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HOME + DESIGN CATAS T RO P H I C RO O F DA M AG E: T I M E T O I NSPEC T AC E YO U R SPAC E I N 2021

2020 Gift Guide Inside

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Douglas McDermott | douglas.mcdermott@lifestylepubs.com

Joy and Cheer in West Chester During Challenging Circumstances

EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeff Robinson AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read

SO MAYBE THIS 2020 HOLIDAY SEASON ISN’T CHOCK-FULL OF THE TYPICAL

L AYO UT DESIGNER

JOY AND CHEER WE NORMALLY FEEL AT YEAR'S END, BUT THERE ARE STILL

Emily Lisenbee

PLENTY OF REASONS TO COUNT OUR BLESSINGS AND TO LOOK FORWARD TO A FRESH START. Yes, there’s a lot to do, and you want everything to be perfect so your

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Witmer Photography, @WestChesterViews

family and friends know how loved they are. But take a big breath—we're here to help. This month’s issue includes a helpful gift guide for those on your list, as well as treating yourself. We're all about shopping locally and supporting each other. Several of December's features provide ideas about maximizing your indoor and outdoor living space, including trusted and experienced professionals with whom you can consult. Some of our advertising partners also carry many options in clothing, home décor, art, furniture, natural weight management approaches, accessories, artinasal culinary items and handmade custom creations that all make fantastic gifts and stocking stuffers. We hope you'll contact them and brainstorm ideas about perfect presents. Additionally, the same small business owners who've been staples of our community for decades still face grave business challenges due to capacity restrictions and fragile

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

economic conditions, and they need our support now more than ever. We can't com-

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

pletely rely on local, state or federal government for survival -- it's time to support each

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

other in the most creative ways we can.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

This holiday season still provides the chance to believe in others. And, rest assured that

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

we believe in you. Just remember to find time for yourself, too. Your family wants you to be happy and healthy above all else. Happy holidays, West Chester. We can’t wait to see you next year! 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Douglas McDermott, Publisher

ON THE COVER Festive Times on West Chester's Popular Gay Street.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVERYTHINGWC.COM 4

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Chester areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle 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 West Chester Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 12 Love Your Space Closet Factory Provides Splendid, Customized Organization

28 Helpful Nooks And Crannies Secure Built-to-Order Storage For Laundry Rooms, Home Offices, Closets, Kitchens And Wine Cellars

32 Custom Clothiers Making Bespoke Luxury Affordable

28 32

36 Reimagine Your Yard Plan Now With A Custom Design Landscape Firm For 2021

36 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Renovate & Refine

28 Trend Setter 32 Artistâ€™s palette 36 Local Limelight

AROUND TOWN

2020-21 WINTER PREDICTIONS FROM OLD FARMER'S ALMANAC In Pennsylvania, The Old Farmer's Almanac authors predict winter temperatures will be above normal, "which means some typically chilly winter rainy periods." This almanac also predicts the state will see above-average snowfall. The almanac, known for its long-range weather outlooks, moon phases and gardening tips, calls for “sheets of sleet” in the mid-Atlantic and warming trends to dominate in the eastern and northern parts of the United States. Founded in 1792, The Old Farmer's Almanac is the oldest continuously published periodical in North America, according to its website. In fact, the

growing season.” West Chester Borough Police

almanac released weather predictions since George

Department officers joined the Blue Beards for Charity

Washington was president. Each year, when the

fundraising initiative this year to ensure a more char-

authors go back to evaluate the accuracy of their

itable future. The police department supported four

predictions, they generally are 80 to 80.5% valid.

charities through their participation: Unite for Her, The

ZEEKE AND MOOSE JOIN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE IN WEST CHESTER Two young K-9s, Zeeke and Moose, are training

Sambuco Children’s Education Fund, A Child’s Light and the Chester County Crime Victims Center. Donations

were

tax-deductible. In

2019,

this effort raised more than $40,000 for charity.

