congratulations to Molly on her 8th Grade Graduation from Terrill Middle School! 13: Friends gather at the 2025 Sea. Hear. Now Festival in Asbury Park. 14: Dialla from Mosquito Joe hosts a table at Fanwood's Ladies Night Out

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ S C O T C H P L A I N S C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

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SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Private offices available at Haven Executive Suites in Scotch Plains At Haven Avenue Executive Suites conveniently located in Scotch Plains, you’ll find the ideal office environment for the small business executive. Their turn-key approach to office solutions provide a private office setting with shared conference rooms and amenities. With high-end telephone capabilities, internet, fax and copier services, postage and mail support all at an affordable rate. Call today to schedule a tour. 210 Haven Avenue | Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 | 908.296.2142 Cell | farella@havenexecutivesuites.com www.havenexecutivesuites.com

Julia Pierce Named Director of Enrollment Management at The Mount Congratulations to Julia Pierce on her promotion to Director of Enrollment Management at Mount Saint Mary Academy! After six years in the Office of Enrollment Management, Julia now leads the school's enrollment strategy, bringing her passion for fostering a welcoming, family-like community to prospective students and families. A Westfield resident, Julia is committed to expanding the Mount's outreach while preserving the inclusive culture that has defined the Academy for more than 118 years.

Kristina Quigley-Leonardelli: Union County SHERO Congratulations to Kristina Quigley-Leonardelli, owner and director of Play and Talk With Us, on being recognized as a 2026 Union County SHERO! Kristina was honored for her dedication to supporting neurodiverse and neurotypical children and their families through inclusive social, educational, and parent support programs. Since founding Play and Talk With Us in 2023, she has created a welcoming community that empowers children to build confidence, communication, and lifelong social-emotional skills.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / S C O T C H P L A I N S

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

FA MILY S T Y L E MORE THAN JUNK REMOVAL. JOHN VALENTI IS BUILDING A FAMILY LEGACY WITH GO GARBAGE

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOS BY CRAIG SMITH

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HO ME SE RVICE S

For most people, getting rid of unwanted furniture, construction debris, or years' worth of clutter is a chore they'd rather avoid. For John Valenti, it's an opportunity to help people move forward. As the founder of Go Garbage in Union County, John has built a business that does far more than haul things away. His company provides demolition, junk removal, estate cleanouts, and property cleanups with professionalism, transparency, and a personal touch that has become the hallmark of the Valenti name.

That commitment to service didn't happen by accident. John is the son of Joseph and Catherine Valenti, and from an early age he learned the value of hard work while working alongside his father in the ceramic tile business. But his father didn't just teach him the trade—he taught him the importance of listening. Even as a young man, John wasn't afraid to share ideas. One of his biggest was encouraging the company to unionize, allowing the business to compete for larger commercial projects. Rather than dismissing the suggestion, Joseph embraced it. "My father always listened," John recalls. "That gave me confidence and taught me that every generation brings fresh ideas." It's a lesson that has come full circle. Today, John's 19-year-old son, Joseph, works alongside him at Go Garbage, bringing his own vision for the future. Just as John once did with his father, Joseph is thinking beyond today, dreaming about how the company can continue to grow. Together, they envision Go Garbage becoming a trusted household name, with franchise locations serving communities throughout New Jersey. Their goal isn't simply to expand—it is to build a brand homeowners know they can trust whenever they need demolition, junk removal, or a clean-up project, no matter the size. Family has always been the foundation of that vision. John is also the proud father of daughters Nina, a rising senior at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, and Alexis. His greatest joy these days, however, may be his role as "Nonno" to his granddaughter, Alana Valenti, who turned 2-years old in August. John happily spends many afternoons with her, and anyone who knows him will tell you she is truly the light of his life.

