Upper Makefield February 2026

UpperMakefield

THE SWEET LIFE CHOCOLATIERS

A Love of Pop Art

SENDING WARM THOUGHTS

WWE’VE ARRIVED at February, and while temperatures may be frigid, our hearts warm up this month with the overarching theme of love. We have some wonderful features to share with you in this issue, from art and chocolate to music and more.

Upper Makefield resident Perry Milou is both a local and national treasure. He experienced notoriety across Philadelphia and the nation when he was named the official portrait artist for Pope Francis’ visit to America in 2015. Perry’s art reminds us of the possibilities of the human spirit. His “Hearts” series goes beyond the reach of the art lover alone, touching the hearts of so many. We are very lucky to have such talent in our community, and we hope you enjoy reading about Perry’s incredible spirit and fabulous work.

It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without chocolate, and we are likewise fortunate to have Donna and Doug

Haines and their Belgian-based delicacies in our midst. Their love of chocolate has made Newtown Chocolatiers a popular stop—not just on Valentine’s Day but any day the craving for something sweet strikes. We’re happy to share this couple’s love for one another—they have been married for 47 years— and their amazing confections.

While a duel often indicates confrontation, in the case of dueling piano duo Jennie and Steve Luhmann, it represents their love for music, each other, and entertaining. A local treasure, the couple has been delighting audiences with piano, song, and dueling requests. Valentine’s Day feels like the perfect time to shine a light on this special pair.

This issue is full of many other seasonal stories, too. Nothing says love like a rose, and we’re delighted to share the special ways this spectacular bloom can be displayed for the holiday. Perhaps you’re looking for love; if so, you’ll want to meet Brigette Weil and learn about her thoughtful approach for those seeking someone special. As winter weather can be tough on our skin, read about the causes of seasonal skin challenges and ways to soothe and soften. And while not everyone cherishes snow, if sledding is your love, don’t miss our guide to the best local spots for wintertime fun. As always, be sure to check out the latest books on our radar and other local happenings.

Wishing everyone a month full of love and happiness, along with plenty of cozy moments during this mid-winter season.

Xoxo,

Laura Lazar Publisher

P.S. Please reach out if you have any stories you would like to recommend for a future issue.

Upper Makefield MAGAZINE

Publisher Laura Lazar

Laura.Lazar@uppermakefieldmag.com

Local Editor

Dari Kotzker editor@uppermakefieldmag.com

Writers

Alicia Bonner

Rafael Novoa

Liz Young

Photographer

Juan Vidal Photography

Expert Contributors

Greg Dwornikowski

Anthony Petsis

Dominique Williams

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman

Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

SVP, Group Publisher

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Executive Editor

Elaine Quilici

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate

Griff Dowden

Upper Makefield magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Upper Makefield Township, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Upper Makefield Business Association

President Harry Barfoot (second from left) pictured with Seasons Garden Center staff

The Upper Makefield Business Association recently held its annual coat drive. The organization set up bins at local business establishments and collected 300 coats, which will be delivered to various locations and individuals.

A SPECIAL SHOPPING EVENT

Upper Makefield magazine hosted a holiday shopping event at Commonplace Reader and Giana Rose on Dec. 14. Proceeds will support programs being planned by Washington Crossing Historic Park for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

A SNOWY REENACTMENT

Washington Crossing Historic Park held the First Crossing Reenactment event on Dec. 14. Despite several inches of snow and low river levels that prevented the boats from launching, over a thousand visitors gathered along the Delaware River to take part in this powerful annual tradition.

HONORING OUR VETERANS

Upper Makefield Fire Company firefighters were honored to participate in the Wreaths Across America event at Washington Crossing National Cemetery on Dec. 13. Open to the public, this annual ceremony includes volunteers placing remembrance wreaths on veterans’ graves to make sure every fallen hero is honored.

Brrr-illiant SKIN

Follow these tips to keep your skin firm and glowing all winter long.

BY ALICIA BONNER

HAVE YOU EVER noticed that your skin, which once felt so firm and bouncy, starts to feel looser over time, especially when the weather turns cold? This is a universal phenomenon, known as the Winter Skin Paradox, which actively strips your skin of the moisture it needs to stay firm and healthy.

When skin loses its youthful resilience and starts to droop, experts call this skin laxity. This is the term for the process when the fundamental structure and integrity of the skin’s dermal layer break down, causing the skin to lose its “snap back” ability, particularly around the jawline, neck, and cheeks.