to become four-legged deputies in the Chester County Sheriff's Office. Their names were selected from 600-plus suggestions sent in by Chester County residents of all ages. These two names reportedly were chosen because they're short, powerful and easy for the dogs to understand. "Response from the community to naming these two dogs was tremendous," adds Sheriff Fredda Maddox. "There were many great choices, and with the names, came many well wishes." A comic book business owner submitted names of superheroes. Families offered names of favorite pets. And many people suggested names with meanings befitting a protector, including Justice and Valor. Many emails came with stories honoring fallen heroes, including the recent loss of Nesta, a K-9 who served on the Philadelphia Search and Rescue Team. The dogs join the current Sheriff's Office K-9 team specializing in detecting missing people, nar-

As a family owned and operated full-service small

cotics or explosives, as well as a K-9 that serves as

animal, avian and exotics hospital, the West Chester-

a comfort dog.

based staff of East Bradford Veterinary Hospital, 712

Dogs currently serving as Chester County K-9s are named Don, Cairo, Marley, Maddie, Luke, Dexter and retired K-9 Yukon.

'BLUE BEARDS FOR CHARITY' POLICE OFFICERS ASSIST FOUR COMMUNITY NONPROFITS With fall leaves and shorter days came “beard 8

'VET APPROVED' CUSTOMIZED PET ORNAMENTS

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

West Neilds St., wholeheartedly recommends a lovely holiday gift: custom pet ornaments. These ornaments are made by Heather Carey, of Fuzzy Me Studios, who is a West Chester native. She creates the ornaments in water color renderings based on real photos of pets shared. For more details, visit FuzzyMeAndFriends.com or call Heather at 484.994.5817.

www.pe r iod a rch ite c tu re ltd . c om

FROM INSPIRATION TO INSTALLATION

OUR FOCUS IS ON YOU

R o m a n s 12 :10

w w w.de a n s-l a nd s c a p ing.c om | W es t Ches t er, Pa |

B FOL L OW U S ON FACEB OOK

LOVE RENOVATE & REFINE

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CLOSET FACTORY

YOUR SPACE CLOSET FACTORY PROVIDES SPLENDID, CUSTOMIZED ORGANIZATION

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

CATAPULT HOME SPACES FROM FUN-

says Charles Palko, general manager of

DAMENTAL TO FANTASTIC, JUST BY

the Closet Factory New Jersey South.

WORKING WITH DESIGNERS AND PRO-

Charles says they provide complimentary

FESSIONALS AT CLOSET FACTORY NEW

consultations and inventory how much each

JERSEY SOUTH.

client has or wants of any given personal item,

They’re collaborating with clients through

such as handbags or shoes, before designing

virtual appointments, and by filling out doc-

a proposed execution with a computer-aided

uments and measurements ahead of time.

program to quickly show clients, either on an

“Customers currently are buying our

electronic tablet if on-site or online if working

products and executions in an exact fashion,

remotely. He adds that each client receives a

getting precisely what they need or want,”

3-D rendering for input and approval.

This design staff handles a large variety of reorganizational spaces: + Closets + Home offices + Wallbeds + Entertainment centers + Pantries + Laundry rooms + Mudrooms + Garages + Wall units + Wine storage + Kidsâ€™ spaces + Craft rooms + Home libraries

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

Each step of Closet Factory’s signature closet design process

Brittany adds that jewelry door units also are being requested

contributes to the ultimate plan of creating custom closets that

this year. They can be accessorized with tie or scarf racks, or valet

are right for each client. Their closet designers act as design

rods. She says about 80 percent of closets have these features.

consultant, professional organizer and project manager all in

“Wallbeds, often called Murphy beds, are making a comeback,”

one, providing key closet organization ideas to help everyone

says Brittany. “They now come with extremely high quality, 8- or

visualize a perfect storage solution. Decorative drawer faces

10-inch mattresses. For many who live in the city, wallbeds are

and doors, moldings, edges, appliqués and trims are all options

being used as primary beds.”

that layer each person’s look, reflecting unique senses of style that truly make a closet personal.

