Berks County Living January 2025

MEET 3 RECENTLY WED

Our Berks County Reception Guide Adda POP of color at home +

A Perfect Smile for your Big Day!

Dr. Michelle Lee, owner of Fleetwood Dental, is proud to serve and provide comprehensive dentistry to the Berks County area for the past 17 years. She and her former partner, Dr. Richard Reddy, collaboratively served the community for 50 years in the same practice, and she continues to carry on the practice’s legacy. Dr. Lee is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed residency at Abington Memorial Hospital. In addition to her time at the practice, she teaches at the University of Pennsylvania Dental School and at the Pankey Institute, a nonprofit dental education center for practicing dentists. She is an active member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) and American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE), where she integrates high-level cosmetic dental and facial esthetics in her practice.

At Fleetwood Dental, patients rave about the new patient experience with Dr. Lee and her team. “It’s the most thorough examination I have ever received,” said Demetria, a new patient. The first visit entails a one-on-one visit with Dr. Lee, seeing her perform a thorough examination and address patient goals and expectations. A trial smile is even provided digitally for the patient to preview specific treatment outcomes.

Services at Fleetwood Dental include cosmetic dentistry, smile design, teeth bleaching, veneers, full smile makeovers, Botox, dermal fillers and TMJ disorder therapy. Dr. Lee’s training in using Botox and dermal fillers to address lip esthetics is a key component to achieving a full smile with natural, youthful facial esthetics. Her Botox approach also helps TMD and facial pain patients with headaches, migraines and excessive daytime clenching. She strives to deliver the care, skill and professional judgement necessary to give dental excellence to each and every one of her patients. She says, “The goal at Fleetwood Dental is to treat our patients like family and collaborate with them in a relationship-based, health-centered philosophy of care.”

All smiles in these photos were created by Dr. Michelle Lee. marshall lin photography

• Versatile ballroom and banquet spaces for receptions, rehearsal dinners and bridal rooms

• Bridal suite accommodations and stylish sleeping rooms for you and your guests

• Wedding and cocktail packages o ering fine dining, including pre-wedding tasting

• Event Elevations bespoke venue decór

• Complimentary shuttle service and garage parking

ANDREA SMITH, DDS

Owner/Prosthodontist

Berks Prosthodontics

Dr. Andrea Smith is the founder of Berks Prosthodontics. A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed dental school plus a three-year Advanced Prosthodontics residency at an ADA-accredited graduate program focusing on technical excellence in the restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists are THE acknowledged experts in dental implant restorations, crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, and full-mouth implant prosthetics such as Teeth-in-One-Day or All-On-4.

A Berks County native, Dr. Smith received her Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Medicine from Penn State University, where she graduated as Class Valedictorian of the Eberly College of Science. She then attended the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York City, where she again graduated as Class Valedictorian with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. After receiving her dental degree, Dr. Smith completed three years of specialty training in the field of Prosthodontics at UCLA’s Advanced Prosthodontics Residency Program, followed by an additional one-year residency at UCLA in Maxillofacial Prosthetics, making her one of only 350 Maxillofacial Prosthodontists worldwide.

Dr. Smith returned to our area in 2009 to become the first female Clinical Director of the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic, the oldest clinic in the world devoted to the treatment of children born with facial birth defects, a position she held for seven years.

In 2015, Dr. Smith opened Berks Prosthodontics in Wyomissing, bringing her specialty training back to her hometown. At Berks Prosthodontics she sees patients with a wide variety of dental concerns, such as broken or missing teeth, uncomfortable dentures, extensive tooth wear, or dissatisfaction with the appearance of their smile. More than 100 area dentists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists trust her to handle their patients’ complex or cosmetic dental needs. From a single perfect tooth to state-of-the-art full mouth reconstruction, Dr. Smith strives to provide all of her patients with an unparalleled level of care.

955 Berkshire Blvd., Ste. 104, Wyomissing 484.577.3530 | berkspros.com

Years Strong: United Way of Berks County Celebrates Milestone Anniversary

with Geoffrey K. Fleming

Apricot Old-fashioned at Craft 2700 at Freymoyer’s THOUGHTS FROM GRCA

PRESIDENT/CEO

Paul Prass

VICE PRESIDENT/COO

Lisa Prass

PUBLISHER

Robyn L. Jones

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nikki M. Murry

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Kirsten Werner

DIGITAL STRATEGY DIRECTOR

Jason Chrin

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Eleanor Anderson

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Krystal Honohan

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Krystal Honohan

DESIGN CONSULTANT

Elaine Wyborski

ADVERTISING DESIGNER

Thomas Körp

COPY EDITOR

Veloie Mastrocola

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Baver

Sarah Matarella

Marian Frances Wolbers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Adrienne Beck Photography

Tania Colamarino

Ama Photography

Rachel Conrad Grey Girl Photography

Carrie Kizuka Photography

Lauren Adele Little Photography

Lindsey Rachel Photography

Heidi Reuter

John A. Secoges

Secoges Photographics

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES

Elizabeth Beebe

Denise Lichty

Sara Woodward

ACCOUNTING

Jobelle Aleño

Donna Bachman

Kim Kressman

how to contact us

EDITO RIAL: We want to hear from you — we really do! Send your compliments, gripes, story ideas and suggestions to: Editor, Berks County Living, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, 201 Washington St., Suite 525, Reading, PA 19601 OR BCLEditor@BerksCountyLiving. com. Written correspondence must be signed and include a mailing address, telephone number and an email address, when possible.

ADVERTISING: To request a media kit or receive other information about advertising, email RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: For new subscriptions, changes of address or questions involving an existing subscription, call 800.896.1392, Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm, EST. High-quality reprints of articles that appear in Berks County Living are available by emailing RJones@BerksCountyLiving.com. Back issues are available subject to inventory.

FIND US ONLINE: To contact our staff, get advertising information, obtain writer and photographer guidelines, submit an event for the Calendar of Events, or to be included in the Dining Guide, visit our website: www.BerksCountyLiving.com.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Berks County Living, PO Box 293142, Kettering, OH 45429. Berks County Living (ISSN 1542-9334) is published monthly by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Easton, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95. (Canadian and foreign one-year rate is $40, US funds only.) Single copy price $3.95. Periodical postage paid at Easton, PA and additional mailing office. All contents © Berks County Living 2024. Nothing contained herein may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Publisher disclaims all responsibility for omissions or errors. All rights reserved. We welcome, but cannot be responsible for, unsolicited manuscripts, contributions, or photographs. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Printed in USA.

Another New Start

Happy 2025! As is customary for us each January, we kick off the new year celebrating love. Our Weddings issue highlights the coming together of families and couples in the name of adoration and devotion. What’s not to love about that? Meet the three Berks newlyweds chosen for this year’s issue starting on page 22.

If you’re planning your own wedding, know someone who is or even if you’re considering an event of another kind, you may find our reception guide on page 34 especially helpful. There are lots of options available to you right here in Berks.

Also in this month’s issue, if the gray of winter is getting to you, why not add a pop of color to your home environment? We have tips from local interior designers on how to do just that: from putting down a colorful throw rug to taking on a wallpaper project, painting cabinets and more. A little color really can go a long way. See how on page 40.