This loss of firmness is caused by a complex interaction of two main forces: intrinsic aging (what happens naturally over time) and extrinsic aging (what happens due to environment and lifestyle).

THE STORY BEHIND THE SAG

Your skin is supported by two really important proteins, much like the structural beams in a house. When these beams weaken, gravity starts to win.

The first is collagen. This protein gives your skin its strength and structure. After age 20, we produce about 1% less collagen in our skin each year.

The second important protein is elastin. This gives your skin its stretch and ability to snap back. With age, elastin becomes fragmented and disorganized, losing its ability to recoil, much like a worn-out rubber band.

As we get older, our bodies naturally slow down making these two power proteins. When this happens, laxity begins to appear especially around the eyes, jawline, and neck.

WATCH OUT FOR ACCELERANTS

It’s not just getting older that affects our skin. Other factors aggressively break down these support beams and accelerate laxity:

Sun damage: This is the No. 1 cause of loose skin. The sun’s ultraviolet rays actively generate free radicals that dismantle and destroy collagen and elastin fibers, dramatically speeding up the sagging process.

Weight changes: Losing a lot of weight quickly means your stretchedout skin doesn’t have time for its elastin fibers to shrink back, resulting in persistent looseness.

• Lifestyle: Smoking, chronic stress (which elevates collagen-breaking cortisol), and environmental pollution all hinder your skin’s ability to repair and rebuild itself.

STAY MOISTURIZED

Dry skin and laxity go hand-in-hand. When the skin barrier is dry and compromised, it accelerates the

breakdown of the deeper structures that support it. The Winter Skin Paradox is a major factor. Here’s how it works:

Humidity heist—Cold air outdoors holds little moisture, and heated air indoors is extremely dry. This constant shift pulls moisture out of your skin.

Barrier breakdown—This moisture loss causes the skin’s protective lipid barrier to weaken, leading to microinflammation. Chronic inflammation is a major culprit in accelerating the destruction of your collagen and elastin, making fine lines and laxity appear more pronounced.

INGREDIENTS THAT CAN HELP

The good news is that amazing ingredients are clinically proven to help your skin rebuild its strength. Look for these superstar ingredients on your product labels:

•Retinol(vitaminA): This signals skin cells to work faster and tells

them to build lots of new collagen to firm up the structure.

•Peptides: There are small proteins that travel into your skin to trigger cells to produce more collagen and elastin.

•VitaminC: This powerful antioxidant defends existing collagen from sun damage and helps your body make new collagen.

•Hyaluronicacid: This pulls water into your skin, instantly plumping it up. Plump, hydrated skin looks much firmer and smoother.

A SKIN-FIRMING ACTION PLAN

The single most important step you can take is to wear sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) every single day, even in winter. Protecting your existing collagen is always easier than rebuilding it.

Next, look for products with the ingredients above and use them consistently. Skin health is a long game—a little effort every day leads to great results.

Alicia Bonner is a physician assistant with advanced aesthetic training through the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. She is the owner of Bella Mobile Aesthetics.

Love Connection

A local matchmaker finds personal joy in helping others find an ideal partner.

INTERVIEW WITH BRIGITTE WEIL

BRIGITTE WEIL WAS recruited by a national matchmaking firm in 2015 and fell in love with helping others fall in love. She launched her own agency, Brigitte Weil Matchmaking, in 2000, with offices in Manhattan and New Hope. Weil is a Certified Matchmaker through The Global Love Institute, the largest certifying international matchmaking organization. Here, she discusses the art of finding a partner.

Why did you get into matchmaking?

I didn’t grow up thinking, “I want to become a matchmaker,” but I always knew I wanted to help people. When I made my first match and realized I could help two people achieve something so vital that they could not find themselves, I was hooked. I stay deeply immersed in the matchmaking industry as it is constantly evolving. I attend regular conferences and retreats designed to help matchmakers grow, collaborate, and stay connected, so that we can best serve singles who don’t want to remain single.

What can a client expect when signing up with a matchmaker?

My clients can expect a personalized, tailored, handson experience designed around one’s goals, values, and lifestyle. There is an onboarding period prior to

the first introduction, where I spend time thoroughly understanding who my client is, what they want, and what really matters. We then have a styling and photo shoot, and any other necessities that I deem will set my client up for success. I like to think of myself as a strategic partner guiding clients through curated introductions, thoughtful feedback, support, and accountability throughout the journey.

Why should someone work with a matchmaker?