She says wallbeds also are an excellent option for those downsizing or choosing to live in condo environments.

Regarding closets, Brittany Palko-Harris, Closet Factory senior

Closet Factory teams, Brittany assures, address client needs

designer, says the majority of their projects reflect walk-ins, even

in three primary areas: organizationally, aesthetically and

though they do reach-ins, wardrobes and sliding closets as

budgetary. She says they can work with clients to establish

well. Built-in closet hampers are very popular presently, she says.

creative financing.

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

From the design phase to using a new closet usually is a 3- to 6-week process, to allow for Closet Factory’s custom manufacturing. However, Brittany says the actual work completed within clients’ residences is only two to three days. “We’ve had clients who call us from standing inside their closets to tell us they are never leaving the closet again,” Brittany shares with a grin. To help with visualizing potential new spaces, Closet Factory teams have virtual showroom tours, product videos, free guides,

The new normal: Look forward to doing your taxes.

look books, closet stories as real testimonials, as well as tips about the art of organization. Their process is meant to improve clients’ lives, says Brittany. 800.838.7995 ClosetFactory.com/Locations/New-Jersey-South

Prepare@DelphiTMG.com | (484) 928-1715 | DelphiTMG.com

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

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H O L I D AY GIFT IDEAS

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON

WEST CHESTER GUIDE TO 2020 SEASONAL PRESENTS FOR OTHERS...AND PERHAPS YOURSELF

VISUAL EXPANSION GALLERY As a full-service art gallery and custom picture framing shop in downtown West Chester since 1975, this creative team provides fine art prints, historic maps and art cards. Owner Mary Manning delights in carrying a diverse set of gallery art done by local artists. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted many people to dig through old photos. For a unique gift this year, why not secure a VEG gift certificate for photo restoration services regarding those newfound gems? Another gift idea would be custom framing or vintage art posters. And, who can resist being mesmerized by an antique reproduction of a Chester County map? Mary says their West Chester- and county-themed ornaments and coasters make excellent stocking stuffers. “For anyone who’d like a private appointment, we’re happy to meet before or after our hours of typical oper-

Visual Expansion Gallery carries a spectrum of gallery pieces done by local artists, such as "Moons Over Chester County" by Karen Heebner.

ations,” she adds. 132 N. High St. | 610.436.8697 | VisualExpansionGallery.com

ULTIMATE PATIOS Customers have been livening up outdoor living spaces since 2006 with quality, custom furniture from Ultimate Patios. They offer dining sets, chat seating, lounge chairs, firepits, umbrellas and retractable awnings. Owner Kevin Aylward says making decisions this month would be a wise move to get ahead of the necessary lead time for spring 2021 furniture needs. Ask them about their showroom inventory and made-to-order options for patio dining, deck and outdoor bar furniture, as well as accessories. They also can assist with the best ways to clean and protect outdoor furniture. 1301 West Chester Pike, Route 3 | 610.430.2171 | UltimatePatios.com 18

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

Ultimate Patios provides leading outdoor and patio furniture from a variety of manufacturers and collections.

PHINEAS GAGE MEN’S CLOTHING Jaime Weisbrot and Ally Santarelli of Phineas Gage offer several, specific great gift ideas:

These hand-stitched needlepoint items from Phineas Gage Men's Clothing make great stocking stuffers.

