Upper Westchester, NY May 2026

Building What Matters Most

There’s a certain kind of woman you find throughout Upper Westchester. She’s driven, thoughtful, and deeply committed to building a life that actually works for her.

Not just on paper, but in real life.

This month’s Women’s Issue is a reflection of that mindset. It’s about women who are redefining success in a way that feels more personal, more intentional, and ultimately more sustainable.

In this issue, you’ll meet women like Amie Greenberg of Better Body Pulse and Dalia Dahan Kramarz, Psy.D., who each, in their own way, made the decision to step off the expected path and create something more aligned with who they are and how they want to live. Their stories are not about chasing more, they’re about choosing better. More balance. More purpose. More ownership over their time, energy, and impact.

You’ll also find inspiration in Tanya’s latest style column, where she breaks down spring trends that actually make sense for real life because style should support your life, not complicate it. Becky Hillyard continues to bring her signature perspective on modern living, reminding us that confidence often comes from simplicity and clarity. And at La Bocca, we’re celebrating a local favorite that brings people together, reinforcing that some of the most meaningful moments happen around a table.

What ties all of these stories together is a shared understanding: success is no longer one-size-fits-all.

It’s evolving.

It’s becoming more human.

And perhaps most importantly, it’s becoming something women are defining for themselves.

My hope for this issue is that you see a version of your own story reflected in these pages or at the very least, feel encouraged to question what success looks like for you in this season.

Because the most powerful thing you can build isn’t just a business or a career.

It’s a life that feels like your own.

LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @UPPERWESTCHESTER.CITYLIFESTYLE

Our publication serves the communities of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappaqua, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge and Valhalla.

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Lara Casiple | lara.casiple@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Adam Vohra | adam.vohra@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Bamford, Tanya Meyers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ChiChi Ubiña, Leigh Hansen

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

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

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Restoration, Cleaning & Reconstruction

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city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

BCW Hires a New Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications

The Business Council of Westchester has hired Jacobella Luongo of Greenwich, Connecticut as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications. In this role, Luongo will shape and amplify the organization’s voice across platforms, oversee its weekly digital newsletter, and lead integrated marketing and communications strategies. She will collaborate with leadership on executive messaging, manage media and social channels, and work with marketing partner Thompson & Bender to strengthen brand visibility and deepen member engagement across region.

Chappaqua Now Offering Full Hot Breakfast and Hot Lunch Menu

Green & Tonic Chappaqua now offers their full Hot Breakfast and Hot Lunch menu, making it easier than ever to enjoy delicious craveable food without compromise. Leading the lineup is their viral Better Arch burger, a protein-packed take on a classic favorite. New additions include Chicken Nuggets, Wagyu Bacon Egg & Cheese, Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap, Turkey Sausage Egg & Cheese, Chicken Shawarma, Chicken Salad Sandwich and more! Visit Green & Tonic Chappaqua today.

Now Open in Mount Kisco: Danny's Cycles

Danny’s Cycles has opened a new location in Mount Kisco, NY, at 269 N Bedford Rd, serving the local cycling community with full-service repairs, bike sales, and trade-in options. The shop honors outstanding one-year service policies from the former Bicycle World for bikes sold in 2025. This addition strengthens Danny’s Cycles’ growing presence across Connecticut and New York, continuing the company’s focus on community-driven service and support for local cyclists.

Spa Parties, Right

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS, Wine Follows

ARTICLE BY DANA CIFONE

Heather Muriello didn’t arrive in the world of wine through some romantic, perfectly scripted moment, and that’s exactly what makes her story feel so real. There was no sweeping pivot, no cinematic vineyard awakening. Instead, it unfolded the way most meaningful things do: slowly, intuitively, and over time.

She was building a career in marketing, moving through the pace of life, when wine began to quietly weave itself in. It showed up at dinner tables, on trips, in those lingering moments after a great glass when curiosity takes hold. Not just what am I drinking, but why does it taste like this, where does it come from, and who made it?

At some point, that curiosity stopped feeling casual. It felt instinctive. Something worth following.

Heather leaned in, earning her WSET Level 2 certification and immersing herself in Italian wine studies. But more than that, she created something of her own, Winefarer. Not just a brand, but a perspective rooted in one simple idea: wine should feel like an invitation, not something you need to qualify for.