Someone works with a matchmaker because they want a more intentional, efficient, and personalized approach to securing a meaningful relationship. This can be anyone, at any age. It’s a smarter, more supportive alternative than doing it alone, plus it’s a huge savings in time and energy. Matchmakers take the time to fully understand

clients and their goals so we can filter out incompatible options and curate intentional, screened, and vetted matches. When one is intentional about who they are looking for, there is a greater chance for aligned and forever connections that result in the kind of relationships clients want.

What are some tips for knowing if your date is a match or not?

The main goal of a first date is to decide if you want a second date. I suggest keeping an ear out for similarities in goals, lifestyles, future plans, values, and the important stuff that becomes the glue to longevity. It’s hard to evaluate all this on one date, so unless the date is a disaster, I may suggest keeping channels open for further exploration.

Is Valentine’s Day a prime time to meet a match?

I think every day is an ideal day to explore a new connection or fall in love, but Valentine’s Day does offer a built-in opportunity to evaluate what one wants in a partner and potentially improve one’s love life, whether partnered or not. I am big on intention because it sets the tone for meaningful, aligned connections instead of leaving things to chance.

Why is a strong romantic connection important for couples who have been together for a long time?

Romance keeps the emotional connection vibrant and reminds each other that they are chosen and valued. Couples who invest in romance deepen their bond,

creating a sense of partnership that stays resilient over time. I grew up surrounded by relationship longevity—my parents are now married for 61 years, my maternal grandparents were together for 79 years, and my paternal grandparents had a timeless wartime love story that taught me so much about what authentic bonds look like.

What types of romantic dates do you recommend for Valentine’s Day in the Upper Makefield Township area?

Quiet and intimate spots are my favorite go-tos. I love Charcoal BYOB, The Salt House, and the Swan Hotel. I also suggest thinking out of the box:

Surprise your special person with a thermos of great hot chocolate and a pretty stroll along the Delaware River.

What are some gift recommendations for Valentine’s Day?

One can never go wrong with chocolate or flowers. Another idea is to create your own personal card instead of a store-bought one. Overall, it’s important to take time to buy or create something that makes your partner feel special and valued.

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A Passion for Pop Art

Perry Milou uses his innovative thinking and natural talent to create memorable works.

BY DARI KOTZKER

T

THE STROKES OF a paintbrush on a canvas can create profound images, and Upper Makefield resident and pop artist Perry Milou has that magical talent of painting exhilarating pieces. Whether you’re new to the art world or a collector, you can’t help but be enthralled by the bright colors, dazzling displays, and creative energy felt in his Lambertville, New Jersey, gallery. The walls are covered with canvases and mixed media pieces; it’s hard to believe one artist could produce so many stunning works.

Milou’s family is from South Philadelphia originally, and he grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs. Creativity ran in his family; his mother was a ballet dancer, and his father was a restaurateur in Center City. Becuase he was always drawing, his mother signed him up for art

lessons at 5 years old, and it was immediately evident he had a gift. In high school, Milou spent most of his days in the art room.

He then attended the University of Arizona for fine arts, focusing on illustration and graphics, but he was having trouble staying within one niche.

“The dean changed one of the majors of the school because of me, to an open studio major, so I could take whatever classes I wanted to, like watercolor, printmaking, oil painting,” Milou says. “That’s why my art is very diverse in terms of technique and different styles, because I learned a lot of different stuff.”

DRAWING ATTENTION

After graduating college, Milou moved back to his parents’ house in 1990 and started to make paintings in what he calls the

“fine pop” genre, because it’s a mix of fine art and pop art. Like most artists, he also worked in the hospitality industry and taught art classes to support his dream until 1998, when he made the decision to pursue art full-time. Around that same time, he displayed his works along the fence in Rittenhouse Square and became known for his paintings of Philadelphia sports heroes, city landmarks, and iconic celebrities. He sold so many pieces off the street that he opened various art galleries

over the next few years. After a short move to Miami in 2009, Milou settled in New Jersey when he got married and had a baby, and he continued his artistic ventures.

His creative process starts by sketching with paint right onto the canvas. Depending on the content or style of the design, one piece can take a couple of days or weeks, while simpler ones take a few hours.

“I’m like a kid in a candy shop; it’s not even work for me,” Milou says. “I’m inspired by practically

everything. I don’t have any favorite pieces. To me the relationship or the love of the piece is when you’re creating it: The paint is wet, the energy is flowing from my body, my mind, my heart onto the canvas. And when the painting is done, I release it into the world.”

