Wayne, NJ May 2026

Women Making A Difference

S E R V I N G U P Y O U R

S E R V I N G U P Y O U R

B R A N D I N S T Y L E .

B R A N D I N S T Y L E .

Our Women’s Issue

May has always felt like a breath of fresh air in Wayne, bringing with it a sense of renewal and vitality. In this issue, we lean into that energy as we celebrate our annual "Women’s Issue." More specifically, in our cover story, we are honoring Women Who Make A Difference—the visionaries, healers, and leaders who elevate the fabric of our community every single day. They are everywhere, but in this story, we focus on four in particular: Elisa D'Amelio, Sabrina Cosentino, Stefanie Shore and Alexandra Miles. Each is dedicated to changing lives through different avenues, proving that well-being is a multifaceted journey.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, we reflect on the profound impact women have as nurturers and changemakers. Our pages are filled with stories of those who lead with both heart and ambition.

We are beyond thrilled to present an exclusive Lifestyle Publications interview with Becky Hillyard, the powerhouse founder of Cella Jane. While millions follow her for her impeccable fashion sense, it is Becky’s insight into the industry that truly inspires.

We also take you backstage with the Grand Kyiv Ballet. Their world-class performance is fueled by women (and men) who have devoted their entire lives to the art they love.

Additionally, Wayne Pharmacy’s Kristi Yeager provides an essential service to our female readers, offering clarity and support on navigating the often-misunderstood symptoms of menopause.

In our business features, we celebrate those breaking glass ceilings (or should we say floors?). Jennifer Wylie, owner of Floor Coverings International in Clifton, has risen to the top of a typically male-dominated industry. Her stories, "On Solid Ground” and “Wall-To-Wall Trust," are masterclasses in building a reputation on integrity and excellence. We also go "behind the design" with Hanna Kern of NJ Living. You’ve seen her stunning interior design work; now, discover why she was truly "Destined To Design."

Finally, for the modern entrepreneur, Jamie Johnson of Officially Social shares expert tips on growing a social media following organically—empowering women to find their digital voice.

Whether they are leading a boardroom, a household, or a stage, the women in this issue remind us that making a difference starts with passion.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms out there.

Miss You Mom!

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Phillip Barone | phillip.barone@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Don Seaman | don.seaman@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jamie Johnson | jamie@officiallysocial.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Don Seaman, Jennifer Gallo, Kristi Yeager, Matthew Sousa, Jamie Johnson, Kali Kasorzyk, Mel Boban

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Agnello Photography and Video, Jennifer Wylie, Phillip Barone, Fisk Foto, Jamie Johnson

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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 introduction.

Joe’s Realtor Alley

The profile of the first-time homebuyer has shifted dramatically over the last 40 years, reshaping today’s housing market. In 1985, married couples comprised 75% of first-time buyers; by 2025, that figure had dropped by 25%. This reflects a broader trend of delayed marriage, pushing the average age of first-time buyers into the 40–44 range.

Single buyers now hold a significantly larger market share. Purchases by single women have increased by 14%, while purchases by unmarried couples are up 7%. Interestingly, the share of single male buyers has remained nearly stagnant.

The impact is clear: more individual households are competing for the same limited inventory. In regions like Northern New Jersey, where housing supply is already critically low, this change in buyer composition intensifies competition. These demographic shifts are a primary driver in keeping home prices elevated, as the market struggles to accommodate a more diverse and growing pool of independent buyers.

Pete’s Mortgage Corner

Here’s a number worth celebrating: single women now represent 20% of all homebuyers nationwide, making them the second-largest buying demographic behind married couples. Among first-time buyers, that number jumps to nearly one in four.

To put this in perspective, it wasn’t until 1974 that women could legally obtain a mortgage without a cosigner. In just fifty years, we’ve gone from requiring permission to leading the market.

What I’ve observed working with women buyers is that the most successful transactions share a common thread: a trusted team. Having a realtor who listens, a lender who explains every option clearly, and an attorney who protects your interests makes all the difference. You don’t have to navigate this alone, and you shouldn’t.