+ A Johnnie-O Signature Sully 1/4 zip pairs perfectly with their Prep-Formance button downs, for layering that gives extra warmth and elevates any look. Both the Sully and the Redmond button down sells for $128 each. + Their cozies styles come from the Normal Brand Puremeso collection, which are garments washed with a silicone finish for added softness and comfort. Seasonal colors include mineral blue, stone or rust. These Puremeso Hoodies are $78 each. + Complete any look with Smathers & Branson's unique, handstitched needlepoint accessories. Bottle openers are $28.50 each; key fob: $32.50; cufflinks: $55; and credit card holder: $55 -- all of these items are great stocking stuffers. Additionally, they offer a thorough, curated collection of men’s contemporary and casual wear, with new brands and classic styles. The Phineas Gage team provides free shipping on all orders for more than $100. 29 S. High St. | 484.266.7344 | Phineas-Gage.com

MAINLINE CUSTOM CLOTHIERS One of the most impressive gifts to give a man is a true custom suit, shirt or jacket. “Every man deserves custom-made clothes at least once in his lifetime,” says Larry Albert, owner of Mainline Custom Clothiers. He promises to apply a noticeable level of personal touches to any clothing they produce, making their creations holiday gifts that keep giving long after they’re received. A Mainline gift certificate can fit every size and amount. Larry says first-time buyers receive $200 off their purchase, and alterations are included in the original price which he adds, is “surprisingly affordable.” “Style is what looks best on each person,” explains Larry, who dedicates himself to working with individual customers to identify the best customized options. 129 W. Market St. | 484.905.7098 | MainlineMensCustom.com

GIUNTA’S FURNITURE Did you know Giunta’s carries much more than furniture? Manager Jenna Forte says they also have beautiful, locally made items in the store, such as handmade cutting boards, bowls, dishes, pillows and signs. “There’s always something new on our showroom floor,” she adds. Giunta’s offers stylish and affordable custom upholstery, accessories, home décor, lighting and wall art, too. They also have free offstreet parking. Customers often say the store offers great accessories not seen elsewhere. 513 E. Gay St. | 484.887.8271 | Facebook.com/GiuntasFurnitureWC | Instagram: @giuntasfurniturewestchester

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS (CONTINUED)

BEBALANCED, BE HEALTHY Since this year’s lockdown, many people want to believe their clothes shrunk! However, for those who’d like to pinpoint precisely which foods make them gain rapid weight, a local enthusiast of natural remedies and products can help drill down and customize an all-natural weight loss program. Linda Barilani, franchise owner of BeBalanced Hormone Weight Loss Centers of West Chester and Wyomissing, offers $100 off to any West Chester Lifestyle reader who references this offer and purchases a main BeBalanced package at only one of her two centers by Jan. 1, 2021. “Everyone has particular food items that make them gain extra weight; it can be something as innocent sounding as an apple. It’s vital to know which ones affect each person,” explains Linda. “We’ve found that through our individualized programs -- which balance hormones and reset metabolism -- the average person can lose 12 to 20 pounds in 28 days.” She says lasting results can be achieved by avoiding yo-yo dieting. “This is a whole-foods diet, and our proprietary, all-natural, hormone-balancing supplements, one-on-one coaching, and relaxation tools help you stress less and enjoy life more,” she adds. WestChester@BeBalancedCenters.com | 484.999.2133 | BeBalancedCenters.com

ADORN GOODS Jennifer Steiner's specialty store carries interesting product lines that make unique gifts, ranging from holiday ornaments, stocking stuffers, fine jewelry, hand-painted dishes, linens, collectible toys and gardening items to handmade wooden cutting boards, servers, shoe horns and pens. Looking for food items for special seasonal meals or to give? Adorn Goods carries local honey, jams, pickles, barbecues and artisanal rubs, cheeses, oils, spices and teas. They also have Ladyfingers Caterers' grab-and-go meals, dips or desserts. Jennifer's proud to be one of the few providers of Ladyfingers Caterers' famous, melt-in-your-mouth shaved ham roll hors d'oeuvres. She also recently became the exclusive provider of DC-based Whisked! cookies and Wingfield Digby's pheasant feather-inspired products from London. They have hostess gifts, and provide free gift wrapping. They offer Fraser Fir trees fresh from a Central Pennsylvania farm. 5712 Kennett Pike, Wilmington (Located in historic Centreville) | 302.575.9657 | AdornGoods.com 20