Milou says art can be a taught technique, but for him, he doesn’t have to force it because it comes naturally. His pop art includes political art, Americana art, and portraiture to name a few. He has delved into the mediums of mixed media, gold leaf, spin art, and abstract.

“Most artists will focus on one thing, but I am always exploring new mediums, subject matters, and ways to paint,” he says. “I think a strength of mine is that I can appeal to the masses of people.”

THE ART OF THE DEAL

Milou says the business and promotional end of selling art is just as important as making art. He has many collectors who are repeat buyers, and he receives numerous commission requests.

“I’ve always had a good left side of my brain compared to a lot of artists who just have the creative right side,” he says. “I like the business side of it. I think artists sell more art when people get to meet the artist. I also love gorilla marketing, where I hang a show at a pizza place or a car wash—that’s how people find me. If you’re going

to make it, you must be willing to put it out there.”

In addition to selling his original works at his gallery, social media has been a game changer to share his talent with the world. One of his most notable successes was when he was named the official portrait artist for Pope Francis’ visit to America. His painting was licensed to The World Meeting of Families and the archdiocese for retail merchandise. He says commercialization of his art through printing has been successful, and it keeps growing.

“I started printing 25 years ago,” he says. “As soon as I finish a painting, I get it high-resolution scanned for retail merchandising. It allows someone who can’t afford an original painting to buy

a reproduction. I probably have 600 paintings in my shop for you to buy as a print.”

In 2015, when Milou and his wife had their second child, they moved to Washington Crossing. In 2023, he opened his most recent gallery and workspace, Milou Gallery.

“I just love Washington Crossing,” he says. “It’s a beautiful area. We live right by the park and the bridge, and I have painted the bridge twice. When I have events at my gallery, people from Upper Makefield Township and surrounding areas come, so I’m developing a whole new clientele base, which is great.”

SPREADING LOVE

same. They represent human souls.”

Anchored by Valentine’s Day, February is the month of love, and Milou will be making spin-art hearts to sell as gifts for the holiday. However, he has been drawing heart characters for 15 years under the brand Spread Your Love.

“The heart is such a universal shape,” he says. “It’s about togetherness and understanding, surrender and forgiveness. No two drawings are the

His series of hearts will soon be featured in a children’s book. It also inspired Milou’s daughter to share the concept on her school’s mission trip to Malawi last year. This June, father and daughter, along with classmates and teachers, will return to the 55,000-family refugee camp to work on a huge mural, set up an art studio, and create merchandise, including hearts on wood to help raise funds.

Milou is always working on new projects, such as the heart book. He’s also helped develop a docuseries based on a painting he made that features cheesesteak shops and hopes to do a series of Upper Makefield Township landscapes in the future.

“I like to live in the unknown, because that’s what keeps you present and happy, and I’m always creating projects,” he says. “When a project turns into something successful or I sell a painting, it’s a high. I’m a very blessed guy. I’m all smiles.”

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

The Sweet Life

Valentine’s Day is a popular time to buy chocolate, but for local husband-and-wife chocolatiers, every day is a celebration of love.

BY DARI KOTZKER

CCHOCOLATE AS A SYMBOL

of love dates back to the ancient times of the Mayans and Aztecs, when cocoa was used in marriage and love rituals. As time went on, chocolate gained popularity in Europe where it became associated with courtship and luxury. In today’s Western culture, it’s a centerpiece of romantic gestures.

One reason why this delectable delight is still considered an emblem of love is because its chemistry includes compounds such as phenylethylamine, also known as the love chemical, which mimics the brain’s natural response to falling in love.

The link between love and chocolate is what fuels Newtown Chocolatier. With 47 years of marriage and a quarter century working in the chocolate industry, co-owners Donna and Doug Haines have a devotion not just to

each other but to crafting the finest confections.

At their store, they specialize in creating European-style sweets using Belgium’s finest chocolate from one of the world’s leading chocolate companies called Barry Callebaut, as well as select local and international ingredients.

“We have been using Belgian chocolate for about 20 years now because it tastes so good due to its strict standards of using 100% pure cocoa butter for richness, superior fine grinding for smoothness, as well as a long conching process [to develop flavor] making the chocolate very creamy,” Doug says. “The chocolate arrives as tiny chips, which are then tempered and molded with care.”

All of Newtown Chocolatier’s chocolate is made on-site. “There’s a whole manufacturing area here, and the Belgian chocolate we use is a great chocolate,” Donna says. “We

have the best chocolate around. We have people come in and say they can only eat our chocolate because it has such a different taste.”