Finally, if you’re looking to warm your soul and treat your tastebuds, plan a trip to Kinya Ramen in Wyomissing. Want to learn more? Read all about it in our Dining Out article on page 46.

Oops!

In our December Best of Berks feature, we’d like to make some corrections. The superintendent of Manor Golf Club is Eric Krick. And From The Heart Consignment has raised more than $130,000 for the community—now nearing $140,000!

Cheers to the New Year!

NIKKI M. MURRY

NMurry@BerksCountyLiving.com

She/Her/Hers Editor-in-Chief

one MORE THING

Know a stand-out advocate for a particular nonprofit based in Berks County?

We want to hear about them! Email us at bcleditor@berkscountyliving.com and give them a shout-out.

Get Delicious Recipes. They’re healthy, too! Browse Calm Eats by Wyomissing resident Daniela Modesto in our blog section.

Go Back in Time. Want to read a past issue or share an older feature with friends? Find it in our Issue Archive section. The link is on our homepage.

Get Bonus Content. It’s free! Sign up to be a BCL Insider and get our monthly e-newsletter, info on special events and more. Just click the homepage icon.

Explore with us. Follow along on Instagram as we uncover local gems, enjoy delicious dishes, attend events and more. Just search BCLMag.

Are We Friends?

We’d love for you to “like” and “follow” us on Facebook! Find us at facebook.com/ berkscountyliving.

Facebook Follow. Learn more about Caricatures by Courtney, Inc., featured in our Berks Bits section, by visiting facebook.com/ caricaturesbycourtney.

STAFF SPEAKS

It’s a new year! What are you most looking forward to in 2025?

“2025: the year I finally part ways with my 90s kitchen counters — out with the old, in with the granite!”

Robyn L. Jones, publisher

“A post-birthday trip to Washington, DC to see the panda bears at the National Zoo and the cherry blossoms in bloom, too.”

Nikki M. Murry, editor

“I’m most looking forward to my oldest son getting his license. Although it will be stressful, it will certainly be a huge help to have someone else to run errands and transport my other kids to their activities.”

Elizabeth Beebe account executive

“Spending time with family and watching my grandchildren grow!”

Sara Woodward account executive

“I’m most excited for the growth and change that life will bring in 2025. You never know what blessings life has in store for you.”

Krystal Honohan senior graphic designer & social media coordinator

“I’m excited for my 2020 baby to go to preschool in 2025. I’m extremely nervous, but I’m ready to see him shine (and get some me time).”

Elaine Wyborski design consultant

Eco-friendly CREATIONS

After witnessing the success of her winery’s floral-infused sangria lines and dreaming of opening a clothing boutique, Andrea Folino became inspired to create a store that offers both. Opening its doors in February of 2024, the Andrea Folino Boutique & Sangria Bar in Wyomissing provides customers with a unique opportunity to update their wardrobe in-store, all while sipping on delicious, freshly prepared sangria. “I feel like the experience of shopping has gotten so fast-paced and online, and not as enjoyable as it used to be, so I strive to create a great environment for guests and clients to come in and try on new looks. I’m really excited to bring back that whole experience around updating your wardrobe,” Andrea says. Not your run-of-the-mill clothing store, the Andrea Folino Boutique & Sangria Bar strives to make every visit an experience for guests. “It’s not just a store that you would come to and shop at. You can sit down, have a sangria, and have a little shopping party with your girlfriends,” Andrea asserts. Shopping and sangria? What more could you want? For more info visit andreafolino.com. – KIRSTEN WERNER

Sip While You Shop Bringing Out the Best in People

From working at Dorney Park as a teenager to getting her degree in graphic design from the Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University, Berks resident Courtney Ebert has always been fond of caricature drawing. While at Temple, Courtney attended her first birthday party in which she drew caricatures of guests. From there, Caricatures by Courtney was born. Unlike similar businesses, Caricatures by Courtney focuses on drawing friendly caricatures of people rather than overexaggerated ones. “I like to bring out the best in people instead of the worst because I know a lot of times caricatures have a connotation of making people look ugly or pointing out their worst features. I feel like I do the opposite of that,” Courtney says. Caricatures by Courtney is also a popular choice for corporate events. Unconvinced? Just ask Citizens Bank Park, General Mills, The Franklin Institute and many others who have served as clients over the years. If you’re looking for a caricature artist to perform at your event, look no further than Caricatures by Courtney. For more info visit caricaturesbycourtney.com. – KIRSTEN WERNER

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WAYS TO ENJOY WINTER IN

Skating at Body Zone

Public skating is offered for ages 3 years and older at Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex in Wyomissing. Don’t know how to skate? They offer lessons, too! bodyzonesports.com/public-ice-skating

Ski & Snowboard at Bear Creek

Take to the slopes at this Macungie mountain spot. Tired from hitting the slopes all day? You can rejuvenate in the spa and even spend the night. bcmountainresort.com

Learning how to crochet from her mother and attending a fashion and design school in the Dominican Republic sparked Josephina Encarnacion’s creative interests. Along with her sister Rocio, the two co-own the boutique La Rocina Atelier, which celebrated its grand opening this past July. Located at 12A S. 5th Avenue in West Reading, this studio emphasizes creativity by using recycled and eco-friendly materials to design unique and exclusive crocheted bags. If you’re looking for a business that values authenticity and self-expression, La Rocina Atelier is just the place for you. “We do things in alignment with our hearts,” Josephina says. “We see what we do as a gift of our expression, of ourselves. The more authentic you become, the more you can give the best of who you are and what you do.” Fast fashion comes and goes, but quality and individuality are characteristics that are here to stay, and these characteristics are present at La Rocina Atelier. For more info visit instagram.com/larocinaatelier.

– KIRSTEN WERNER

Enjoy the Art of Ballet

Grab your ticket to the Ballet Theater of Ukraine’s performance of Swan Lake at the Santander Performing Arts Center in Reading on Jan. 20 at 3pm. santander-arena.com

You don’t have to hide from the cold weather all winter. There’s fun to be had right here in Berks. Here are a few options…

100 YEARS STRONG: United Way of Berks County

CELEBRATES MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY

BY SARAH MATARELLA PHOTOS COURTESY UNITED WAY OF BERKS COUNTY

From combatting infant mortality during its early years to preparing the next generation of local students and leaders today, the United Way of Berks County’s mission has remained the same. Through wars, floods, the Depression, COVID-19, you name it, the United Way has been dedicated to serving the needs of its community over the last 100 years.

The people behind the mission are a testament to that, whether it’s the volunteers, the board, partners or full-time staff members. United Way’s longestserving term of employment is 38 years, with the average employee staying with the organization for approximately 12 years.

“When I started, if somebody had told me that 34 years later I’d still be here, I’m not sure I would have believed them,” says President Tammy White. “But what I quickly learned early on is what we do matters, and working for an organization that has such an incredible team of not only staff, but volunteers, is inspiring. It’s amazing. It is an organization that looks at possibilities for the community. I always feel like I work with people who always view the glass as halffull. There’s that can-do attitude that if we work together, we can have lasting change in the community.”

Many donors have been tenured through the decades as well. Take Sue and Craig Perrotty, for example.