His family also includes his remarkable mother, Catherine, who at 98 years old continues to inspire everyone around her with her strength and resilience. Those same qualities have helped shape the work ethic and character John brings to his business every day. While many junk removal companies simply arrive, load a truck, and leave, Go Garbage has built its reputation by delivering a higher level of service. The company's professionally trained crews arrive in uniform, treat every customer and every home with respect, and handle all of the heavy lifting. Customers never have to drag furniture to the curb or wrestle oversized items down the stairs. Whether clearing out a garage, dismantleing backyard swingsets/trampolines, removing debris after a renovation, or completing an interior demolition, Go Garbage does the hard work from start to finish. Just as important as what the company removes is what it keeps out of local landfills. Since day one, Go Garbage has operated as a "green" company, committed to reducing environmental impact by diverting as much material as possible from the waste stream. Rather than viewing everything as trash, the team carefully sorts items to determine what can be reused, recycled, or donated. Working closely with local charitable organizations, Go Garbage gives new life to usable furniture, CONTINUED >

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clothing, household goods, and home supplies by connecting them with individuals and families who can benefit from them. For John, responsible disposal isn't simply good business—it's a responsibility to both the community and the environment. John also believes that doing business should be as easy as possible. That's why the company's website offers transparent pricing and a simple booking process, giving customers confidence before the truck even arrives. Reliable, affordable, and trustworthy service has become the standard customers have come to expect from the Go Garbage team. That commitment to professionalism has earned Go Garbage opportunities beyond residential projects. One of the company's proudest moments came when it was selected to assist with the renovation of the Westfield Rescue Squad, a project that was featured on the popular television series George to the Rescue. Being part of a transformation that benefited local first responders reflected everything John hopes his company represents—hard work, community involvement, and making a positive difference where it matters most. For John, success has never been measured solely by the number of trucks on the road or jobs completed. It's measured by trust.

He wants customers to feel confident welcoming the Go Garbage team into their homes, knowing the work will be done professionally, respectfully, and with genuine care. He wants customers to feel confident welcoming the Go Garbage team into their homes, knowing the work will be done professionally, respectfully, and with genuine care. Whether the project takes one hour or one week, every customer deserves the same level of service. Looking ahead, John and Joseph hope to build something that lasts for generations. Their vision is to grow Go Garbage into a recognized franchise throughout New Jersey—a name homeowners immediately think of when they need help reclaiming their space. It's a dream rooted in family values, strengthened by three generations of entrepreneurial spirit, and inspired by a simple belief that has guided the Valentis for decades: listen to people, work hard, and always leave things better than you found them. For the Valenti family, Go Garbage is about far more than removing what no longer belongs. It's about creating fresh starts, protecting the environment, strengthening the community, and building a legacy that future generations will be proud to carry forward.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HO ME SE RVICE S

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THE FINISHING TOUCH Elevate Every Room with The Blind Dept. & More

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH OF PHOTOS BY CRAIG SMITH

I NSP IR E D BY | HO ME + D E SIGN

If you’re anything like me, you have a list of home projects you’ve been meaning to tackle—but somehow never do. That was certainly true when it came to installing the much-needed blinds in my home. After completing a major renovation, all that remained were blinds for the upstairs bedrooms, bathrooms, and one kitchen window. One year passed. Then another. I even

bought blinds from a big box store, only to let them sit in their boxes for another year. When my father-in-law finally offered to install them, we discovered two were broken—and every single one was the wrong size. Then I met Steve Siegal, owner of The Blind Dept., at a local networking event. I scheduled an appointment, and the very next day Director of Operations Evan Alexander arrived with sample books and expert advice. Within an hour, I’d ordered white faux wood blinds for the upstairs and a motorized sheer shade for the kitchen. A few weeks later, everything was professionally installed...in less than 30 minutes! I only wish I’d known THREE YEARS EARLIER how easy—and affordable—the process could be! When it comes to transforming a home, homeowners often focus on new furniture, fresh paint, or decorative accents. But one of the most impactful design elements is often overlooked: window treatments. The right blinds, shades, or shutters don't just provide privacy— they frame a room, soften natural light, improve energy efficiency, and instantly elevate the overall aesthetic. For homeowners throughout Union County and beyond, The Blind Dept. & More has become a trusted name for beautiful custom window treatments backed by exceptional service. Based in Kenilworth, the

family-owned business has earned a loyal following by making the process remarkably simple—from the initial consultation to the final installation. Unlike traditional showrooms that require customers to make decisions under fluorescent lights, The Blind Dept. & More brings the showroom directly to your home. Director of Operations Evan Alexander arrives with an extensive collection of style books, fabric samples, and product options, allowing homeowners to see colors, textures, and finishes in their own lighting and alongside their existing décor. "It's a much easier way to shop," says Alexander. "You don't have to guess whether something will work in your space. We bring the options to you, answer your questions, take precise measurements, and help you choose products that fit both your style and your budget." That personalized approach removes much of the stress from the selection process. Whether you're furnishing a newly built home, renovating a single room, or updating an entire house, customers receive expert guidance every step of the way. Today’s homeowners are choosing window treatments that combine timeless style with everyday function. As large windows remain a popular design feature, there’s growing demand for solutions that maximize natural light while providing privacy and energy efficiency. CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