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

Donna Galloway lost 45 pounds following the BeBalanced program, and has no more night sweats. She's now off one of her medications, too.

presents to FA-LA-LA-IN-LOVE WITH One of the main reasons that people exchange gifts is to show others they are thankful for the involvement they have in each other's lives. Picking out a gift for someone is a gesture that tells that person you value her or his presence in your life that particular year. The West Chester Lifestyle team hopes these gift suggestions help complete your list for those special persons, or even as a treat to yourself. 01

USA ROOF MASTERS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON

Catastrophic

Coverage GET ROOF INSPECTIONS, STORM REPAIRS FROM PEACE OF MIND ROOFING COMPANY WITH TRUSTWORTHY REPUTATION

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

ALTHOUGH HOMEOWNERS PAY 35-40% IN PREMIUMS TO INSURANCE COMPANIES PRECISELY FOR EXTERIOR DAMAGE FROM UNFORTUNATE WEATHER OCCURRENCES, MANY ARE RELUCTANT TO OPEN CLAIMS FOR FEAR THEIR INSURANCE RATES WILL BE INCREASED AFTERWARD. However, Tom Kovack, owner of USA Roof Masters of Bensalem, assures that West Chester area homeowners now have an exactly correct time to engage with insurance coverage after two damaging hail storms moved through the region on July 6 and Aug. 23. Close to 500,000 homes were estimated to have been impacted. “Those two storms were designated as catastrophic ones by weather and industry officials, which means it’s illegal for any homeowners insurance companies to raise an individual’s rate after claims are opened on these types of severe storms,” he adds. The USA Roof Masters team specializes in identifying and documenting storm damage from high winds, hail, lightning and “anything else with which Mother Nature may surprise us.” As members of the American Policyholder Association, Tom says he and his staff are happy to guide homeowners through the insurance claim process, emphasizing elements for which insurance premiums generally cover. He adds that homeowners have up to one year to open insurance claims after catastrophic storms. “Unlike wind storms that rip off shingles, which is obvious to see, the damage from hail storms is not visible from the ground level and often doesn’t cause leaks and roof failure until one to three years after storms. This is why a thorough inspection is critical to get within one year, while you still have coverage if damage is discovered.” Tom says their roof inspections are complimentary, and that they include two benefits: an on-the-roof inspection backed by closeup and drone photos, paired with an itemized scope of repair work. “We’ll always tell homeowners right away if they have legitimate roof damage and if it’s worth opening insurance claims. Recommending a CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

CATASTROPHIC ROOF COVERAGE (CONTINUED)

homeowner open a claim without legitimate damage wastes our time and harms our credibility with insurance carriers. We’re vehemently against any type of insurance fraud. It’s not a service to customers, us or anyone involved, frankly, to do anything other than to be honest and open, because we then follow through with insurance adjusters to work through details of the claims and need to be armed with the documentation necessary to file claims,” says Tom. USA Roof Masters of the Bensalem region specializes in residential roofing, commercial roofing and roof inspections. They also offer gutter installation, siding installation and storm damage restoration services. Additionally, USA Roof Masters is an Owens Corning Platinum, GAF Master Elite, and Tesla Solar Glass preferred contractor, for which certification means that USA Roof Masters managers and foremen have passed job and product training by the leading companies in roofing products. They’ve also pledged to recycle old shingles so they don’t end up in a landfill. Tom says they work year-round, as long as there’s no snow or rain on roofs scheduled for inspections. “If inclement weather prevents inspections, we’ll reschedule until we get everyone taken care of,” he adds. 267.332.0197 USARoofMasters.com

“

We change women’s lives! They to 1385 Dilworthtown Crossing, Westcome Chester us feeling as if there is no hope once they CONSULTATIONS are on FREE our program they get their energy back, feel great, combat hot flashes, insomnia and night sweats, and lose weight. It is amazing to watch and the most rewarding I’ve ever had. Could hormones bejob holding you back?