The 2020 campaign chairs began as a loan specialist and a donor, respectively, in the 1980s. They have remained engaged with the organization in many capacities and are honorarily co-chairing the centennial campaign with Carolyn and Jerry Holleran, also longtime supporters.

“My why has always been — and I was raised this way — to give and help others when they are in need,” says Sue Perrotty. “And we have done that. What I love about the United Way is that it funds different agencies that really represent the safety net of the whole community, and what we do matters…United Way is terrific at providing that broad support and ensuring that we have a safety net in this community that helps with things that we need.”

In addition, four of the original 20 agency partners continue to serve as partners today among the current 33, including the American Red Cross, Boy Scouts, Salvation Army and Tower Health at Home,

formerly the Visiting Nurses Association. It was the people and the partners who started the organization, and it will be the people and the partners who will continue United Way’s legacy of meeting Berks County’s everevolving needs in the future.

Get a glimpse of what has been made possible through the steadfast teamwork, unwavering dedication and resilience leading up to the United Way’s centennial:

• There were zero full-time staff members, only volunteers, during the organization’s inception in 1925. There are now nearly 40 board members and about 30 fulltime staff members.

• The first campaign raised $256,000 in 1925.

• The first million-dollar campaign was achieved in 1956.

• A $10 million gift was allocated to the organization by Mackenzie Scott in 2020.

• The latest campaign raised $11 million in 2023.

• $114,685,572 was raised in the past decade.

• Over $400 million has been raised since the nonprofit’s inception.

• 80+ programs are funded annually.

• More than 190,000 people are served annually.

Fun Facts

Through the Decades. Visit uwberks.org for the organization’s timeline from 1925 to 2025 (beginning in January) and follow United Way on social media to see those milestones come to life with throwback posts, trivia and more.

A Bigger Big Cheese.

United Way is opening the highly anticipated event to 1,000 volunteers (compared to the usual 500) to pack 500,000 meals for those in need. Sign up at uwberks.org.

IN THE LIMELIGHT

Geoffrey K. Fleming

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND CEO OF THE READING PUBLIC MUSEUM

BY SARAH MATARELLA | PHOTO BY JOHN A. SECOGES, SECOGES PHOTOGRAPHICS

It wasn’t an epiphany but a vocation for Geoff Fleming when deciding to pursue a career in the arts. His high school career test (that he still has the original copy of) confirmed it. Work ultimately led him back to Pennsylvania, too, allowing him to be closer to family.

Q:

You’ve contributed to nearly 40 books and catalogs on American art and history. When did you first become interested in these topics? It was very early on; I was trained as an artist in my youth. I had private art lessons for years. Going to museums is something we always did as a family. My parents did not have a lot of money when we were growing up, and where I was raised up on Long Island in New York, most of them were free, so we were always at museums, historical societies or the like.

Q:

When did you know you wanted to combine history with art in your career?

I have a family of history buffs. It was not uncommon at a family event during my childhood for my father, his siblings and friends to gather and talk about the latest book on a subject in American history and debate its accuracy. I think that also guided me to the museum field because whether it’s art, genealogy or architecture it’s all history. I think that coming from that kind of family had a profound influence.

Q: As you approach one year in your role in March, what’s the most fulfilling part of it? There are people who come here who are 90 who tell me they came here when they were four. Generations of people have been impacted by [the Museum]. Whether it’s decorative arts, historical or scientific-related material, there has always been a conscious effort to have variety here. With it being founded by the school district, it has been a place of learning since it opened in 1928. It was always about trying to make sure the next generation was ready and prepared to succeed in whatever they were going to go off and do, and that’s not always the purpose of a museum.

Q: What do you do to fill your cup outside of work?

Q:

What drew you from West Virginia to Berks County?

It was really the job and the institution. It’s not every day that you have a museum of this quality that combines a planetarium, arboretum and a museum in one spot. Usually, you’ve got to parse those out by going great distances to different cities or towns to do all of that, which is special for Reading and Berks County. It has a little bit of everything for everybody, which makes it a little more interesting daily. Being closer to friends and family on the east coast as my parents age instead of being 11 hours away is just good, too.

I like to go down to Renningers in Adamstown, to the flea market, and hunt for cool things. I also go to estate sales and travel to other historical places in the region. Pennsylvania is so beautiful, too. I love to get my car, just drive and see where I end up for the day… I never get tired of the beauty, all the sights and sounds and the hidden gems. I also love the food in Berks County. That’s been a big, fun part of exploring finding those little hidden places that people tell you about. Other than that, I spend a lot of time researching and writing, even if it’s not for this role. Once you do it for a while, you can’t ever really escape it.

Learn More

Not a Lost Art.

In addition to his books and those publications, Fleming is also passionate about writing biographies for forgotten artists with compelling careers.

Plan Your Visit.

The Reading Public Museum is bringing Wild Kratts to Reading. Visit readingpublicmuseum.org for details on the exhibits based on the popular PBS series.

An Apricot Old-fashioned

COMPILED

BY

NIKKI M. MURRY

PHOTOS BY TANIA COLAMARINO, AMA PHOTOGRAPHY

What’s special about this featured drink?

The Apricot Old-fashioned blends rich flavors of apricot and bourbon, creating a warm and inviting cocktail. It’s a unique twist on a classic that delights the senses.

For what occasion would you recommend this cocktail?

Pair it with…

the SMASH Burger — a juicy beef patty topped with bacon, sautéed onions, tavern sauce, American cheese, tomato and fresh lettuce on a toasted brioche bun. The cocktail’s fruity notes enhance the savory flavors of the burger perfectly!

Craft 2700 at Freymoyer’s 2700 Kutztown Rd., Reading 610.463.3233 | craft2700.com

This drink is perfect for cozy winter gatherings, celebrating special moments with friends and family around a warm fireplace. HAVE A DRINK WITH

LESLEY KAGELS, AKA CHYNA, LEAD BARTENDER

Craft 2700 at Freymoyer’s offers fresh, made-from-scratch dishes and a vibrant atmosphere. “I’m Chyna, the shift manager and lead bartender. With 16 years of bartending experience across Berks County, I’m dedicated to providing exceptional service and memorable experiences.”

Recipe: Apricot Old-fashioned

Ingredients

- 1.5 ounces bourbon

- 1 ounce apricot liquer

- ¼ ounce simple syrup

- 2 dashes Angostura bitters

- Fresh apricot slice

- Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a mixing glass, muddle a fresh apricot slice with simple syrup.

2. Add ingredients: pour in the bourbon, apricot liqueur and bitters.

3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds.

4. Strain the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with fresh ice.

5. Garnish with an additional slice of fresh apricot.

THOUGHTS FROM GRCA

HOW HELPING HARVEST NOURISHES COMMUNITIES

BY BELL MEDIA GROUP & GRCA MARKETING TEAM

PHOTO BY LAUREN ADELE LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor’s note: The following story was written as a part of GRCA member storytelling campaign. To read the entire story behind Helping Harvest scan the included flowcode. This series is sponsored by Bell Media Group.