Motorized shades are one of the fastest-growing trends, offering effortless control with the touch of a button or integration with smart home systems. Natural woven shades add warmth and texture, while cellular shades provide excellent insulation to improve comfort and reduce energy costs. For timeless appeal, shutters remain a favorite thanks to their durability, clean lines, and ability to complement almost any home. Once selections have been made, homeowners are often surprised by how quickly everything comes together. That's where veteran installer Frank DiCosmo takes over. With more than four decades of installation experience, DiCosmo has perfected the art of efficient, precise installation. What might seem like an all-day project is often completed in just a matter of hours, with meticulous attention to detail and respect for each customer's home. His years of experience are evident not only in the speed of his work but also in the flawless finished product. Every blind, shade, and shutter is installed with precision, ensuring smooth operation and a perfect fit. Behind the company's outstanding reputation are owners Stephen and Cathy Siegal, whose commitment to customer service has been at the heart of the business from day one. For Stephen, serving the community has always been more than just good business. Before becoming a successful entrepreneur, Steve spent more than 25 years living in Fanwood, where he raised his family and became deeply involved in the community. For over two decades, he proudly served on the Fanwood Rescue Squad, dedicating countless hours to helping neighbors during emergencies.

“We bring the options to you, answer your questions, take precise measurements, and help you choose products that fit both your style and your budget.” Today, that same spirit of service continues in a different capacity. Along with leading The Blind Dept. & More, Steve serves as a Director Consultant with BNI (Business Network International), the world's largest business networking organization. There, he mentors business owners, helps entrepreneurs build meaningful relationships, and encourages the philosophy of "Givers Gain®"—the idea that helping others ultimately benefits everyone. It's a philosophy that naturally extends to the way The Blind Dept. & More serves its customers. Rather than focusing solely on selling products, the team focuses on creating an enjoyable experience built on honesty, education, and personalized attention. Every project begins with listening to the homeowner's vision and ends with professionally installed window treatments designed to be enjoyed for years to come. From Evan Alexander's in-home design consultations to Frank DiCosmo’s expert installations and the Siegals' longstanding commitment to community service, every part of the process reflects the company's belief that exceptional customer care never goes out of style.

I NSP IR E D BY | HO ME + D E SIGN

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Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of. Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you? Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.

Markets available nationwide. Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

Stop by the Westfield showroom or call to schedule a consultation today.

Because Privacy Doesn’t Have to Be Ugly The Blind Dept. has you, and your windows, covered.

Tile Design At Your Service The Tile Concierge provides a boutique experience like no other - from expert design guidance to flawless installation. Local founder Zabrina offers curated material selection to white-glove project management. Whether it's a kitchen, bathroom, fireplace or custom space The Tile Concierge is here to elevate your style.

Whether you love the look of timeless shutters, classic faux wood blinds, sleek roller shades, elegant Roman shades, natural woven woods, energy-efficient cellular shades, or smart motorized window treatments, we’ll help you find the perfect solution for your home. Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, The Blind Dept. offers complimentary in-home consultations, expert installation, and personalized service to fit your style, needs, and budget. www.theblinddept.com | 908.245.7766 | 637 Boulevard Kenilworth, NJ 070 Stephen and Cathy Siegal, Owners Evan Alexander, Director of Operations

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Call Today for $50 OFF

Ready. Set. GO GARBAGE. SPRING CLEANING SPECIAL

For a limited time GO GARBAGE is offering $50 off any Full Truck service. Now is the time to get rid of the garbage and clutter you've been staring at all winter. The professionals at Go Garbage do the heavy lifting so you don't have to. Affordable, same-day service from a locally owned team you can trust. Call today and reclaim your space!