Now based in Greenwich, Connecticut with her family, she has built a life that moves effortlessly between home and discovery. And when she travels, she’s not chasing what’s already been done. She’s looking for what’s just about to be discovered, the regions, the producers, the varietals that haven’t yet been overexposed but are undeniably worth knowing.

CONTINUED >

She has spent time along the coastline of Abruzzo, where Montepulciano grows alongside the Adriatic and trabocchi stretch out over the water like something untouched by time. She’s explored Roero in Piedmont, often overshadowed by Barolo but deeply expressive in its own right. She’s followed Assyrtiko across Santorini’s volcanic terrain, experienced the restraint and structure of Ribera del Duero, and fallen into the precision and aromatics of Alsace.

But what makes Heather’s approach different isn’t just where she goes, it’s how she experiences it.

There’s a shift that happens when you stand in a vineyard with the person who farmed it. When you hear their story before you taste the wine. It adds depth, context, and connection. The glass in your hand becomes more than just something you’re drinking, it becomes a place, a memory, a perspective.

unnecessary language and focuses on what actually matters: how it tastes, when you’d open it, what you’d pair it with, and why you should care.

Her recommendations are the kind you save. The ones you bring into a wine shop and reference without overthinking it. There’s no pressure to know everything, just permission to enjoy it.

“Drink what you love, skip the rules—wine should feel good, not intimidating.”

And for Heather, that’s the part that matters.

Because the instinct isn’t just to discover something new. It’s to bring it back and share it in a way that feels accessible.

That’s what Winefarer has become. Through her Instagram, Substack, and content, she’s built a community, largely women, who love wine but don’t want to feel intimidated by it. Her voice is clear, approachable, and intentional. She strips away the

And behind the beautiful visuals, the glassware, the travel, the effortless aesthetic, there is a sharp, strategic foundation. Through Heather Muriello Social, she has expanded her expertise beyond wine, working with brands across hospitality, wellness, and lifestyle. Her ability to translate a brand into something that genuinely connects is what sets her apart. Looking ahead, her focus is simple: more. More regions, more producers, more stories to tell. She’s especially drawn to Italian wines that are just beginning to step into the spotlight, the ones that haven’t yet had their moment, but inevitably will.

But at the core of everything she does, her message remains the same, and it’s one that resonates whether you’re deeply immersed in wine or just starting to explore it.

Trust your palate. If you like it, it’s good. Everything else is just context. And that’s exactly what she’s here to share.

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LA BOCCA RISTORANTE & VINERIA ENTERS A NEW CHAPTER

ROOTED IN FAMILY, ELEVATED BY VISION

In the heart of downtown White Plains, La Bocca Ristorante & Vineria has long been a trusted destination for authentic Italian dining—an intimate, welcoming place where meals unfold slowly, wine is thoughtfully poured, and hospitality feels personal. This spring, as Upper Westchester residents step into April with a renewed appetite for connection and community, La Bocca is celebrating a meaningful new chapter under the ownership of husband-and-wife team Alessandro and AnnaMaria Crocco.

The transition marks both continuity and evolution. AnnaMaria purchased the restaurant from her father, preserving the family legacy that has defined La Bocca since its beginnings. Joining her as co-owner, Alessandro brings a complementary skill set rooted in strategic planning, governance, and wine and hospitality investment—creating a partnership that honors tradition while positioning the restaurant for thoughtful, long-term growth.

The team brought in a talented new chef who is replicating authentic family recipes and adding innovative specials to the selection of antipasti, insalate, primi, secondi, and dolci (all made in-house). Signature dishes include Polpette Al Sugo, Nonna's"

beef meatballs in tomato sauce, warm breadsticks; Sfornatino Di Melanzane, a slow-cooked eggplant soufflé with burrata fonduta and light tomato sauce; Filei Calabresi, homemade Calabrian fusilli with porcini mushroom, crumbled sweet sausage and pancetta; Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Con Burrata, potato gnocchi baked in tomato sauce, topped with fresh burrata; Branzino Al Forno, filet of Mediterranean Seabass baked with fresh herbs, spices, white wine sauce, lemon, garlic, parsley, evoo; and Costolette Di Agnello Alla Griglia, grilled rack of lamb with mint-balsamic herb reduction.