If you’re considering homeownership and want to talk through what the process looks like, I’m always happy to connect.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Visited Angeloni's new location - Angeloni's On Lake Mohawk! 2: Some of the best wings we ever had 3: The Thinny-Thin is still legendary!

4: Walk into an out-of-the-way wrestling match and who is the star? 5: It's Azrieal, superstar wrestler and our former pro-wrestling trainer!

6: Azrieal had a crowd around him as he posed for photos. Love This Guy! 7: BeSure members cheered on Peter D'Angelo at Blackjack Mulligan's on Saint Patrick's Day.

Picture This

Student Photo Bonus

“Spectacle Of Nature”

ELENA RUA

Wayne Valley High School

STRAIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

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

Dance for the World

At a certain point in nearly every little girl’s life, they dream of being a ballerina.

For only a very select few, that dream lasts a lifetime.

That happened for Emma Keyes, a dancer with the Grand Kyiv Ballet. She began when she was only three years old, when her mother enrolled her in ballet because she wanted her to have fun. But her dream didn’t start there. It wasn’t until she was 10 years old that she watched a ballet documentary, and the dream kicked in hard. She knew right then that this was what she wanted to do.

Emma’s story is just one from the 48 members of the two Grand Kyiv Ballet touring companies in the United States. Her East Coast touring troupe recently finished its six-month tour, including a performance of Swan Lake at the Shea Center for Performing Arts here in Wayne, and we were lucky enough to be invited backstage for a behind-thescenes look at the production for what happens offstage.

While audiences see the delicate, sophisticated power of ballet, what goes unseen are the sacrifices they make. These dancers portray beauty flawlessly. Physically, they are truly undercelebrated world-class athletes - their impressively toned physiques are far more apparent when you see them up close.

Backstage, between scenes, they come off stage drained and exhausted, dripping with sweat. And after only a minute or so to regroup and recover, they head back out on stage with no loss of performance. Their art looks effortless and elegant, yet it comes from a determination and dedication that’s beyond words.

This is inner strength. Fortitude. Women who push themselves beyond the best they can be.

It’s a grueling schedule. Six months on the road. Every night, a new city and another performance. An hour after each show, they’re back on the road, traveling sometimes for hours to a new state before settling into yet another hotel for some rest, to be ready to perform again.

“As many hard days as there are. I love what I do. I really do,” Emma admits. “It's a privilege to be on stage every day. Not a lot of dancers get that opportunity, and for those that do, not many of them get this kind of opportunity. It is definitely a gift that I cherish.”

The

Grand Kyiv Ballet Celebrates Women of Grace Everywhere

“There is probably a difference between a touring company, like the one that I'm in, and a standard national company. By being part of a touring company, I feel that I’ve learned so much about not only professional life, but touring life, myself, my limits, and how much I can push myself as a dancer. I’ve learned how to stand up for myself and how to not be scared of trying new things. I have to admit that I'm proud of myself, seeing that growth from October to now.”

They perform in intimate, small settings as well as on grand stages. Symphony Hall in Atlanta, where they performed The Nutcracker, Emma says, was massive. The Emerson Colonial Theater in Boston has 1,700 seats. Like most of their performances, Swan Lake was a sellout there.

During their bows in Boston, the emotion of it all hit Emma hard.

“I was ready to cry. I just...I've never performed for so many people. It was just so heartwarming to get a standing ovation in front of so many people. Sometimes you get these kinds of moments where you're thinking, ‘there's no way I'm doing this. This is crazy. How is this happening?’”

“I’ll always remember seeing an elderly couple in the front row of one of our performances. Everyone had gotten up to give a standing ovation. And these two were struggling to get up. But they managed to stand up and join the standing ovation. I

burst into tears. That was it for me. Elderly people coming to watch our show really touches me on another level.”

Grand Kyiv Ballet is led by General Director and Founder Oleksandr Stoianov and Artistic Director Viktor Tomashek, each being remarkably elite dancers in their own right. Their efforts help rebuild facilities and dormitories for dancers in Kyiv, and also help advance the tradition of ballet globally.