A DELICIOUS VENTURE

The Haines’ started their chocolate adventure in 2001, when they were in their mid-40s. At the time, Doug was a sales representative in the electronics industry, and Donna worked at a dental office. Doug was introduced to the chocolate industry by his father, who had moved to Florida and worked as a designer for a chocolate manufacturing company. When his dad came up to visit Doug in Newtown, they went to a local candy shop and spoke to the owner about the industry. After learning more about it, Doug thought he and Donna should try it.

“We knew absolutely zero about the industry,” he says. “We didn’t even know what tempering was,

so we bought this tiny machine called the Little Dipper that can hold up to 10 pounds. We started making chocolate in my daughter’s bedroom after she left for college.”

Though early attempts did not turn out right, the couple persisted. “One day, I called Wilbur Chocolate Factory, where we got our initial chocolate from,” Doug says. “I got the chemist who actually created that chocolate, and he taught me everything about tempering chocolate, so that was nice of him.”

Doug continued to expand his chocolate creations by taking professional classes and getting more hands-on experience. His skills became so impressive that Barry Callebaut asked him to make recipes for their company.

Once he and Donna had perfected their process, Doug would bring chocolate samples to his electronics sales meetings and receive enthusiastic responses. One day,

he sold 300 boxes during the holiday season and decided the next step was to open a retail space on State Street in Newtown. In December 2002, the couple took part in a Newtown shopping event called Midnight Madness, and they were in for a big surprise. “We had no idea how crowded our store was going to be,” Donna says. “We had a line up the stairs, downstairs, outside. We

were shocked. By the end of the night, we had nothing left because everybody had bought everything.”

After a few years, Donna and Doug moved to another location in Newtown Borough and opened their current store on Richboro Road in 2012. They say the best part of having a store is meeting so many great customers. Besides Newtown locals, much of their clientele is from Upper Makefield Township and surrounding areas, due to the store’s central location.

“We have people who are here every week, and some people come in and spend a couple hundred dollars at a time just for themselves to have chocolate in the house,” Donna says.

Doug enjoys seeing the satisfaction on his customers’ faces. “When you make something really good, it’s very rewarding,” he says. “Most of the time when people come in for the first time, we’ll give them some samples, and we’re so happy to see them enjoying it.”

A HEART FULL OF CHOCOLATE

According to the National Confectioners Association, 92% of Americans will purchase candy for Valentine’s Day, including 58 million pounds of chocolate. The Haines’ say Valentine’s Day is a popular time where chocolate-covered strawberries and heart-shaped chocolates are in demand. There are also newer trends of what people are buying for this holiday of love.

“When we started, it was all butter cream, and then slowly truffles became more popular,” Doug says. “I think it has to do with the sweetness, because the butter creams are very sweet, and the ganaches are not so sweet. Also, truffles are considered more elegant for Valentine’s Day.”

Chocolate is a treat that is enjoyed year-round. At Newtown Chocolatier, some of the top items are chocolate-covered pretzels, butter crunch, turtles, almond bark, and peanut butter cups. The couple also has perfected the shelf life of its chocolates with a secret allnatural ingredient—a tip from a master chocolatier at Peter’s Chocolate.

Despite working with chocolate seven days a week,

both Donna and Doug still enjoy indulging in the sweets. Donna says her favorite variety changes from week to week, but she especially loves dark chocolate, sea salt caramel, and vanilla buttercream. Doug claims his preferred picks are dark chocolate lemon meringue bonbons and Newtown nips.

Beyond Valentine’s Day, the couple looks forward to continuing to serve up their delicious confections to chocolate lovers for years to come.

“Our mission is to always seek new ways to improve

our chocolate and offer the best to our customers,” Doug says. “I’m always working to get better all the time, keep our costs low, and try new creations.”

Donna believes the key to their long-lasting relationship and successful business is that they are both laid-back and have always been on the same page.

“It’s a fun adventure,” she says.

“I’m so glad we did this together.”

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

Perfect Harmony

A marriage composed of dueling pianists hits all the right notes.

BY DARI KOTZKER

OONE OF THE MOST iconic lyrics to describe the life of a piano player comes from Billy Joel’s well-known song “Piano Man.” The minute the song is performed, it’s often immediately joined by a crowd singing loudly together: “Sing us a song you’re the piano man. Sing us a song tonight. Well we’re all in the mood for a melody. And you’ve got us feelin’ alright.” Married couple and dueling pianists Jennie and Steve Luhmann get to experience this musical lifestyle when they play piano on stage in front of crowds.