484.999.2133 - Owner, Linda Barilani

FREE HORMONE ASSESSMENT www.BeBalancedCenters.com 1385 Dilworthtown Crossing West Chester, 19382 (484) 999-2133 www.west-chester.bebalancedcenters.com 24

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

DIANE LOST

42 LBS* B EF O R E

Client Elaine lost 26 pounds and was delighted No morethat hother sleep improved flashes, nighther sweats, or overall well-being. mood swings! She feels lighter BeBalanced inside and out. has changed On top of all of this, my life. she kept her weight - Diane off through the covid crisis!

*Actual client. These results reflect those of this particular client, and are based on their individual participation in the Becoming Balanced program. Results may vary.

Brad Abel

South High Street520 S. Bradford Avenue 105 South105 High Street WestPA Chester, West Chester, 19382 PA 19382 West Chester, PA 19382 610-430-1320 610-430-1320 610.436.4101

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pecializing in Window Treatments & Home Decor!

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West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

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TREND SETTER

Helpful Nooks And

SECURE BUILT-TO-ORDER STORAGE FOR LAUNDRY ROOMS, HOME OFFICES, CLOSETS, KITCHENS AND WINE CELLARS

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY WITMER PHOTOGRAPHY

CRANNIES

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

WITH THIS YEAR’S QUARANTINING IN PLACE,

Cabinets and built-in shelves make room for

MANY HOMEOWNERS TOOK STOCK OF THEIR

papers, files, and office supplies. Mark says they

LIVING SPACES AND ARE SEEKING TO MAXI-

also can hang shelves on the walls above and

MIZE USAGE OF ALL THEIR NOOKS AND CRAN-

around desks or other busy areas to create storage

NIES. Purpose and functionality are top objectives

for books, devices and other items.

in rethinking storage spots, as well as entire rooms.

From designing and building at a facility in the

The MK Designs team designs, builds and installs

heart of Pennsylvania Amish country, Mark assures

first-rate kitchen cabinets, customized home offices,

his skilled and detail-oriented team will make the

closets, bathrooms, entertainment rooms and wine

most of clients’ spaces, no matter the setup. For

cellars. “Now’s a great time to schedule a free vir-

example, he adds they’ve begun to build combined,

tual consultation with us and to get plans in place

multifunctional home offices and laundry rooms.

so you can start the New Year off right, knowing

He adds that warmer, varied colors will be on-trend

that you’ll soon be adding clean, organized and

during 2021, and they can assist with new ideas

modern looks to all the unique spots you want,” says

about how to incorporate those comforting hues.

MK Designs owner Mark King. “Given the rise in makeshift home offices, it’s important to remember that, just because a home

Mark assures that they guide clients thoroughly through what to expect in projects related to lead times and potential disruptions.

office space may be small, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. We can apply contempo-

717.474.3630 or 888.365.3891

rary designs that match your purposes while main-

designs@mkdpa.com

taining slender silhouettes,” Mark says.

KitchenCabinetsMK.com CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

Karen Nader Properties

KN Sure Find Farm

karennaderproperties.com

APPLE GROVE ROAD | UNIONVILLE | 18.7 ACRES Historic stone farmhouse, barn and springhouse in a prime location surrounded by conserved properties and the Laurel's Preserve.

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West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

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MAKING BESPOKE LUXURY AFFORDABLE

TAILOR-MADE CLOTHES CREATED BY HONEST, CARING

training experience was wise. Then I soon got a 10 cents per

PROFESSIONALS REFLECT A MYRIAD OF PERSONAL

hour raise, and I was hooked,” he recalls.