“The company’s roots started with a lot of Ukrainian dancers, but the company has expanded so much that they've considered themselves now an international ballet company,” Emma, Serbian-Canadian by birth, explains. “The dancers come from all over the world.”

These remarkable athletes have come together to become who they were meant to be. They dance for themselves, they dance for each other, they dance for the world. Their time together has made them a close-knit, international family who laughs, cries, and experiences life together.

What they’ve put together is breathtaking - and not just what you see on stage.

To find out more about the Grand Kyiv Ballet, go to their website (grandkyivballet.com.ua/en/) for information about upcoming performance schedules. You can even purchase costumes and set pieces from past performances.

FOUR WOMEN, ONE MISSION

WELLNESS,

WORTH, AND HOPE

May is a month of renewal and promise. Mother Earth is sloughing off the cold damp of her winter months and we’re all awakened to fresh, hopeful beginnings. And that’s exactly why May is the perfect month to celebrate the vibrant, dynamic women leading

so much change, progress, and growth in our local communities. Women have long known that wellness and wisdom go hand in hand and this month we are shining a light on four strong, resilient women as they lead the charge for change, locally.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER GALLO

Elisa D'Amelio and Sabrina Cosentino

Elisa D’Amelio is a mental health advocate and author of From Broken, to Beautifully Broken , published in 2023. According to Elisa, “your traumas don’t have to define you. You can turn grief into growth and use that as a catalyst for transformation into your best self.” Her book and its remarkable impact in and beyond our community inspired her to create a more far-reaching platform.

She and her partner, Sabrina Cosentino, established the annual Wellness Gala to raise funds for programs in the mental health space but also to create a place of healing that attendees can return to. In Elisa’s words: “It’s a night of fun and connection. Part of healing is knowing you’re not alone. This is about sparking conversations that are often shrouded in shame. We want to dismantle that stigma and bring people together in hope and in health.”

Sabrina is a powerhouse in her own right; founder of Within by Sabrina, an integrative coaching organization with an emphasis on holistic health, she told me: “Having started out my professional career in pharmaceutical sales, I worked closely with physicians, and the primary means of treating patients in pain and in need was treating the symptoms; most often, with medication. I just knew there was a better, more natural way to approach wellness

by breaking issues down to their root causes.” Sabrina followed that instinct and her passion and enrolled at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition where she was certified and now practices as an integrative health coach.

These two extraordinary women serve as co-hosts and committee members of the Wellness Gala (wellnessgala. org ), an event dedicated to celebrating resilience, raising awareness, and demystifying the stigma surrounding mental health. This year’s festivities take place on May 15, 2026. Proceeds will directly support The JED Foundation’s mental health initiatives.

When I asked Sabrina what sets this gala apart, she said: “This year, we’re intent on creating a space for support – not just on the night of the Gala – but beyond that. Our gala is a meeting place where you’ll see familiar faces year after year, creating a shared community of hope and resilience.” Elisa agreed, “It’s a positive, collaborative opportunity to network with individuals who have lived through a similar experience or who genuinely care about the cause. This network spurs a conversation about what we’ve endured, what has worked, what hasn’t worked, how some of us pivoted. THAT lived experience lends a credibility that resonates with so many people.”

When I asked Sabrina what success looks like to her, she described the change she sees in her clients: they feel better in their bodies, are more mentally focused, and spiritually grounded. “And when it comes to the gala, success is when people leave but take along with them a deep sense of belonging.” Elisa agreed. “Personally, when I get emails from strangers telling me that I’ve made a difference for them in recovery – that’s some level of success in this work. As far as the Gala, it’s exactly what Sabrina said – the ongoing forward-reaching conversation coming out of the gala – that’s our success.”

Both women are mothers who view their future initiatives through the lens of their roles as caregivers. Elisa envisions creating an online platform that meets monthly so that those in the community have a sense of continuity and shared space to heal, vent, support, and grow together.