In Berks County, there’s an organization with an appetite for change: Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank. What started as a modest effort to address local hunger has grown into a verifiable feast of community support, dishing out millions of pounds of food annually. But Helping Harvest’s story isn’t just about filling plates — it’s about perseverance in the face of daunting challenges. From navigating the uncharted waters of a global pandemic to adapting to the shifting landscape of food insecurity, this organization has shown it has the right recipe for resilience. Join us as we explore how Helping Harvest, under the leadership of President Jay

Worrall, has not only weathered the storm but flourished, transforming obstacles into opportunities to nourish its community better. This is a tale of innovation, compassion and the power of coming together when the going gets tough.

Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank, a large but unpretentious facility located a stone’s throw off Route 222 near Revere Boulevard, stands at the center of a vast food distribution network. Serving as a crucial link between food suppliers and those in need throughout Berks and Schuylkill counties, Helping Harvest has grown into a multimillion-dollar

nonprofit with a reputation for excellence and compassion.

“We have 350 food distribution partners that we provide food to,” explains Worrall. “We are not the people who put the food in the hands of those who are hungry; that’s primarily church pantries, elementary schools, nonprofit organizations, kitchens and homeless shelters.” It’s an important distinction, but it’s also important to note that those who show up at the doors of Helping Harvest’s headquarters are never turned away.

This unique position allows Helping Harvest to maximize its impact. By partnering with local organizations, it ensures that food reaches those who need it most efficiently. In its 2023-24 fiscal year, Helping Harvest distributed $19.9 million worth of food through this network, serving approximately 115,000 people annually.

Helping Harvest’s success is built on a foundation of strong partnerships. The vast majority of its food comes from collaborations with major suppliers and grocery

stores, supplemented by government programs and strategic purchases. This diverse sourcing strategy allows it to provide a wide variety of nutritious options to its partners and, ultimately, to families in need.

As we delve deeper into Helping Harvest’s story, we’ll explore how this organization has not only grown in size but also in its ability to adapt, innovate and persevere through challenging times.

Upcoming Event

Sign up now for GRCA’s Human Resources & Benefits Roundtable

Join fellow HR professionals to share advice and best practices to bring back to your business. Begins Jan. 16. Visit greaterreading.org for more info and to register.

Hannah’s Hope Ministries Annual Fall Fundraiser

1. Karen Marsdale, Grace Rodwell & LuAnn Corbert. 2. June Sands & Alexis Verbin. 3. Nikobe Smith & Solimar Guerrido. 4. Kelly & Terry Rismiller. 5. Priscilla Brown, Kathy Kijak & Noel Keen. 6. Pam & Lindsey Kehl. 7. Dr. Marcy Haas & Phil Quezada. 8. Debra & Michael Taylor. 9. Maxi & Fred Shirey. 10. Ina & Richard Gould. 11. Norman & Linda Mackey. 12. Holley & Steve Barnes. 13. Michael & Diane Duff.

1. Kiara Camacho, Bianca Ruiz, Yanelis Herrera, Kaithlin Duncan, Maciel Ceballos & Candice Newton. 2. Dolores Martinez & Jaime Baez, Jr. 3. Leanne & Tod Hirneisen. 4. Joanna & Jay Sockel. 5. Diane & Bob Billman. 6. Alvin Updegrove. 7. Ann Marie & Tony Haus. 8. Barry & Melissa Haydt. 9. Ann Brugger & Bob Ames.

10. Candice Newton & Victoria Ansel. 11. Haley Glaser. 12. Barry & Debra Hamm. 13. Carolyn Spano & Robyn Jones.

PHOTOS BY RACHEL CONRAD, GREY GIRL PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS BY RACHEL CONRAD, GREY GIRL PHOTOGRAPHY

June Sands

January

WHAT TO DO & WHERE TO GO

COMPILED BY KIRSTEN WERNER

SAFE BERKS : Celebration of Peace

Hear from keynote speaker, Robin Givens, as she shares her story of survival. Andi Funk will receive the Vision for Peace Award. There will also be food stations, raffles, a live auction and a cash bar. General admission is $100, and VIP Meet & Greet admission (5pm) is $150. For more info visit safeberks.org.

6pm | DoubleTree by Hilton | Reading

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT FOR KIDS

TAYLOR

SHINES

The Laser Spectacular 21 3 & 4

Kids ages 6 and older are invited to come count and learn about the birds that call Hawk Mountain home in the winter. Outfitted with binoculars and a short local winter bird list and field guides, teams head out on specific routes on the Sanctuary to search for and identify birds. Volunteers will help youth to identify, record and count birds they see along the way. For more info visit hawkmountain.org.

10am-Noon | Visitor Center at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary | Kempton

Continuing her US tour, Jexxa is coming to Reading to light up the stage and dazzle the audience by performing various Taylor Swift hits. For a night of stellar vocals, friendship bracelets and an astonishing laser show, get your ticket. For more info visit santander-arena.com.

7:30pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading

PUCKS ‘N PANCAKES

Come on down to the Santander Arena to watch the Reading Royals take on the Trois-Rivières Lions. Aside from the pre-game brunch, the game will also have $2 hot dogs, nachos and popcorn, a $1 kid’s ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket, and a post-game party at the DoubleTree by Hilton. For more info visit royalshockey.com.

3pm | Santander Arena | Reading

HOGWARTS on the Ave

All aboard the Hogwarts Express to West Reading. Prepare yourself for a day filled to the brim with wizardry and magic, ending with a prize ceremony back at Ridgewood Winery. Wear your best Harry Potter costume. Tickets: $45. For more info visit ridgewoodwinery.com.

Fri: 6pm, Sat: 1 & 5pm | Ridgewood Winery | Birdsboro

This Broadway musical comes to Reading for a once-in-a-lifetime performance. Enjoy the first musical to show the point of view of both parents and young people as they navigate the complexities of social media and how it complicates our lives. Become entranced by the inspiring score by the Tony-, Grammy- and Oscar-winning team behind such hits as The Greatest Showman and La La Land, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. For more info visit santander-arena.com.

7:30pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading

Through Jan. 5

Kasia Ozga: Labor/Movement

Explore how textiles can highlight the relationships between the past and present, value and waste and power and protest. In this exhibit, Ozga showcases locally sourced used workwear out of its original context to create metaphors for the value of manual labor in a world undergoing environmental and social upheaval. For more info visit goggleworks.org.

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts | Reading

Through Jan. 26

Goggleworks 2024

End-of-Year Exhibitions

Come together to celebrate the local community of studio artists, studio artist alumni, staff, instructors and studio renters. This annual commemoration provides a unique chance to see the evolution and varied expressions of new and established artists in the GoggleWorks family. For more info visit goggleworks.org.

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts | Reading

BENEFITS

Jan. 18

A Season Of Giving: Empower, Affirm & Uplift

The gala will welcome a new era of vibrant leadership and boundless possibilities at The LGBT Center of Reading, commencing an end-of-year giving campaign. VIP ticket holders are welcome to an exclusive cocktail hour and open bar starting at 5pm. For more info visit lgbtcenterofreading.com.

6pm | Trinity Lutheran Church | Reading

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Jan. 11

Something Old, Something New

Witness the magic of classical compositions from yesterday and today. Beginning with the “new,” Jonathan M. Blair’s piece, Umo’Ho’Ti (The Sacred Pole): Concerto for Cimbalom and Percussion, sets the stage. Following Blair’s piece are the works of Claude Debussy and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, respectively. For more info visit berkssinfonietta.org.