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Our favorite design elements of this Westfield kitchen makeover ...Custom venetian plaster range hood ...Benjamin Moore New London Burgundy ...Full splash with Taj Mahal quartzite ...Appliance garages!! ...Picture windows for maximize light ...Layered lighting to set the mood no matter the occasion

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THE NEW RULES

Modern Home Style

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK HOME OF RYAN AND HILLARY BADER

For years, the rule was simple. Pick a palette, pick an aesthetic, and let it carry through every room. The all-white kitchen led to the all-white living room led to the all-white everything. That era is over. The most interesting homes right now are doing something braver. They’re letting each room hold its own mood. What ties them together isn’t a single look. It’s the materials they keep coming back to: warm brass, sculptural lighting, marble, stained wood, and quiet neutrals holding it all together. We toured one home that gets it exactly right, and pulled out ideas worth borrowing.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

1. RESORT ENERGY Outdoor rooms designed with the rigor of interiors. This isn’t a backyard. It’s a destination. From the lined-up lounge chairs to the scalloped umbrellas to the green-striped pillows repeating across the deck. The lesson here is to stop treating outdoor furniture as an afterthought. Pick a palette and commit.

3. MOODY MODERN Dark dining rooms are back, and better than ever. Bold taupe walls, an oval black table, sleek chairs, and an oversized round mirror standing in for art. The bright, airy dining room had its decade. Now bring on the supper club.

2. SCULPTUR AL CALM One bold gesture in a quiet room. Everything in this great room is whispering, from the cream walls to the linen sectional to the chandelier’s delicate brass rings. And then a tree, reaching toward the coffered ceiling like it grew there on purpose. When the rest of the room is quiet, the boldest thing you can put in it is something alive.

4. WAR M MODER N The all-white kitchen meets warm wood. Cream cabinetry stays, because the light it gives you is hard to beat. But the island gets a stained wood treatment that grounds the whole space. Brass pendants and hardware add glow. Velvet stools soften the lines. This is the kitchen the next decade is building toward.

CONTINUED >

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6. BUILT FOR PLAY Rooms that don’t apologize for being fun. A game table under a crystal chandelier. A leather club chair next to a telescope. A theater tucked in around the corner. The best entertaining spaces are the ones built for actual use, not just for looking at.

5. THE JEWEL BOX Small spaces, big swing. Antiqued mercury glass, a brass faucet, fluted glass cabinets, golden pulls on crisp white shakers. The idea is to treat your tucked-away corners (bars, powder rooms, butler’s pantries) as the place to take your most theatrical swing. The smaller the room, the bolder you can be.

7. COLOR COCOON Saturated color in rooms meant for rest. Deep sage-spruce walls, ivory bedding, an antiqued mirror catching the shutter light. Proof that calm doesn’t have to mean beige. Color, used right, is the most restful thing you can put in a room. Find your shade and let it hold you.

Different rooms, different moods, one home. The new rule, it turns out, is that there doesn’t have to be one.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

Elevate Your Style With Tile

Zabrina Castaneda, Owner of The Tile Concierge, located at 223 Elmer Street in Westfield, shares tile trends that elevate your home

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD

When it comes to home design, few materials have the power to transform a space quite like tile. Whether you're renovating a bathroom, updating a kitchen backsplash, or creating a show-stopping entryway, the right tile can instantly elevate the look and feel of your home. According to Zabrina Castaneda, owner of The Tile Concierge in Westfield, today's homeowners are embracing timeless design with a modern twist. "One of the biggest trends we're seeing is large-format tile," says Castaneda. "It creates a clean, sophisticated look with fewer grout lines, making spaces feel larger, brighter, and more seamless." Large-format tiles are especially popular in bathrooms and open-concept living spaces, where their minimalist aesthetic allows other design elements to shine. Texture is another trend making a lasting impression. "Tile doesn't have to be flat," she explains. "Adding textured surfaces creates depth and visual interest, whether it's a dimensional wall tile in a shower, a fluted backsplash, or a feature wall that becomes the focal point of the room." These tactile finishes add warmth and personality while maintaining a refined, contemporary style. Color is also making a comeback. While neutral palettes remain timeless, Castaneda encourages homeowners to explore rich, nature-inspired hues. "We're seeing beautiful greens and calming blues used in kitchens, bathrooms, and accent walls," she says. "These colors bring a sense of serenity while adding character that's both current and classic." Her biggest piece of advice? Design with longevity in mind. "Choose materials you'll love for years to come, not just what's trending today. Tile is an investment, so it's important to select products that reflect your personal style while standing the test of time." Whether your style is sleek and modern or warm and inviting, thoughtful tile selections can dramatically enhance your home's beauty and value. With expert guidance and carefully curated materials, every room has the potential to become a space you'll love for years to come. Visit www.thetileconcierge.com for more info.