Alexandra Miles

Alexandra Miles is a filmmaker, mental health advocate, business strategy consultant, and college tour and Fortune 500 corporate event speaker making a huge impact in our area and beyond. Her film, Project Blackbird, was really just the launching pad, she told me.

“The film tour doesn’t just aim to de-stigmatize mental health conversations. It’s about using that platform to make an impact for real change, so I shaped the success of the film into a program that offers actual concrete resources that weren’t necessarily available to me in my time of need.” Alexandra’s mission is all about the power of storytelling. Her program features a 45-minute panel with professional athletes, actors, artists, and other role models sharing their lived experience, after which students are invited to share their own stories. Project Blackbird ( projectblackbirdinc.org ) provides journal prompts so that everyone is invited to share a message of hope to be left behind for a stranger — and they are encouraged to take one written by a stranger among them. Every student in the audience is offered a full year of therapy at no cost, coupled with a resource fair curated for that specific audience — local partnerships with gyms, community spaces, banks assisting with financial literacy, and campus life resources for attendees

combating loneliness, homelessness, and other issues that can worsen without immediate support.

When I asked Alexandra what sets Project Blackbird apart, she didn’t hesitate. “We are intent on reaching more people by collaborating on the local level.” One such collaboration led to her working closely with Elisa D’Amelio to create an awareness event here in New Jersey. “It is Project Blackbird’s goal to amplify the resources within each school and each community — to take what they’re already doing and enhance it so that it’s not just about awareness — it’s about follow-up and actual support that impacts those living there. Our efforts are locally based, but they’re also universally relatable.”

When we talked about success, Alexandra shared a story about an early event at the University of Texas, Austin, where two girls told her their roommate hadn’t gotten out of bed in weeks — but she was there that day. “We showed up for someone and she saw herself in us. And she left knowing that she was not alone.” Project Blackbird recently began working with the Department of Education on an HBCU tour, with plans to reach 74 colleges and universities within the next two years. “We want students to recognize that their heroes aren’t perfect; they struggle, too. We want them to know they are not alone.”

Stefanie Shore

Stefanie Shore is a strategic healthcare leader, a board-certified nurse practitioner, adjunct graduate nursing professor at William Paterson University, and health and wellness speaker. Whatever hat she’s wearing, she delivers with an expertise that honors collaboration, accountability, and integrity. Mentorship has always been incredibly important to Stefanie. “As an alumna of William Paterson, it means a lot to remain close to the university and to mentor the next generation of clinicians. I’ve also had the privilege of working with the Pesce Foundation, which focuses on supporting and empowering young women through education and leadership. Programs like that remind me how powerful guidance and encouragement can be early in someone’s life.”

Stefanie is also founder and owner of The Reset Consulting, LLC, whose mission centers around health and wellness coaching, mindset and self-worth enhancement, and life transitions support. “It’s not about changing who you are. It’s about bringing out the unique qualities that already exist within you — accepting who you are, showing up for yourself, and growing into the next version of your life. I’m honored to be an incoming board member at JBWS (Jersey Battered Women’s Shelter); I’m a strong ambassador for their mission. My goal has always been to be a voice for people who feel like they don’t have one. I truly believe that when you live generously and help others, abundance follows.”

A NJ resident for nearly 20 years, Stefanie is proud to call Wayne her home. “It’s where I’ve raised my family and built my career. Being able to care for people in my own community makes the work even more meaningful. Where I hope to make a difference is helping make our community healthier and creating spaces where people feel comfortable talking about hard things. When people feel seen, supported, and connected to each other, that’s when a community really becomes stronger.” When I asked Stefanie how she views her various roles in the context of her community, she told me: “For me, it’s less about changing the community and more about recognizing the good that’s already here. There are so many incredible people doing meaningful things, and sometimes the most important thing is simply shining a light on them.”

We at Wayne Lifestyle couldn’t agree more! We are delighted to honor these four remarkable women who are changing the landscape of our shared community — leading with health, healing, and hope.