7:30pm | Atonement Lutheran Church | Wyomissing

love your smile

Dr. Andrea Smith is one of only 350 Maxillofacial Prosthodontists worldwide. More than 100 area dentists, oral surgeons and other dental specialists trust her to handle their patients’ complex or cosmetic dental needs, from a single perfect tooth to state-of-the-art full mouth reconstruction.

Specializing in the restoration and replacement of teeth, including:

» dental implant restorations

» crowns

» bridges

» dentures

» cosmetic dentistry

» full-mouth implant prosthetics such as Teeth-in-One-Day or All-on-4

Dr. Smith sees patients with a wide variety of dental concerns, such as:

» broken or missing teeth

» uncomfortable dentures

» extensive tooth wear

» dissatisfaction with the appearance of their smile

Dr. AnDreA Smith

955 BerkShire BlvD., Suite 104, WyomiSSing 484.577.3530 • berkspros.com

Jan. 20

Swan Lake

Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet, as presented by Classical Arts Entertainment and performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine. This full-scale production features Tchaikovsky’s famous score along with the elegant artistic direction of Andrei Litvinov and the magnificent choreography of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. For more info and tickets visit santander-arena.com.

3pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading

Jan. 25

Reading Symphony Orchestra: Mendelssohn And Mozart

Delight the senses by listening to two of the most prolific composers of the classical era. Three popular pieces by Mendelssohn and Mozart will be featured: Hebrides Overture, G minor Piano Concerto, and Symphony No. 41 “Jupiter.” For more info visit readingsymphony.org.

7:30pm | Santander Performing Arts Center | Reading

HISTORICAL

Jan. 18

Baltimore, Charlie Adams & The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum

Join the Berks History Center and Charlie Adams as they travel to Edgar Allan Poe’s House and Museum in Baltimore, MD. Learn all about Poe, from the beginning of his life to the end. There will be multiple planned stops and drive-bys along the way, and the tour will conclude with a reading of one of his most famous works, The Raven. Ticket prices range from $113-$138. For more info visit berkshistory.org.

7:23am-6:13pm | Shopping Center Parking Lot | Shillington

SPORTS

Jan. 12

Shiver By The River

This sought-after winter race series brings with it interconnectedness and devotion to the craft. Both the 5k and 10k races start at the same time, but the 10k runners complete the loop twice. For more info visit pagodapacers.com.

10am | Jim Dietrich Park | Reading

SNEAKERS! SNEAKERS!

BY HEATHER BAVER

Set yourself up for fitness success. Whether you’re hitting the trail or racetrack, walking or running, there’s a sneaker to meet your specific needs. Take a look at these great options for men and women, all available at Fleet Feet West Reading. Stay active with stylish sneakers featuring cutting-edge technology.

MAX CUSHION

1. PAMPERED COMFORT.

If you’re going to be on your feet for extended periods, look no further than the Karhu Mestari Run. Plushy AeroFoam your feet for a little extra TLC. Glide through your day as these shoes absorb impact every time you touch the ground.

2. HI-TECH MIDSOLE.

Treat your feet to the ultimate in cushioning. The Brooks Glycerin Max uses nitrogen-infused foam as part of their DNA Tuned midsoles. A combo of large and small cells in the foam keeps you moving with comfort. Slip into this cool, ultramodern design and get moving. Brooks Glycerin Max | $200

RUNNING SHOES

3. DAILY MOVER.

Redesigned to be lighter than ever, the New Balance 880v14 also boasts added cushion. Running or walking, this versatile shoe is made for all your daily activities. Crafted to comfortably hug your feet, it provides ideal support for fitness enthusiasts of all skill levels. New Balance 880v14 | $140 3

4. CUSHIONED PROPULSION.

Feel like you’re running on air. The On Cloudsurfer combines a colorful, breathable upper and ample cushioning — all in one lightweight shoe. The midsole is comprised of Helion™ Superfoam to help you go the distance by propelling you forward with every stride. On Cloudsurfer | $160

TRAIL RUNNING SHOES

5.

ALL-TERRAIN CHAMP.

Head outdoors and gain a new perspective. The Altra Timp 5’s Vibram® Megagrip outsole will ensure that you have maximum traction, even on steep or snowy trails. Made for adventures, this shoe pairs cushion with tons of toe space for added agility.

Altra Timp 5 | $155

6. HILL MASTER.

Scale the heights and explore it all. The Hoka Speedgoat 6 includes hoof-shaped lugs so you can get off the beaten path and easily navigate slippery surfaces. A bright upper adds fun styling, and the CMEVA midsole preserves your energy mile after mile.

Hoka Speedgoat 6 | $165

SHOES FOR RACING

8. STRIDE TO VICTORY.

Blast through the race with a bounce in your step. Hoka’s Cielo XL has a rocker shape that makes it a natural during a competition. In the midsole, a winged carbon plate is surrounded by PEBA foam to help you increase your momentum.

Hoka Cielo X1 | $275

9. VIBRANT ACCELERATION.

Go faster than ever before. SPEEDROLL technology combines with a nylon plate to make the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 full of propulsive energy. With its comfortable, secure fit, you can relax and focus on setting a new personal best for speed.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 | $170

7. PERFECT POSITIONING.

Go for the classic combo of comfort and stability. Now with an even more breathable upper and added cushioning, the Asics GT-2000 v13 helps protect your feet from rolling inward. Ideal for walking and running, its 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM ™ technology supports every step. Asics GT-2000 v13 | $140

WALKING SHOES

10. STEP EASY.

Stroll through the day with optimal ease. The supportive cushion made from DNA Loft v3 foam is the ideal blend of softness and springiness. Made for all different foot shapes, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 will make the miles roll by during long walks.

Brooks Ghost Max 2 | $150

IYAS/ADOBE STOCK

5 Things to Keep You Warm

BY HEATHER BAVER

beat the cold by making sure you’re comfortably warm. Whether you’re staying in or going out, we’ve got plenty of ideas so you can be cozy, stylish and have fun. No matter how low the temps drop, you’ll meet winter’s challenges head-on with these five options.

Blanket Statement.

Keep a blanket handy and revel in snuggly softness. The knit design includes an intricate pattern of interlocking cables and is perfect for cozying up while reading or watching TV. The deep blue shade enhances your décor with a colorful accent when you place it on a sofa or chair.

Quinn Chunky Diamond Knit Cotton Throw in Denim | $39.99 | Anita Trinket | 101 S. Richmond St., Fleetwood | 484.332.7682 | anitatrinket.com

of silky-soft fox fur and has a cropped hem. Choose from an array of colors, including natural shades and brilliantly dyed hues. For years of enjoyment, get your fur cleaned and professionally stored during the off-season.

Crystal Fox Crop Jacket | contact for pricing

Pollack Fashion Outerwear | 1643 Lancaster Avenue, Reading | 610.781.4099 | pollackfurs.com

to add gradual sweetness to your drink.

Light Up the Night.

Savor the darkness and chat with friends beside an outdoor fire. With its sleek design, this steel firepit looks stunning and includes thoughtful features so you can enjoy a smokeless, easyto-start blaze. Enhance your experience with live-fire cooking accessories and transform your fire pit into a grill or pizza oven.