Jennie and Steve have studied piano since childhood, sang in their high-school choirs and musicals, and manifested their talents into becoming professional dueling pianists. Jennie grew up in Upper Makefield Township and decided to try piano because her parents and brother played.

“My family moved to Upper Makefield Township when I was in fourth grade, and it was a quintessential childhood,” she says. “I lived across the street from the elementary school in a rural house. It was all very familial. When I started piano lessons at age 7, I liked learning the theory, but as I progressed, I really enjoyed the pop aspect of music.”

Steve was raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and started learning piano at age 8 after his mom saw

him tinkering on the keys, trying to play a Richard Marx song by ear. He confesses he was a tough student who didn’t like to practice at first, but his attitude changed when his mom and teacher showed him ragtime music.

“I remember getting butterflies in my stomach when I heard that ragtime sound, and I thought, ‘Would I be able to do this one day?’” he says. “It was inspiring to hear that music; I loved the rhythm, and that’s what got me going. I went on to win a ragtime competition at age 12, and I was off to the races.”

Jennie graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a major in communications and Latin studies. She then continued on to nursing

school a few years later. Steve went to Valparaiso University and majored in piano performance. Soon, their love of piano playing would bring them together and blossom into a romantic relationship.

A NOTE-ABLE REQUEST

After college, Jennie moved to Ohio for a corporate job and worked nights at The Big Bang, a dueling piano bar that opened in her apartment building. She started as a server, and once her talent on the piano was recognized, she became a performer.

Steve was hired as a piano player at the bar’s St. Louis location, while also working at his church. There was a temporary pianist opening in St. Louis in 2010, so Jennie volunteered to take the spot since

she had left her day job and had the time to travel. The first person she met walking into the venue was Steve, who would also be her playing partner that night.

Dueling pianos is when two players sit at two pianos and work with each other to play requested songs, covering all music genres ranging from the ’50s to today.

“The ‘duel’ is when someone from the audience gives you $5 to play a song, and if someone wants to hear something else, that person will give you anything over $5 to stop the song and play something else; so now you have a duel and you go back and forth with those songs,” Steve says.

Jennie says the duel aspect doesn’t happen all the time, but when it does, it can be a lot of

fun. “The real shtick is to be super involved with the audience,” she says. “We want them to sing, clap, and have fun. It can be a show filled with musical comedy, interaction, and dancing.”

Within a few months of meeting Steve, Jennie took a full-time position at the St. Louis piano bar, and they became a romantic couple in addition to their professional relationship on stage. Eventually, they moved to another dueling piano company in Rhode Island for a few years and got married. When that establishment closed, they started to freelance, taking jobs in the New York City area.

Both say they were immediately comfortable with each other from their first encounter, and playing together was very natural. They both emphatically say that feeling continues today. “We have a lot of trust in each other at shows,” Steve says. “We’re sort of in each other’s head. I just love when she’s feeling a song and you can hear it in her

voice. Those are the moments that are just so cool—that I get to do this with her.”

Jennie’s admiration is reciprocal. “He’s the most prepared dueler you’ll ever meet,” she says. “There are a lot of times I’ll look over to see what I can do to back him up in the song, but then I get lost watching him because I’m so impressed with his talent.”

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

When they found out they were expecting a baby in 2020, the couple decided to move to Upper Makefield Township. Jennie says she always knew she wanted to come back and loved that her friends and family were still local.

While they continue to freelance for various dueling piano companies, Jennie works fulltime as a clinical research project manager, and Steve gives in-home piano and guitar lessons. “I teach a lot of students in the area,” he says. “I love being able to share my abilities. I’m very patient with them and encourage them to keep at it.”

After moving back to the area, the duo also started their own show, “Jennie and Steve’s Dueling Pianos,” where they perform at local venues and parties. They say every job is

different because of the crowds and the requests, and it keeps them on their toes. “You’re always thinking five steps ahead of what needs to happen in the show,” Steve says. “You look at requests and try to navigate what the best flow is because you want momentum to keep the show rolling.”

Jennie says the Newtown Theatre helped solidify their brand when they started playing there in 2021. “The Newtown Theatre is special for me because I grew

up going there, so it’s an out-of-body experience playing there,” she says.

Newtown Theatre Executive Director Andrew Smith says almost all of Jennie and Steve’s shows sell out. “I think it’s nice to have people on stage who live in the community,” he says. “Everybody loves dueling pianos. The feedback is always positive. It’s like a big party.”