Destined to Design

For Hannah Kern, The Path To Success Was An Interesting Road

When you hear about a seven-year-old who has their own business card, you might think that this is a kid who knows exactly what she’s going to do with her life.

It said ““Hannah Elizabeth OlppFurniture Kid.”

But that bit of childhood foreshadowing didn’t last.

Instead, she found herself drawn to fashion design. She wanted to become a lifestyle brand. A Ralph Lauren. She eventually scored an internship with Ralph Lauren to boot. She spent eight years as a fashion designer for Macy’s. She was on the road she’d planned.

But the fashion industry was changing, what was haute and lasting morphed into what was disposable and fast fashion.

It was time for a major pivot.

Her husband Scott picked up on her ongoing interest in real estate. She’d had a passion for it whenever they traveled, checking Zillow listings the way other people scope out restaurant reviews. He suggested that maybe getting her real estate license would be what she could do.

So she did. She left Macy’s and fashion for home sales. And she was killing it. She found herself in her zone.

But then things got interesting. They decided to put an addition on their house. And she became the first person in history to come out the other side to say “that was so fun!”

She’d missed the creativity of the design world.

When her mother moved, they renovated her kitchen. Another jolt. And when a neighbor did an addition to their home, she asked if she could be involved. She took on the role of project manager.

She’d found her purpose. She had design. She had real estate. She had furniture. Creativity. She found it all.

And she found something else. Clarity.

Change does not equal failure.

“You're allowed to reinvent yourself if something isn't working,” Hannah says.

“I think there's something to admitting what you're in isn't right and figuring out what is,” Hannah explains. “Pivoting is scary. But I'm so happy I did.”

“I really had to convince myself that leaving fashion wasn't a failure. I didn't fail at it. I was actually doing really well. I was managing a huge business with multiple direct reports, but it just wasn't the right fit anymore. The pivot got me out of my rut and just shook things up and got me  into real estate. Then that led me into interior design. I don't know if I would have done that had I not been in houses for two years selling real estate. Everything sort of lined up the way that it needed to, to get me to where I am today.”

While she was having success, it wasn’t right for her.

“Just because you're not doing what you initially thought you were going to do at 16 doesn't mean you failed at anything. Sometimes you have to do those things to get you to where you're going to be happiest for the long term.”

“When you focus on the positive things, that changes your perception of it being ‘failure’. It’s evolution.”

“I know that if I didn't work at Macy's and I didn't go through eight years basically as a project manager, I don't know if I'd be able to execute my jobs as well as I do. Because I learned how to prioritize, I learned how to work a calendar and keep everyone in the loop. I learned how to manage multiple groups of people, how to make sure we stayed on time, how to communicate well so that everyone knew what was going on. That all came from my fashion design background. And I wouldn't be able to do my current job without that.”

“Everything builds for a reason,” she says. “It's not a waste of time just because even if it's not what you're currently doing, that doesn't mean that it wasn't right, because it was right for that time. You're building pieces of your success.”

Now, Hannah’s happier than she’s ever been, which is really saying something for such an upbeat, positive-skewing person. She and her husband have two beautiful daughters and she has a thriving interior design business, NJ Living By Design.

She looks at her consultations with clients as a “vibe check”. “Are we going to want to work together? Are you going to want to spend a lot of time with me for the next three months because you're going to? Are you going to be annoyed when you see my name on your caller ID, or are you going to be excited. That’s a big deal.”

It sounds like Hannah’s going to need some updated business cards. “Hannah Kern - Furniture Adult.”

And purveyor of positive vibes. - and that’s something that will never change. It evolves.

You can see more of Hannah’s work and do your own vibe check on her website, njlivingbydesign.com, give her a call at (215)2661500, or visit @NJ_livingbydesign on Instagram.

ON SOLID

ground

A Husband, A Wife, and a Reinvented Life

Trust is a many-faceted emotion. It’s a byproduct of faith, and a cousin of results. It’s a triangle that has no real beginning - you need to just jump right in, which is what Jennifer Wylie and Sean Anderson did when their professional lives simultaneously became unstable. It was time to replace that third triangle wall.