And, for dessert, two popular options are the Zabaglione, a light, airy custard, whipped egg whisked to a delicate creamed texture, topped with mixed berries; or Tortino Al Cioccolato, a warm chocolate cake with a rich raspberry center, served soft and decadent with each bite served with a scoop of vanilla gelato.

A new list of craft cocktails was designed, and noteworthy recommendations are the Bocca After Dark, a fresh espresso, coffee liquor, Grey Goose Vodka mix (topped with 3 beans never 2); and Malfy Twist, imported Malfy Rosa Gin, splash of lime juice, and tonic.

“La Bocca has always been about delicious food, family, and community,” says Alessandro. He continued, “My role is to help ensure the business is well-structured, financially sound, and positioned for the future—while protecting what makes it authentic and special.” Alessandro’s involvement focuses on strategic oversight, wine programming, financial planning, and business development, allowing the restaurant to grow with intention rather than trend-chasing.  AnnaMaria continues to lead the heart of the restaurant: the guest experience, culinary direction, and hospitality vision. A familiar and welcoming presence, she remains deeply connected to the day-to-day rhythm of La Bocca, ensuring that every guest feels the warmth and care that have become the restaurant’s

signature. Together, the Croccos represent a modern family-led ownership model—one that clearly defines roles while sharing a unified commitment to quality, culture, and community. That intention is already visible. La Bocca has strengthened its Italian wine program, curating selections that highlight both renowned regions and lesser-known producers, while maintaining an approachable, guest-friendly philosophy. The restaurant’s newly refined private event space has also emerged as a central part of its future, hosting intimate wine dinners, corporate gatherings, tastings, and cultural events that reflect La Bocca’s identity. “La Bocca was created as a place to come home — where friends become family around an Italian table,” said AnnaMaria.

“I WANT LA BOCCA TO FEEL LIKE COMING HOME — A PLACE WHERE FRIENDS BECOME FAMILY AROUND THE ITALIAN TABLE.”

—ANNAMARIA

She continued, “It is important to us to share Italian culture in a modern and innovative way. La Bocca is our foundation in the community—a place of hospitality—while collaborating with like-minded organizations offers a creative outlet that deepens connection and understanding.” Notable events include a Lemoncello making experience, an intimate Amaro tasting at the bar, and Aperitivo 101. To further its connection to customers,

the restaurant recently introduced personalized nameplates for its most frequent guests– a thoughtful nod to Italian hospitality that marks when a regular becomes part of the family.

The restaurant’s evolution mirrors the broader transformation of White Plains itself, which continues to emerge as a dynamic hub for dining, business, and culture in Westchester County. Under the Croccos’ stewardship, La Bocca is intentionally positioned as a refined yet approachable destination— equally suited for family dinners, business lunches, celebrations, and meaningful gatherings.

More than a rebranding or relaunch, La Bocca’s new chapter is a study in stewardship: how a family-owned restaurant can modernize with clarity, preserve its soul, and continue to serve as a cornerstone of its community. As spring unfolds and diners return to familiar tables, La Bocca remains what it has always been—welcoming, authentic, and rooted in family—now guided by a vision built to last.

For more information, visit  laboccaristorante.com or follow  @labocca_ristorante_vineria.

Rachel Lacoste

Working with Rachel means having a dedicated partner in your corner before, during, and long after the sale. Her keen attention to detail, in-depth market knowledge, and genuine ability to listen and understand her clients’ wants and needs set her apart as a trusted real estate professional. Clients consistently commend Rachel for her patience, responsiveness, and commitment to making the home buying or selling process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

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7 SPRING TRENDS THAT ACTUALLY MAKE SENSE FOR REAL LIFE

modeT GUIDE:

Spring dressing always feels exciting to me. It is that moment when everything starts to feel lighter, fresher, and full of possibility. Yes, the weather can still be a little unpredictable, and getting dressed during that in-between time is not always as effortless as it looks, but that is also what makes spring such a good time to rethink what you already own and bring in pieces that make your wardrobe feel new again. It is not about buying a whole new wardrobe, it is about finding what feels current, easy, and right for real life. When I shop for clients or edit closets, I am never looking at trends just because they are trends. I always want to know what actually translates into real life, what feels current without feeling forced, what works with pieces you already own, and what makes getting dressed feel more fun instead of more complicated. What I like about Spring 2026 is that the season feels expressive, but still very styleable. These are the seven trends that feel fresh and current, but still easy to wear in a way that feels personal and real.