Now with two children, Jennie and Steve nickname their gigs “date night.”

Since Bucks County is their forever home, their hope is to continue to add more local business to their repertoire.

“When the clients come up at the end of the night and say we had the best time, it’s a great feeling to know you’ve had a successful show,” Steve says.

Jennie agrees, adding: “I feel so lucky we get to do what we do. To perform on stage for a living is a dream.”

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

Say It With Roses

These symbolic flowers are a classic way to let your special someone know they are loved.

BY RAFAEL NOVOA

THERE IS NOTHING that says love like a red rose. Throughout history, it has held a great deal of symbolism. In ancient times, the flower was rooted in Greek and Roman mythology; it was linked to Aphrodite and Venus, who represented love, beauty, and desire. The Romans also used the rose to exemplify luxury and secrecy. The Medieval and Renaissance eras gave it religious and political significance.

MODERN MEANING

In the Victorian era, the rose established a new language of flowers known as floriography, in which the color and number of flowers offered conveyed specific sentiments. Today, people still use these color guidelines for rose giving, among them:

Red - love, passion, and courage

White - new beginnings

Pink - admiration

Yellow - friendship

Orange - desire

As for quantity, a single rose signifies love at first sight, and three indicates the desire for a relationship to continue. Gift someone six for a romantic getaway. This time of year, the classic “Be My Valentine” dozen flies off shelves. The larger the bouquet, the stronger the meaning for anniversaries and boundless love.

THE PERFECT ARRANGEMENT

When it comes to presenting or arranging

these symbolic beauties, there are endless directions and alternatives. If you choose a large bouquet, display them in a box; a beautifully cut crystal glass vase for a more traditional presentation; or a clear, simple or geometric contemporary glass vessel for a fresh, stylish mindset of how simple it is to say, “I love you.”

If you prefer to take a minimalist approach, a beautiful, singular bud vase paired with a box of chocolates and a glass of something bubbly says it all.

A very romantic direction is to display your roses with a trail of petals that leads your loved one down a path of an unexpected surprise. The alternative could be a mixed arrangement that is meant to be shared with those you love, like family and friends.

Known as the Queen of Flowers, the rose is the most critical element to have on Valentine’s Day. No matter how many or what color, it’s very important to take time to think about how you want to present these beautiful flowers because of the symbolic meaning you want to express.

Rafael Novoa is an interior designer whose firm has locations in Newtown and Philadelphia. His signature aesthetic fuses function, comfort, and expression, juxtaposing the ornate beauty of old-world craftsmanship against the clean lines and spare spaces of modern design.

DECEMBER HOME SALES

Upper Makefield Township

Royale Homes

Let’s Go Sledding!

Local hills make for great adventures when fresh snow hits the ground.

BY DARI KOTZKER

WHEN THE SNOW starts falling, most kids have one thing on their mind—sledding. While many can partake in this fun wintry activity in their own backyards, there are some popular locations that take this hilly adventure to the next level.

According to Visit Bucks County and upon the recommendations of some Upper Makefield Township residents, here are the top places to go sledding in the area. As soon as the snowflakes finish falling, put on your snow gear, grab those sleds, and head out for some fun.

UPPER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP

•TimberRidgeneighborhood

•ShiresCrossingneighborhood

NEWTOWN

•HelenRandlePark

236 Swamp Road

These open fields are located across the street from Bucks County Community College.

•TylerStatePark

101 Swamp Road

There are slopes below the Upper Plantation Picnic Area. Enter the park at the intersection of Swamp Road and Route 413. There is another hilly area to the west of Schofield Ford Covered Bridge. The closest entrance is past Twining Bridge Road or Pennswood Drive.

•LintonMemorialPark

108 South Lincoln Ave.

This pocket park on the edge of Newtown Borough offers a variety of hills.

SOLEBURY

•Magill’sHillPark

River Road and Chapel Road, New Hope

This 5-acre recreational area has steep slopes and wide hills and overlooks the Delaware River. There are parking spots across the street in Canal Path Park.

LAMBERTVILLE, NEW JERSEY

•BelleMountain

Pleasant Valley Road

This area used to operate as a small ski resort until the late 1990s. Today, the Mercer County park welcomes sledders of all ages. Many say it’s worth the trip across the Delaware.

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

Have a Growth Plan

As financial security looks different at every stage of life, the way you manage your money should also evolve.