Yet they had trust and faith in themselves. Jennifer had been an HR Director for a $6 billion, multi-brand,global fashion company. Her husband, Sean, was a project manager for a worldwide food delivery company, managing a $4 million food route in the city. They each commuted daily to Manhattan for their executive careers. Then one day (yes, in 2020), that came to a screeching halt for both of them. But they both knew that they were capable of delivering results. It would just take some small adjustments.

The “small adjustment” came in a way that neither one of them had any experience with. At all.

“I knew in my heart that this was the time to change things,” Jennifer says. “I knew I was ready to have more control over what happened to me, to us. So we decided to look into a business that we could build together.”

They ultimately found it in investing in a franchise that spoke to them, in an area that neither of them had any experience with whatsoever. They went into flooring.

Cue the “from the ground up” clichés.

They both went from successful lives lived on a global scale to something unproven and local as there could be. Now, they’ve built a flourishing flooring installation business with their Floor Coverings International franchise.

It was a new experience for them, but they had faith in themselves that this would be where they could thrive.

“My biggest fear was that I’d be lonely,” admits Jennifer. “I was with people all day long, talking all day. I thought I’d have no one to talk to. But it’s just the opposite. Stepping into this role, I’ve met so many people, gotten involved at the community level. I'm out networking all the time. I have met just the most amazing people, small business owners, nonprofits that I like to work with. My life is so much more enriched now by the extracurriculars that I do than it ever was holding a nine to five”

While Jennifer has thrown herself headlong into marketing their Floor Coverings International business, Sean has set his

feet firmly into the products they offer. You’d never know that five short years ago, this was a whole new world for him.

“He’s educated himself about everything,” Jennifer boasts. “I'm always amazed when I hear him start talking to our vendors or the installers. I think, ‘I can't believe you know all of this.’ He’s completely memorized all of the data, all of the product information. He really has become the expert in all of this.”

One might even say she’s floored by how much he now knows about floors.

That’s what makes them such a good team. They each trust in the strengths each brings to the life that they’re reinventing.

“Our skill sets complement each other,” she says. “He does things that I don't want to do, and I do things that he doesn't want to do. That helps us to be able to do what we do together. And we really do a pretty good job of staying in our lanes and making it work that way.”

Sean concurs. “We balance each other well. We make up for each other‘s weaknesses and recognize each other‘s strengths.. She makes my job easier in that way and hopefully I’m doing the same for her because we can count on each other to focus on our own purpose and reach our goals.”

And Jennifer has even found a surprise about working with her husband that she didn’t expect. “Since I’ve been working with him, I have to admit that I actually trust his judgment more. It took a little while because I have a really controlling personality. He’d probably tell you that that took about five years, but I’ll say that it only took me two.”

Sean has also found something in starting a business with his wife.

“Beyond the business side, she is the heart and soul of everything we do,” he confesses. “My amazing wife approaches every challenge with positivity, patience, and a genuine desire to help others. She balances the many responsibilities of running a business with grace, always keeping our family values at the center of our work. I’m incredibly grateful to build this company alongside her, and together we strive to create not just beautiful floors, but a business rooted in trust, hard work, and the love we share for what we do.”

That certainly sounds like pretty solid ground this husband and wife team are on.

BY JOHN AGNELLO

WALL TO WALL TRUST

Jennifer and Sean launched their Floor Coverings International business only five years ago. But in that short time, they’ve built a reputation for high-quality service that’s in high demand throughout the area. They’ve quickly established themselves as a community-driven company that works quickly and efficiently.. Their business specializes in flooring installation. Their forte isn’t in design, it’s in product and execution. But how they deliver that is something that most others simply can’t.

What sets Jennifer and Sean’s business apart is avoiding delays that often plague these projects. While most flooring companies rely upon a system of consultations, catalogs, delayed orders, shipping problems, and product backlogs, Floor Coverings International brings their products directly to your home or business in a customized van, allowing you to see exactly the product you’ll be getting firsthand.