Hybrid Handwarmer.

Choose a mitten/glove combo to keep your hands toasty in the coldest conditions. Inside these mittens, half-finger gloves provide extra warmth. Pop the tops open anytime you need to perform more nimble tasks, whether you’re fishing or answering a quick text. When you’re done, secure the mitten for added protection.

WINDSTOPPER® Foldover Fishing Mitt | $79.95 TCO Fly Shop | 2229 Penn Avenue, West Lawn 610.678.1899 | tcoflyfishing.com

WIN IT!

Breeo X Series 24 Corten Smokeless Wood Fire Pit | $599.99 | Weaver’s Hardware

732 Fleetwood-Lyons Rd., Fleetwood | 610.944.7681

905 W. Postal Rd., Douglassville | 610.385.4600

4610 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring

484.878.2570 | weavershardware.com

Divine Deciduous | $16 | A Light in the Attic Modern Speakeasy | 719 Penn Avenue, 2nd Fl., West Reading | 610.396.2842 | alightintheatticwr.com

Warm your heart this winter with a complimentary 1-year subscription to Berks County Living for yourself or to gift to a friend. Enter online at berkscountyliving.com.

&DaR a

September 14, 2024

ROBBIE

Adrienne Beck Photography

How It Started

Surprisingly, it all started at a wedding! Dara and Robbie met at a mutual friend’s wedding when she was a bridesmaid and he was attending as a friend of the groom. Friends also helped connect them, and their first date was at Nonno Alby’s in West Reading. They were immediately and mutually smitten.

The Proposal

Dara explains it as a traditional proposal with a twist. It all happened at the Philadelphia Flower Show. Recalls Dara, “Robbie totally surprised me and had the entire family in on it. My son, Ben, and our first child to be, Collins (in my belly), were there, too.”

A romantic at heart, Robbie asked for Dara’s hand in the Butterfly Conservatory. She later found out he had attended the show days before and spoke to the owner to set up the surprise. After the proposal and acceptance, a beautiful floral crown was placed on Dara’s head.

Butterflies have a certain significance to Dara. She says, “They’re a way to remember loved ones who have passed, specifically my Mom and Nanny.” The whole thing was recorded by Robbie’s sisters hiding in the wings.

The Big Day

On their wedding day, the pair welcomed guests to the Reading Public Museum for their ceremony, officiated by their best friend, Theresa Folino. A harpist played their favorite music, and Dara wore a lace dress by La Perle purchased at Dressed In Love, West Reading. Robbie wore a tuxedo by Vera Wang. In attendance were Dara’s family, Nancy and Schuyler Deale, and Robbie’s father, Robert Fyock. Their son, Ben, 7, and daughter, Collins, 1.5, played the roles of Ring Bearer and Flower Girl, respectively. Ben adorably pulled Collins down the aisle in a white wedding wagon. Jacquelyn Folino served as Maid of Honor and Sal Folino as Best Man.

At the reception held at Eight Twenty Events in Wyomissing,

the décor theme of vintage botanicals with a terracotta scheme played out beautifully with florals from Events by Kelly of Leesport. In lieu of favors for guests, the couple made a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, Lancaster County, in honor of Robbie’s late mother, Gloria Fyock, who lost her battle with cancer just before her granddaughter was born.

CATERING ELEGANCE , ONE BITE AT A TIME

JUST MARRIED

Eats consisted of Steak Frites and Chicken Marsala, catered by Sly Fox in Wyomissing, as well as a variety of mini desserts and the vanillaon-vanilla cake by Rose from Mom Chaffe’s in West Reading. There was also a fun photo booth as well as a late-night slider bar and specialty drinks by The Bar Cart, West Reading. Bunch of Funk provided the music for the evening.

The couple shared their first dance to You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne.

For Dara, the highlight of the day was marrying her best friend alongside their children. She recalls, “We lit a unity candle with our children.” She also loved the energy on the dance floor, saying, “After our first dance it broke into a dance party.”

Robbie also enjoyed sharing in the day with their children as well as seeing his bride walk down the aisle. He says, “I was touched by the speeches and toasts from our friends.”

The Honeymoon & Future Plans

Their honeymoon has yet to be determined. For now, Dara, a personal shopper/stylist, and Robbie, co-vice president of Blackboard and Casework Design, Inc., Reading, look forward to raising their children in their Wyomissing home.

Rings: Van Scoy Jewelers, Wyomissing

Hair:

Shelby Weatherholtz, FOX + FERN Collective, West Reading

Makeup:

Jenny Smith, Global Makeup Artist

Roxy Jackson of Roxy Jackson

Makeup Artistry, Berks County

DREAM WEDDING VENUE

Perfect For Any Event

Step into elegance. Host your next event in a setting that exudes sophistication. Our luxurious ballroom and cathedral event spaces are available for rent, offering the perfect backdrop for any occasion. We welcome you to stop in and view our many options today!

Why Choose Us?

Breathtaking Design: High ceilings, stunning chandeliers, and luxurious finishes.

Exceptional Amenities: Customizable layouts, and premium vendor options.

Prime Location: Easily accessible with parking in the heart of the City of Reading.

Professional Support: Our experienced event team is here to make your vision a reality.

Weddings & Receptions: Create unforgettable moments in romantic elegant settings.

Corporate Events: Impress clients and colleagues with professional yet luxurious spaces.

Gala Dinners& Fundraisers: Host high-profile events with style and finesse.

Milestone Celebrations: Birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions, made unforgettable.

Cultural & Community Events: From banquets to performances, our spaces are versatile and welcoming.

Lindsey Rachel Photography & Leah

May 4, 2024 WaYNe

How It Started

Their love story started in an old, breezy corner of the Pourhouse American Grille in Fleetwood. Leah was working behind the bar when Wayne walked in the door, visiting the area on a contracting job. Before long, Wayne’s face became a familiar one at the Pourhouse as he visited often over the course of a few months. On his third stop in, Leah took a bold step.

She recalls, “Armed with an old-school approach, I scribbled my number on a piece of paper and playfully slapped it on his tailgate before he drove away. To my delight, he reached out, and thus our journey began.”

Months into the relationship, Wayne asked Leah’s parents for their blessing in proposing.

The Proposal

On their third-month dating anniversary and while they were decorating their first apartment together for Christmas, Wayne got down on one knee and asked Leah to marry him. They recall it was a moment filled with love and joy, perfectly encapsulating their whirlwind romance. Over the next two years, they gathered items and décor in preparation for their wedding day.

The Big Day Friends and family gathered at Leatherman Farm in Hamburg to watch the couple tie the knot. Leah wore a gown embroidered in floral lace from Dressed In Love, West Reading. The men looked dapper in their tuxedos from Men’s Wearhouse in Wyomissing. Present were the bride’s parents, Todd and Sheri Schaeffer, as well as the groom’s parents, Christine and Wayne Whiteside, Jr. Leah’s sister, Brooke Schaeffer, served as Maid of Honor, and Wayne’s longtime best friend, Mike

Simmermon, served as Best Man. Leah’s godfather, Carl Wolfe, got ordained just to marry the bride and groom and was the officiant. During a special ceremonial bonding, the couple’s best friend, Taylor Zocco, a tattooist at Inked Anatomy in Exeter Township, inked the pair’s initials on their ring fingers.