BY ANTHONY PETSIS & ASSOCIATES ADVISORY TEAM

FINANCIAL SECURITY IS

often

described as a destination—a certain dollar amount or milestone you’re supposed to reach. But in practice, it’s something that evolves over time. True financial well-being isn’t static; it changes as our lives, responsibilities, and priorities change.

EARLY CAREER AND YOUNG FAMILIES

In the early years of your career and as you start a family, financial security is less about how much you earn and more about the habits you build. Establishing consistent savings, managing cash flow, and creating an emergency fund provides a foundation that supports every future goal. At this stage, confidence comes from understanding your finances well

enough to avoid costly missteps and respond to unexpected events without panic.

PEAK EARNING YEARS

As you advance in your career, income often rises—but so does the complexity of your finances. Taxes, education funding, retirement planning, and caring for aging parents can all compete for attention. Financial security during these years is rooted in clarity and intention. It’s about making informed decisions, protecting what you’ve built, and ensuring your money reflects what matters most to you, rather than reacting to short-term noise or headlines.

PRE-RETIREMENT

The years leading up to retirement often bring a shift in mindset. Questions around timing, income sustainability, and risk management become more urgent. Financial security here means understanding your options and trade-offs. Stresstesting plans and identifying potential gaps can reduce uncertainty and help families approach retirement with confidence instead of hesitation.

RETIREMENT AND LEGACY YEARS

Later in life, financial security becomes less about growth and more about sustainability and peace of mind. Reliable income, thoughtful tax strategies, health-care planning, and legacy considerations move to the forefront. Many families find that simplicity—not complexity—is what provides the greatest sense of control and comfort.

Ultimately, financial security isn’t simply about reaching a universal benchmark. It’s about having a plan that evolves with you throughout the years—one that supports your goals today while preparing you for the stages still ahead.

With a legacy spanning two generations, Anthony Petsis & Associates delivers personalized, fiduciary-driven financial advice tailored to clients’ unique needs. To learn more about the firm’s services, which can help you plan with confidence, visit www.apetsis.com.

All for Love

From romance novels to self-help books, these selections focus on the power of love.

BY LIZ YOUNG

YOUNG READERS IN MY HEART

By Jo Witek

This picture book explains emotions through inviting words used to describe what they mean to you and your littlest reader.

SNUGGLE SEASON

By Jaimie MacGibbon

This is a warm, seasonal read for those who like the idea of cold without the real chill. It’s great for the under 6-year-old crowd.

MIDDLE READERS

SPY SKI SCHOOL

By Stuart Gibbs

A 13-year-old spy in training goes to Vail, Colorado, for a top-priority mission disguised as a ski vacation. Dig in for a great undercover adventure.

ADULT READERS

MINDFULNESS ESSENTIALS SERIES

By Thich Nhat Hanh

This series enables a sense of calm and well-being to emerge from our otherwise nonstop lifestyles. Its several volumes help readers to reflect, renew, and achieve clarity.

HOW ABOUT NOW

By Kate Baer

Share this poetry collection with others after you absorb the aweinspired words that transform and reaffirm your choices and support the resilience that may be hidden in your soul.

GALENTINE’S DAY

By Rebecca Anderson

This epistle to the important women in your life is a treasure of fond memories, courageous attitudes, and a whole lot of fun.

AND NOW, BACK TO YOU

By B.K. Borison

This is a fun-to-read romantic story where you can disappear into another world for a few moments or hours if you can afford the time after a busy day. With its heartfelt energy and robust story line, the book leaves you wanting more.

THE RE-DO LIST

By Denise Williams

If you believe in second chances, you’ll like this breathtaking tour of small-town life, where romance is found in unexpected places with a passion not to be ignored.

THE BOOK OF ALCHEMY: A CREATIVE PRACTICE FOR AN INSPIRED LIFE

By Suleika Jaouad

This tightly wrapped self-help volume honestly assesses personal creativity and wisdom. Together, the artists, thinkers, and writers provide insights, including the power of journaling, to enable you to uncover your true self.

Liz Young is the owner of the local bookshop Commonplace Reader (www.commonplacereader.com), which recently celebrated its five-year anniversary. Located on Main Street in Yardley, the shop hosts several adult book clubs each month along with kids’ activities on Saturdays.

HEART OF WINTER

TARA WILLIAMS is a multidisciplinary artist who captured this winter wonderland in her backyard in Solebury. She was happy to come across a naturally formed heart shape in her pond surrounded by beautiful icy and snowy aesthetics. Williams uses her photographs for artistic inspiration.

Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo? Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!