ARTICLE BY TANYA MEYERS, FASHION STYLIST

1. STRONG COLOR, USED IN A SMART WAY

Spring 2026 is colorful, but not in a soft pastel-only way. The mood feels bolder and more personal, think tomato red, violet, and cobalt blue. There is definitely more color in the mix this season, and it is making even simple outfits feel more alive.

The modeT way:

You do not need to wear bright color head to toe. Start with one piece. A strong blouse with denim, a bright knit with neutral trousers, or a colorful flat with your basics is usually enough.

2. SHEER LAYERING

Lace layers, corset shapes, slips, and sheer pieces are all part of the conversation, but the version that works in real life is about balance, not revealing too much.

The modeT way:

A slip skirt with a simple knit, a lace-trim camisole under a blazer, a softly structured corset top with denim, or a sheer layer under something more tailored can look incredibly beautiful when styled the right way. Something delicate almost always looks better with something a little more grounded.

3. SPORTY POLISH

Sporty silhouettes are still a big part of spring, but they feel cleaner, more polished, and much easier to wear now. Easy layers, utility details, zip-front pieces, shell jackets, sleek sneakers, and practical shapes are all part of the mix, but styled in a way that feels intentional rather than too casual.

The modeT way:

This is where dressing up track pants can actually look incredibly chic. A track pant with a blazer or crisp button-down, a sporty shell with trousers, or a sleek sneaker with a fuller skirt all work beautifully. The key is to mix the sporty piece with something more refined so the overall look feels balanced and polished.

4. DIRECTIONAL SHAPES AND NEW PROPORTIONS

Spring 2026 is not only about color or texture, it is also about shape. Peplums, puffed pants, dramatic shoulders, bubble hems, fringe, and other sculptural details are part of what is making the season feel fresh.

The modeT way:

When a piece has a stronger shape, I like to keep everything around it simpler. A peplum top with straight jeans, puffed pants with a fitted tank, or a sculptural jacket with a slim trouser can look incredibly chic. Let one shape lead so the outfit feels balanced instead of busy.

5. STATEMENT SKIRTS, INCLUDING PLEATS AND MOVEMENT

Skirts are having a real moment this season, especially styles with movement, texture, pleats, or stronger proportions. It is one of the easiest ways to make an outfit feel current without trying too hard.

The modeT way:

If the skirt has volume, pleats, or movement, keep the top simple. A fitted tank, slim tee, or easy cardigan usually works best. I also love a beautiful skirt with a sneaker or flat because it keeps the look relaxed and wearable.

6. LEATHER JACKETS

A good leather jacket still earns its place every spring, but this season the shapes feel a little fresher. I especially love the slightly cropped and slouchier moto styles right now, and rich brown feels like a really nice update if you already own black. The modeT way:

Throw it over a feminine dress, wear it with jeans and a white tee, or layer it over lace to make the whole look feel a little less sweet and a little more personal.

7. SOFT ELEGANCE, WITH ROOM FOR PERSONALITY

One of the things I like most about Spring 2026 is that it does not feel too rigid. There is a softer, more fluid kind of polish this season, and that is a big part of why the trends feel so wearable. The modeT way:

A fluid trouser with a tank, a soft blazer over denim, or an easy dress with a beautiful flat hits that sweet spot. Polished, but not stiff. Put together, but still comfortable.

What I like most about this season is that you do not have to pick just one trend and fully commit to it. The best outfits usually come from mixing a few elements in a way that feels right for you, a strong color with denim, a statement skirt with a sporty jacket, lace with leather, or a directional shape with something simple. And sometimes it is the finishing pieces that really make the look, oversized sunglasses, a great silk scarf, a polished belt, or a statement earring can completely change the feel of an outfit.

That is always the modeT way: not chasing every trend, but choosing the pieces that make you feel your best and fit naturally into your life.

And do not forget to check your local boutiques when the new collections start coming in. That is often where you find pieces that feel special and wearable, not just trend-driven for the sake of it. Some of my go-tos are I Am More in Scarsdale, Pologeorgis and Nobelle in Greenwich, and Saujette in Larchmont, with Darien coming soon.