Their spacious warehouse in Clifton avoids the shipping delays that can derail and prolong flooring projects. And since you deal directly with the product experts, you’ll know exactly what you’ll get, how long it will take, and what would work best for your needs.

They don’t design. They simply get the job done right, exactly how you want to see it done, and give firsthand advice about what will work best for you.

A floor is the anchor that sets the decor of any indoor space. It’s not something to try to visualize based upon generic pictures. It’s far better to see exactly how flooring will look in your space - with your lighting, your decor, how it impacts the energy you’re trying to create.

Floor Coverings International will make sure that you’re quickly standing on very solid ground.

You can find out more about Jennifer and Sean’s business by calling 973574-3132 or on their franchise website at floorcoveringsinternational. com/locations/us/nj/metro-new-jersey. They’re based in Clifton.

THE social BUSINESS WOMAN

JamieJohnson,

owner & CEO of OfciallySocial

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE JOHNSON

If you're a female business owner, you know social media is more than just viral dances and brunch selfies. It's a powerful tool for influence, community, and business growth.

Figuring out how to grow a following organically can feel overwhelming. Many assume it's about the numbers: the more followers, the better, right? But the truth is, it's not just about quantity — it's about building quality content, engagement, and connection. A strong, engaged audience can help you build credibility, expand your reach, and attract the right clients, without relying solely on paid ads, if at all. Organic growth takes time, but when done strategically, it sets the foundation for long-term success.

Here's how female entrepreneurs can grow their social media following authentically and effectively:

1. Post Consistently: Consistency is key, not perfection. Share lessons learned from your experience, behindthe-scenes moments, or quick tips that reflect your expertise. Owning a business is a journey your audience wants to be a part of.

2. Use Hashtags Smartly: Hashtags aren't dead — they've just evolved. Today, they're signals to help algorithms understand and categorize your content. Instead of loading posts with dozens of generic hashtags, focus on 3–5 niche, relevant keywords that attract people already interested in your own niche.

3. Engage Authentically: Social media is meant to be social! Reply to comments, answer DMs, and interact with other creators' posts. This builds trust and reciprocal engagement, which signals the algorithm to show your content to more people. Try asking questions in your captions or hosting informal polls to develop a loyal, active community.

4. Collaborate with Other Business Owners: Partnerships are one of the fastest ways to grow organically. Identify entrepreneurs or creators whose audience aligns with yours and collaborate on joint posts, live sessions, or giveaways. It's an easy, free way to build relationships and credibility within your niche.

5. Share Yourself: Nothing resonates more than authenticity. Share personal photos, testimonials, or stories about your background or challenges. This kind of "personally professional" content demonstrates a realness and vulnerability people are genuinely seeking on social media.

6. Post With Purpose: Every post should serve a clear purpose. Focus on the specific needs, pain points, and goals of your audience. For example, if you're a female real estate agent, instead of general home-buying tips, explain how property taxes impact monthly payments in your area or share local market insights. Specific, actionable content gets saved, shared, and remembered.

7. Optimize Your Profile: Your profile is your digital storefront. Make sure it clearly communicates who you are, what you do, who you serve, and includes a call-to-action like a website link or free resource. A polished profile helps new followers understand your value immediately — increasing the chance they'll stick around.

8. Leverage B-Roll Footage: Video dominates social media, especially on Instagram and TikTok. Short-form video is highly engaging and favored by algorithms — and you probably have more content on your phone than you realize. These don't need to be perfectly edited; they just need to speak to your audience.

FINAL THOUGHTS

As a female entrepreneur, your time is precious and your expertise is valuable. Growing your social media following organically takes time, but it's the most sustainable path to meaningful engagement and business growth. Try implementing even a few of these strategies consistently, track your results, and remember: your followers are people who want to connect with your expertise and your story. That connection will always drive growth — faster, stronger, and more meaningfully than any paid ad ever could.