TOUCHES THROUGH AND THROUGH -- MAKING THEM

His perseverance paid off, and he made a business for him-

ESPECIALLY GRATIFYING AND PLEASURABLE TO

self that he is quick to say he truly enjoys. “Do what you love,

HAVE. Fortunately, West Chester has a local modiste who

and you’ll never work a day in your life,” he adds.

rejoices from helping others get those types of fabulous looks.

After buying a men’s elite clothing store in 1974, Larry even-

Comfort, functionality, quality and durability in men’s

tually pivoted from making just formal dress suits to more

handcrafted suits and wedding party attire is within reach

sporty attire. That move was followed by expanding into four

at one of the borough’s mainstay businesses. Since 1974,

stores, adding a retail portion, and taking over a custom shirt

Lawrence Albert, owner of Mainline Custom Clothiers, has

business in King of Prussia in 2000. Mainline also offers popular,

dedicated himself and staffers to delivering impeccable fits,

ready-to-wear labels, such as Zegna, Lora Piana, Reda, Adrian

value and uncompromised service.

Jules, Blu Jacket and Bugatchi. “I’ve survived in this business by

“We create great suits that befit men and their life-

changing based on clients’ lifestyles and preferences,” he adds.

styles. Our skilled master tailors handle all of our cutting and

Whether it be made-to-measure, off the rack clothing,

sewing, ensuring precision in all production processes and

formal attire or fine sportswear and accessories, Larry says

paying attention to the details,” assures Larry, who himself

providing honest client service is what it’s all about at his spe-

now can design individual clothes patterns in 10 minutes with

cialty store. “West Chester has great people. Our customers

the assistance of laser cutting technology.

are our friends. Giving them honest feedback, personal tips

“We can make men look 2 inches taller and 20 pounds lighter, just by applying the correct design, style and adjustments,” he says.

and unwavering service keeps them coming back.” Through the years, Mainline has provided tuxedo rentals and sales. Larry says one of their largest growth sectors

After navigating in the bespoke industry for 46 years, Larry

recently has been custom wedding party attire. “Depending

says he knows how to work with everyone’s different body

on selection, you can own a suit for what you pay for rentals. I

shapes and sizes. He remembers always having a passion

believe the custom clothing segment is going to keep getting

for clothing. “After getting out of the Army, I thought about

larger because technology has enabled us to bring prices

going into commercial real estate. But I started training for a

down,” he adds.

clothing business at a rate of $1.50 per hour. I was living with

While Larry fondly reminisces about making custom suits

my parents at the time, so I thought investing into the valuable

for high-powered business executives and celebrities, such as Muhammad Ali, he says every client can have his own classic look with modern flair. For anyone trying to find their own style, Larry promises that he can guide you in the right

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF ROBINSON

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

direction. “I think people really appreciate being able to talk to a real person about their clothing choices, especially when it comes to quality, made-to-order items,” he says.

[Open by Appointment Only for Custom and Wedding Parties] 129 W. Market St., West Chester 484.905.7098 MainlineMensCustom.com

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

SUSAN REISER

C LO U D N IN E PA IN TE R Cloud Nine Studio Gallery Located in Malvern By appointment

v cloud_nine_painter 610-755-5807 reiser.susan@hotmail.com

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

Style By Blain Philadelphia’s premier shoe store. Where you can find the best selection of Alden, Gaziano & Girling and Paraboot for men and women. We also offer custom suits and shirts by appointment! 215.753.2465 FACEBOOK.COM/STYLEBYBLAIN 8433 GERMANTOWN AVE CHESTNUT HILL PA 19118

MAINLINEMENSCUSTOM.COM

formal wear rentals & wedding suits

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Providing you with maximum level of comfort & confidence in every suit!