Happy Spring!

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

REDEFINING EMOTIONAL WELLNESS

THROUGH CLARITY, GROWTH, AND SELF-UNDERSTANDING

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA

A L OCAL THERAPIST EXPANDS BEYOND TRADITIONAL THERAPY, HELPING WOMEN BUILD MEANINGFUL, ALIGNED LIVES THROUGH INSIGHT, REFLECTION, AND INTENTIONAL CHANGE

For many women, the desire for something more doesn’t arrive all at once. It builds quietly over time.

For this Upper Westchester-based therapist, Dalia Dahan Kramarz, Psy.D. that awareness came through years of working closely with people not just in moments of crisis, but in moments of reflection. She found herself drawn to a deeper question: what actually helps people live more meaningful, fulfilling lives?

“I’ve always been interested in understanding people not just what they’re struggling with, but what makes them who they are,” she explains. “So much of real change comes from small, intentional shifts.”

While her early career focused on building a respected clinical foundation, her perspective on success has evolved. What once centered around achievement: credentials, structure, and measurable growth has become something more personal.

“Success now feels much more values-driven,” she says. “It’s about building a life and body of work that feels aligned and genuinely my own.”

That shift led her to expand beyond traditional therapy in a way that feels both modern and deeply needed.

After noticing how impactful her therapy-adjacent worksheets were for clients, she launched  A Grounded Life, an Etsy-based platform offering thoughtfully designed tools for reflection, clarity, and personal growth. The goal: to make self-understanding more accessible, even outside the therapy room.

“Not everyone needs therapy,” she explains, “but many people still want to better understand themselves and feel more grounded in their lives.”

Her approach reflects a broader shift happening in how women think about emotional wellness. With more information, expectations, and responsibilities than ever before, many are seeking something deeper than surface-level advice—they’re looking for clarity.

At the core of her work is the belief that self-understanding doesn’t just improve individual lives, it strengthens entire communities.

“So many people move through life on autopilot, quietly unhappy without fully understanding why,” she says. “When people feel more grounded and aligned, they show up differently in their relationships, their work, and their communities.”

That philosophy has become even more meaningful since becoming a mother, a transition that reshaped how she views time, priorities, and boundaries.

“Boundaries aren’t just about saying no, they’re about protecting what matters most,” she explains. “Time and energy are limited, and if you don’t protect them intentionally, they get used up very quickly.”

It’s a message that resonates strongly with women navigating careers, family life, and personal growth simultaneously.

Her advice to the next generation reflects that same clarity: don’t build your life around expectations that don’t feel like your own.

“I see so many women trying to shape themselves around what they think they should be,” she says. “Sometimes the most meaningful path is the one that allows for authenticity, creativity, and growth.”

Looking ahead, she’s focused on continuing to expand her work in a way that feels both creative and impactful. Growing A Grounded Life and developing new tools that help women better understand themselves and their lives.

Because ultimately, she believes emotional wellness isn’t just about fixing what’s wrong, it’s about creating something that feels right.

And sometimes, the most powerful thing a woman can do is give herself permission to become more fully who she already is.

A GROUNDED LIFE

A collection of thoughtfully designed worksheets and reflective tools created to support clarity, self-understanding, and personal growth. Designed for those seeking insight beyond traditional therapy, these resources offer a practical, accessible way to feel more grounded, aligned, and intentional in everyday life.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA

CHOOSING More

Redefining success through wellness, balance, and purpose

For many women, the turning point isn’t dramatic. It’s cumulative.

For Amie Greenberg, founder of Better Body Pulse, it came from a quiet but undeniable realization: most of her waking hours were being poured into building something that wasn’t her own. In the process, she was sacrificing time with family, friendships, and her own well-being.

“I realized I was compromising too much for something that wasn’t fulfilling me,” she says.

Like many high-achieving professionals, Amie once defined success through traditional metrics: job titles, leadership responsibilities, and financial growth. But over time, that definition began to shift.

“Success now is much more personal,” she explains. “It’s about being happy, doing work I’m passionate about, having time for my family, and feeling financially stable.”

That clarity didn’t come without challenges. One of the most important lessons she learned both professionally and personally was the importance of boundaries.