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Mount Saint Mary Academy SAVE THE DATE!

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2026 REGISTRATION OPENS SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

1645 US Highway 22 W, Watchung, NJ 07069 • www.mountsaintmary.org

SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD HAS STYLE

Congratulations Shea Shara of Fanwood for the winning submission to Scotch Plains City Lifestyle Student Photo Contest!

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E L E VA T E YO U R CLOSET 5 W AY S TO O R G A N I Z E A N D I N J E C T S T Y L E I N TO YO U R S PA C E

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

T R E N D SE T T E R | HO ME + D E SIGN

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

FACE CLOTHES THE SA ME DIRECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

03 02

USE REAL ESTATE WISELY Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. A large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.

HIDDEN STOR AGE Hidden storage is a game changer in keeping a closet visually clean. Tuck folded clothes behind closed cabinet doors if the space is multipurpose. The floor-toceiling built-ins in Keri’s closet contain folded clothes, athleisure and other items she needs as she gets ready each day. Tuck away the least-used items: Use hidden storage and the very top of the closet for out-of-season items and stuff only worn a few times a year.

M AKE A STATEMENT

Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.

ORGANIZE BY KIND AND COLOR

Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

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WANT HEAD TURNING

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S SE PT E M BE R 4 T H

Saint Bart's Unico Italian Festival St. Bart's Roman Catholic Church, 2032 Westfield Avenue, Scotch Plains A beloved tradition since 1974, Scotch Plain's annual Italian Festival over Labor Day Weekend brings family, friends, food, and fun! Enjoy Italian cuisine, live entertainment, amusement park rides and family-friendly games. In addition, the festival will continue to raise funds for local scholarships and community events organized by SP-F UNICO and St. Bart's. SE PT E M BE R 5T H

BBQ & Craft Beer Festival Monmouth Park Racetrack, Oceanport, NJ | 11:00 AM The annual BBQ & Craft Beer Festival returns to Monmouth Park for three more mouth-watering days this Labor Day weekend. Over 40 craft beers, nearly 20 of the area’s top pitmasters, and three days of live music! FREE family fun day activities – featuring clowns, face painters, pony rides and a bounce house – in the picnic area. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Sea. Hear. Now 2026 Asbury Park, NJ | 12:00 PM Sea Hear Now 2026 is a longtime favorite for SPF residents. This year brings Mumford and Sons and The Strokes to Asbury Park's two-day beach festival as headliners. Over 25 bands will play across three stages including Westfield NJ's very own Goo Goo Dolls playing ’90s nostalgia. Two stages sit directly on the sand creating an intimate beach-side Jersey Shore experience! SE PT E M BE R 2 0 T H

RNB & Line Dancing Rodeo Scotch Plains Italian-American Club 1976 Valley Avenue Scotch Plains | 2:00 PM Get ready to groove with Central Jersey Steppers, mixing RNB Vibes and Line Dancing fun in person! The biggest celebration in Central Jersey for Line Dancing! Music by DJ luvisluv and the biggest Line Dance DJ in the world LOUIS DJPAYME REMBERT. Grab your, Crew and your boots! From 2PM - 8PM. Visit www.eventbrite.com for tickets. SE PT E M BE R 2 0 T H

Festifall 2026 Downtown Westfield | 10:00 AM Join us on Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 10am – 5pm in Downtown Westfield! Central Avenue will be transformed into a marketplace of vendors, crafters and retail establishments. Come enjoy the culinary delights of our food vendors. The day will be filled with all day music and a Kids Zone with inflatables. SE PT E M BE R 2 7 T H

29th Annual Fannywood Day Street Fair Martine and South Avenues | 10:00 AM Fanny Wood Day is much more than just a street fair. Fun activities for the family including a Kids Zone, games, contests, and more! Shop quality exhibitors and handmade crafts from local artisans; Grab delicious food from one of the many food exhibitors and trucks and enjoy live music from local bands. From 10-5.

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EVE N TS

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