Jamie Johnson is the owner & CEO of Officially Social, a full-service social media agency for small to mid-size businesses. Their goal? Helping business owners simplify social media with strategies that are as creative as they are data-driven. Drawing on experience across multiple industries, Jamie and her all-female team create content that not only looks great but also generates results, helping business owners connect & grow with the right audience.

Learn more at officiallysocial.com or email her directly at jamie@ officiallysocial.com

DIY DAY

INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

WITH MOM

An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.

01 Charm Necklaces

Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.

02 Interview Journaling

Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.

03 Meal Prep

Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!

menopause and 2026 woman

When

The Change Comes, There Are Ways To Endure It Gracefully

"The Change", or what's more officially known as Menopause, is a term we've heard tossed around for years. We can look at the entire breadth of women's health in a trifecta of three separate parts.

The first stage is the prepubescent stage, prior to a girl's first menstrual cycle. The second stage begins at the start of a woman's first menstrual cycle and is critical for reproduction. Perimenopause can happen during this stage — think of it as a precursor to the main event, affecting things like fertility. The final stage is menopause, where menstrual cycles become more unpredictable, spread out, or non-existent. The age range of these stages varies greatly based upon genetics, environmental factors, stress, certain medications, and/or any underlying health issues.

Hormone imbalances often wreak havoc on day-to-day functioning, and menopause has equally tough effects on a woman's body and wellbeing. There are some amazing advances in the medical world to help, and if you find yourself in the thick of menopause, you're not alone.

HOT FLASHES, MOOD CHANGES, AND HAIR LOSS, OH MY!

Menopause is most commonly portrayed in movies and sitcoms with jokes about hot flashes and mood swings. Other common symptoms can include hair thinning, weight gain, libido changes, night sweats, and trouble sleeping. These are not glamorous — and make many women feel like they are not themselves. Some symptoms are even described as "debilitating", but it doesn't have to be!

ARTICLE BY KRISTI YEAGER

Health professionals can prescribe hormone replacement therapy, anti-depressants, GLP-1s, and estrogen creams, which have great success helping women navigate these changes. Unfortunately, many pills and patches have been on back order, yet Wayne Pharmacy and Surgical Supplies has been able to help our customers receive the help they need.

When prescriptions aren't an option, women come into the pharmacy for support. We encourage our patients to supplement with vitamins and minerals, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle. "We are carrying a new line of CBD gummies with melatonin that can promote sleep and relaxation," says Pharmacist In Charge, Tatiana Quiroz. Caltrate Women's Vitamins can support the body through all of its changes, and Vitamin D can greatly improve bodily functions and support bone health. "We have all kinds of over-the-counter options to try, and if you need more support, we can help fill the prescriptions sent over by your doctor," says Quiroz.

Sherry S., a 53-year-old woman, explained that her symptoms began somewhere between 40–45, with hot flashes being her very first sign. She was prescribed an antidepressant and feels well supported by her primary care provider, though she still struggles with sleep deprivation. Our team recommended she try the CBD sleep support gummies we carry in store.

TRUST YOUR GUT

Did you know gut health has a direct correlation to how your body responds to hormonal changes? When estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, your GI system can be greatly impacted. According to a recent UK study, 94% of women reported experiencing digestive health symptoms during menopause. Adding a daily probiotic, in combination with healthy eating, might be a missing piece of the puzzle.

Jennifer S., a 47-year-old woman who started menopause in her early 40s, struggled to feel supported until she addressed her gut health. "Until I found Melaleuca Vitality for Life probiotics, menopause was causing such havoc on my gut. It was a constant rollercoaster." Jennifer found peace when she began supporting her gut health.

Taking your health into your own hands is the first step, and will greatly empower the woman inside of you to be your BEST SELF. Knowledge is power — get informed today!

Wayne Pharmacy and Surgical Supplies is located at 1055 Hamburg Turnpike, or you can find them online at waynepharmacy.com , and Facebook or Instagram @waynepharmacy.

DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES

ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA

Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.

CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 eggs, separated

• 1¾ cups milk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1.  In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

4.  In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions:

Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.

This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!

BREAKFAST Mother’s Day