“We all think we can juggle everything,” she says. “But the reality is, we can’t. I used to take on more than I could handle because I wanted to excel. Eventually, I realized that came at a cost.”

Learning to set and maintain boundaries became a turning point, not just in her career, but in how she approached her time, energy, and leadership.

Today, as a business owner, that lesson shapes how she leads. Her approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and

clear expectations, creating an environment where people feel respected, aligned, and motivated.

“Being a woman has definitely influenced how I lead,” she says. “I prioritize listening, understanding, and building a strong team dynamic.”

That same mindset extends into her connection with the local community, which she sees as an essential part of both personal and professional growth.

“Community is about showing up for one another,” she says. “Supporting local businesses, staying engaged, those small actions really do make a difference.”

As she’s built Better Body Pulse, Amie has also redefined what balance looks like in her own life. For her, it starts with intentional habits, taking a few moments each day to reset, reflect, and stay grounded.

“Protecting your time is everything,” she says. “If you don’t do it intentionally, it disappears quickly.”

It’s advice she often shares with younger women navigating their own paths.

“Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there,” she says. “People are more willing to help than you think but you have to be willing to ask. And most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back.”

Looking ahead, Amie is focused on continuing to build a life that feels aligned, one that allows her to support others in their health and longevity while staying connected to what matters most at home.

Because sometimes, the most powerful decision isn’t adding more.

It’s choosing something different.

“I realized success isn’t about titles or money. It’s about doing meaningful work, protecting your time, and building a life you truly enjoy.”

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 2ND

Relay For Life of Chappaqua

Bell Middle School, Chappaqua NY | 12:00 PM

Get ready for Relay For Life of Chappaqua, a community-driven event raising funds for the American Cancer Society, featuring a survivor’s lap, luminaria ceremony, and team walk to honor those affected by cancer. Enjoy fun activities, music, and food while supporting the American Cancer Society.

MAY 2ND

John Jay Homestead Farm Market: Opening Day

Lot 2 (190 Katonah Ave) Katonah NY | 9:00 AM

The John Jay Homestead Farm Market is a weekly outdoor market, providing the finest New York-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits, vegetables, seafood, breads, specialty items and more. Every Saturday, now until November 21st, customers can find certified organic and biodynamic produce, ethically-raised, organic meat and eggs, as well as a variety of artisan food items with dozens of weekly vendors.

MAY 8TH

Solomon Hicks

Caramoor Music Room | 7:30 PM

Feel the energy of Solomon Hicks, the 29-year-old guitar sensation, labeled a “guitarist to watch” by WXPN. A prodigy since picking up the guitar at age six, Hicks blends blues, jazz, and rock with soulful vocals and jaw-dropping technique. A favorite at Caramoor’s 2024 American Roots Music Festival, this rising star returns to breathe new life into classic sounds.

MAY 8TH

Bedford Playhouse Spring Benefit 2026

Bedford Playhouse | 6:45 PM

This unforgettable evening features vocalist and guitarist Felicia Collins, with comedian Brian Scott McFadden opening the night. Bedford Playhouse will honor Gianna and Chazz Palminteri for their dedication to the arts, and Fran and Executive Board Member Douglas Maine for their leadership and service. The celebration supports the Playhouse’s year-round programming and its continued impact on the community all year.

MAY 12TH - 17TH

St. Patrick’s Parish Carnival

7 Pound Ridge Road, Bedford NY | 6:30 PM

St. Patrick’s Parish Carnival returns with everyone’s favorite rides; The Sky Hawk, The Ferris Wheel, and The Dunk Tank! Enjoy fun foods like cotton candy, sausage & peppers, fried dough, and more! The carnival will be held on the school grounds in Bedford, NY. This annual event is a fundraiser for educational and charitable ministries of the Parish.

MAY 17TH

Blythedale Children's Hospital 7th Annual 5K Run/Walk

Horace Greeley High School, Chappaqua NY | 10:00 AM

Blythedale Children's Hospital will hold its 7th Annual 5K Run/Walk, headed by their title sponsor, Artistry Dance Project. This event is the spring fundraiser of the Blythedale Advisory Council, providing an opportunity for people to come together to help children manage significant health conditions and their families. Enjoy food vendors, activities for the kids, and a dance performance.

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