At the rustic, barn-themed reception, shades of cabernet, black and white prevailed as Leah also acted as her own wedding planner, sourcing her floral arrangements from Sam’s Club and having them beautifully crafted by Lori Davis of Alburtis. Guests enjoyed eats from Mission BBQ, Wyomissing, as well as a red velvet cake baked by Court’s Custom Creations, Leesport. The dessert table was a highlight, featuring red velvet cookies, brownies, Oreo cupcakes, strawberryvanilla cupcakes, cheesecake bites, chocolate-covered pretzels

JUST MARRIED

and Rice Krispies treats, all put together by Stay Sweet Treats Co. of Fleetwood, led by Whittany Rouse.

The couple shared their first dance to Say You Won’t Let Go by James Arthur, and their Polaroid guest book was a hit, as was the opportunity to jot down well wishes on playing cards. The pair are avid Rummy 500 players, after all.

Looking back on it all, for Leah, the highlight was the couple’s first look. She says, “We had been engaged for three years, yet I felt like I was seeing him for the first time as I walked up to tap him on his shoulder. There were so many smiles and love and laughs. It was the best day of my life, aside from my daughter being born.”

That first look was also a standout moment for Wayne. He says, “I hadn’t seen her all day, yet we were so close many times, so it was special to me. I felt lost all morning. Then, when I saw her, the world faded away, and it was just her and I.”

The Honeymoon & Future Plans

For their honeymoon, the pair took a trip to the Outer Banks and stayed in Wayne’s parents’ motorhome, situated right on the beach, soaking up the sun and each other’s company. They’re currently saving up for a dream trip to Greece. As for the future, the Blandon couple looks forward to growing their cleaning business, Whiteside Cleaning LLC, and building upon their entrepreneurial skills together.

Hair: Krissi Ekvall of Elevation Beauty Studio Wyomissing

Carrie Kizuka Photography & Emily October 13, 2024 PETER

How It Started

They say long-distance relationships don’t work. But for every rule, there needs to be an exception.

That’s how it went for Peter and Emily. The pair met at the engagement party of respective friends – Emily as a bridesmaid and Peter as a groomsman. They hit it off, but Emily recalls, “I never imagined it would transform into anything beyond mutual attraction. After all, he lived 140 miles away in New Jersey, and I had no desire to abandon my native Berks County.”

Distance couldn’t stop Peter. For nearly a year he made the weekly 140-mile trek to see Emily.

Thinking back, there were a number of coincidences that may have pointed to this match being meant to be. Peter lost his father at a young age, after which he adopted his father’s NFL team (Washington Commanders) as his

own. Peter later lost his mother not long after he met Emily, who happens to be a Green Bay Packers fan. (She got it from her father, who taught her all about football.) The first NFL season after the now newlyweds began dating, the Packers traveled to FedEx Field, home of the Washington Commanders. The game date was October 23 the day after Emily’s birthday and the day of Peter’s father’s birthday. Emily and Peter attended the game, and while the Packers lost, they both gained something special.

The Proposal

Peter did what he could to keep the proposal a surprise. He and Emily had spoken about the idea of a fall wedding. He even had her design her ideal engagement ring. What she didn’t know was that two weeks before the ring was supposed to arrive, Peter found a nearly identical version of it and used it as a loaner to pop the question. He timed it so that he could ask over Thanksgiving while visiting Emily’s parents. For their engagement shoot the pair did a ceremonial “jersey swap” of their favored football teams, using the “Montagna” last name and wedding date on their jerseys.

The Big Day

On their wedding day, Emily wore a dress from The Country Bride and Gent, Lansdale, and met her tuxedo-wearing groom at the altar. Looking on were the bride’s parents, John and Tammy Orischak, and the groom’s aunt, Christine Montagna. His parents, Vincent Montagna and Christina Rott, who have passed, were there in spirit, giving their blessing. Jaclyn Abbazia, Emily’s college friend and one half of the marriage that brought her and Peter together, served as Matron of Honor. Peter’s childhood best friend, Daniel Mendoza, was Best Man.

At the rustic, country-themed reception with burgundy and gold details and featuring sola wood flowers, the newlyweds shared their first dance to Next Thing You Know by Jordan Davis. Guests enjoyed a meal from Mission BBQ catering in Wyomissing as well cupcakes in pumpkin and red velvet (both with cream cheese icing) to match

JUST MARRIED

the single-tier wedding cake enjoyed by the bride and groom and wedding party: a red velvet semi-naked cake with cream cheese icing. They worked off the calories dancing to tunes spun by DJ Scotty T. and Company of Fleetwood.

For Emily, a standout moment was a funny one. She planned a fake first look with one of his groomsmen who dressed the part in a wedding dress and veil. She recalls, “Peter laughed so hard seeing his friend standing there dressed as the bride while all the other groomsmen applauded.” Peter gifted Emily a line dance he learned for his garter toss song, Boot Scootin’ Boogie. She says, “He dressed the part and absolutely blew me away with the dance!”

For Peter, the most magical moment was simple: “Reading our vows; hearing her say, ‘I do.’ It wasn’t only the highlight of my day, but of my life so far.”

The Honeymoon & Future Pla ns

The couple celebrated their marriage with a honeymoon week in Italy. Peter always wanted to visit his heritage, and they thought celebrating the honeymoon in Italy would be a wonderful way to check that off of his bucket list. As for the future, the Womelsdorf residents hope to start growing their family soon while they put down permanent roots locally. Emily is the Community Relations Coordinator for Berks County Public Libraries while Peter works in office support for the County of Berks Clerk of Courts.

wedding Reception Guide

George Baer Chapel & Reception

Contact: Kelly Weir book@abrahamlincolnevents.com

Estate Winery info@folinoestate.com

weddings, quinceañeras, birthdays, company events and tradeshows. 100 N. Fifth St., Reading | 610.372.7200 abrahamlincolnevents.com

The Barn at Walnut Grove

Contact: Donna Laudadio donna@walnutgrovebarn.com

Located in Lenhartsville, The Barn at Walnut Grove is eastern PA's premier event venue with a zip line, brewery, treehouse and so much more! Call 610.721.6710 today to schedule a tour for your wedding or corporate event. 813 Old Route 22, Lenhartsville 610.721.6710 | walnutgrovebarn.com

Bear Creek Mountain Resort

Contacts: Aimee Whitenight & Travis Whitaker

Bear Creek Mountain Resort combines comfort with distinctive aesthetics and charm. Boasting spectacular mountain views throughout all three of our unique ballrooms, our experienced team of event professionals will be by your side every step of the way to help turn your wedding vision into a reality. 101 Doe Mountain Lane, Macungie 1.866.754.2822 | bcmountainresort.com

Hilton Reading

Contact: Nate Rothermel Nate.Rothermel@Hilton.com

Invite up to 120 guests to an intimate celebration in the beautiful Callowhill Ballroom or gather 120 to 500 in the Center Park Ballroom to dine and dance the night away. Ask about our customizable wedding packages, overnight guest room accommodations and hotel shuttle service. Choose your menu with our executive chef at a tasting and enjoy personalized attention from the event planner and catering team. From the first kiss to the last dance, we are dedicated to making your wedding day seamless and memorable. 701 Penn St., Reading | 610.375.8000 reading.doubletree.com

Located in the countryside, Folino Estate Winery gives the feeling of your wedding being held at an Italian villa, without the plane ticket! The event space can accommodate up to 220 guests and features an outdoor terrace with a ceremony site overlooking a beautiful vineyard. Enhance your experience and book the Vintner’s Inn for your bridal party and create a wedding destination for you and your guests. 340 Old Route 22, Kutztown 484.452.3633 | folinoestate.com

Fox Rose Farm

Contacts: Brian & Joanna Hersh foxrosefarmevents@gmail.com

A picturesque barn wedding and event venue with updated conveniences while maintaining its historical charm. The upstairs of the barn includes original wide plank floors, a 30-foot-high ceiling and exposed wood beams. The lower level is temperature controlled and provides a cozy, intimate space.