(484) 905-7098

129 W Market St Frnt West Chester, 19382 CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

REIMAGINE YOUR YARD

PLAN NOW WITH A CUSTOM DESIGN LANDSCAPE FIRM FOR 2021

West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

WITH SO MANY HOMEOWNERS NOW CONSIDERING THEIR RES-

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY

IDENCES AS PERSONAL OASES, THE CALL TO ACTION FOR 2021

COURTESY OF CIDER MILL LANDSCAPES

IS HOW TO BEST CONTINUE REVAMPING OR TO COMPLETELY REDO OUTDOOR RESIDENTIAL SPACES. “Everyone’s thinking about their yards as a whole, and taking stock of what they have and new ways to utilize the space. This is where we come in!” says Hillary Fabe, who heads design for Cider Mill Landscapes, a custom landscape design build firm whose teams provide a variety of solutions, including planting design, horticultural services, custom masonry, hardscaping, landscape lighting, water features and outdoor living areas. “We work closely with all of our clients to fulfill their outdoor needs,” says Cider Mill owner Bob McCusker. “Our team takes a lot of pride in our work, and guarantees satisfaction. We built our business on customer service, and we work closely with our clients from the meticulous design process through the finished product.” As a mostly residential-oriented company, Cider Mill Landscapes was founded by Bob in Garnet Valley during 2007 to provide customized landscape design and construction including stonework, planting, irrigation systems, fencing and walls. With an established customer base in Chester and Delaware counties, the Cider Mill team expanded operations into more neighborhoods along the Philadelphia Main Line -- specifically, Wallingford, Nether Providence, Swarthmore, Media, Berwyn and Villanova. While the Cider Mill crew this year helped customers improve their pool areas, fix their yards or create fire pits, Hillary says customers also added fun activities, such as horseshoe pits and bocce ball setups, to their outdoor spaces. The Cider Mill team implemented more decks, outdoor TVs and retaining walls, as well as expanded patios for extra seating and entertaining. Bob likes to call it art scaping. “This year, we installed more privacy screening elements and arbors, and with deer-resistant plant varieties,” he says. Hillary says they added what she calls “green walls” to create coziness in yards by closing off certain portions, using landscaping as screens to mimic outdoor rooms. “It was a huge year for creating vegetable beds, victory gardens, and sustainable ways to grow food.” she adds. “There’s a growing DIY movement occurring, with more people trying their hand at home gardens. So we built raised beds and installed deer fencing for them and gave them a space to experiment on their own.” Precautions taken by the Cider Mill team during the COVID-19 pandemic included following Centers of Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, masks, gloves, not sharing tools among themselves, transporting themselves only one or two in the same vehicles to jobs and disinfecting their vehicles frequently. “Every customer has a different comfort level, so we cater to that. We’re doing virtual consultations, and some customers still want to meet us on-site. Sometimes, we’re outside talking to them on the phone while they’re inside,” says Bob. He adds that they try to address issues before going to customers’ properties, and they’re using emails and FaceTime quite a bit for communications. Some 2021 landscaping trends predicted include: making interesting

484.574.4666

entryways or natural passageways to yards; creating impressive relaxation

projects@cidermilllandscapes.com

areas; using vintage items to craft stories for gardens; planting selections

CiderMillLandscapes.com

for pollinators; and growing herbs and food. CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

FROM WORK TO WEEKEND WE HAVE YOU STYLED

29 S High St, West Chester • Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 | Sunday 12-4 Shop online at phineas-gage.com! • Follow us on instagram @phineas_gage_wc

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Let Me Help You Puu It AA Together I bring innovative design solutions that will enhance your living space and make you love your home. Best of all, I execute all phases. From initial consultation, to product selection, to ﬁnal installation, I handle every detail. I am a true end-to-end service. So you can be sure your new space will be a dream come true.

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation! Deborah Bettcher Owner | Interior Designer (610) 964-8403 · debbettcher@gmail.com deborah.decoratingden.com

Family Owned and Operated Since 2005 OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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2463 Yellow Springs Road Malvern, Pa | (610) 240-0190

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West Chester Lifestyle | December 2020

Outdoor Living Spaces

302.764.0408

www.disabatinoinc.com

610.361.0595