Our beautiful, historical church offers the wedding day of your dreams! Elegant stained-glass windows, high ceilings, a 75-foot, aisle-to-altar walkway and historical ambiance. All religions and couples are welcomed to celebrate their special day with their own officiant. A reception hall is located on the main level for receptions and special day events.

46 S. Sixth St., Reading | 610.372.7200 abrahamlincolnevents.com

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts

Contact: Margaret Pendleton

The former safety goggle factory’s eclectic spaces range from intimate galleries to open, loft-like studios. Original hardwood floors, high ceilings, natural light and exposed brick walls provide a one-of-a-kind environment for your wedding. GoggleWorks offers free parking for your guests.

201 Washington St., Reading 610.374.4600, ext. 115 | goggleworks.org

Graystone Farm

Contact: Kai Miller, owner contact@eventsatgraystonefarm.com

Create the wedding of your dreams on our 9-acre family farm. We focus on your love, your family and your memories through open spaces, gorgeous surroundings and a sense of adventure.

416 Snyder Rd., Reading | 484.269.0880 eventsatgraystonefarm.com

Holiday Inn –Morgantown

Contact: Kayla Lane klane@prohosp.com

Providing affordable elegance for on-site events and overnight guestrooms. 6170 Morgantown Rd., Morgantown 610.286.3000 holidayinn.com/morgantownpa

Inn at Centre Park

Contact: Dennis Spotts innkeeper@theinnatcentrepark.com

Victorian design at its most extravagant is what you’ll find in this 18-room stone mansion. Whether an intimate wedding for 30 or a cocktail reception for 90, The Inn at Centre Park is the perfect place to celebrate life’s moments. 730 Centre Avenue, Reading 610.374.8557 | theinnatcentrepark.com

The Gables at Overlook Mansion Bed and Breakfast

Contacts: Cesar J. Gonzales, Jr. John Peppard J. Gonzales, owners info@overlookmansion.us

Full-service bed and breakfast.

Intimate ceremony and reception on-site with beautifully grounds at a historic mansion featuring two suites plus two guest rooms to accommodate your guests. It’s the only place you need to be on your wedding day or for any other event

620 Centre Avenue, Reading 610.373.1522 | overlookmansion.us

Reading Public Museum

Contact: Braden Stone braden.stone@ readingpublicmuseum.org

A venue as unique as you. A staff as committed to excellence as you are to each other. A day surely to be as unforgettable as the vows you will exchange and the memories you will create together. The Reading Public Museum is home to the most treasured and distinctive wedding venues in Berks County. Contact us for a complimentary tour to find out why we have been voted “Best Place to Hold an Event” eight years running!

500 Museum Rd., Reading 610.371.5850, ext. 230 readingpublicmuseum.org/ book-your-event

to simplify the many details involved in planning, completing and enjoying your wedding reception.

600 E. Penn Avenue, Unit 1, Wernersville 610.376.1101 specialoccasionsbypanevino.com

The Gables at Stirling Guest Hotel

Contacts: Cesar J. Gonzales, Jr. & John Peppard J. Gonzales, owners stirlingguesthotel@gablesbb.com

Full-service bed and breakfast. Ceremony and reception on-site with beautifully landscaped grounds at a historic mansion featuring 15 suites to accommodate your guests. It’s the only place you need to be on your wedding day or for any other event.

1120 Centre Avenue, Reading 610.373.1522 | stirlingguesthotel.us

Stokesay Castle

Contact: weddings@stokesay.net

for the Arts

Contact: Heather Boyer rentals@wcrcenter.org

Set in historic downtown Reading, this 19th-century building serves as a one-of-a-kind venue to showcase wedding receptions, performances and exhibitions for the community in a newly renovated space.

140 N. Fifth St., Reading | 484.604.0890 wcrcenter.org

Wrennie Ruth’s

Contact: Kelly Piccioni

Wrennie Ruth's is the perfect rustic-industrial location for your intimate celebratory events such as microweddings, showers and parties. Wrennie Ruth's is an all-inclusive event space that carefully curates vendors and decor customized to your needs and event vision. Enjoy your day; don't wish it over: let Wrennie's plan your next event!

The Santander Performing Center offers three classic ballrooms accommodating up to 350 guests. Let them help you create a memorable event for you

Let us help you bring your dream of a fairytale wedding to life! With our picturesque grounds and venue, we have the picture-perfect backdrop to make the most magical day! With its elegant decor, historic ambiance and top-notch service, Stokesay Castle ensures a memorable and romantic wedding experience. With our newly renovated ballroom, we have the perfect sophisticated-modern setting to begin your Happily Ever After!

141 Stokesay Castle Lane, Reading stokesay.net

1051 Cross Keys Rd., Leesport 610.721.7924 | wrennieruths.com

Center for the Arts

140 N. Fifth St., Reading

484.604.0890 | wcrcenter.org

Set in the historic Downtown Reading Callowhill District, this breathtaking 19th-century building serves as a one-of-a-kind venue to showcase wedding receptions, performances and exhibitions for the community in a newly renovated, accessible space. The two-story auditorium and stage offer a unique setting with incredible acoustics to create an intimate atmosphere. The WCR Center is the perfect venue for your wedding or event.

Klein Transportation

When it comes to your upcoming nuptials, know that our staff will work with you to understand your wants and needs. From our wedding coordinator to our trained and uniformed professional vehicle operators, you will not be disappointed in the quality of service we will provide to both you and your guests. Let us help check transportation off your to-do list!

Klein Transportation is one of the few family-owned-and-operated companies in Southeastern Pennsylvania. For more than 65 years, we have taken great pride in our staff, vehicles and the service that we provide. The additional personal touch, willingness to go the extra mile, along with the knowledge and experience in the travel industry, is what sets us apart!

Baja Beach Wellness

Locations in Sinking Spring, Wyomissing, Laureldale & Exeter bajabeachwellness.com

Brides, glow inside and out with Baja Beach Wellness — now offering Whole Body Cryotherapy, Lipo Light Body Sculpting, Infrared Sauna Pods, Red Light Therapy and Wellfit Advanced Skin Care Hydration treatments. Complete your bridal prep with our flawless Custom Airbrush Spray Tanning for a natural, photo-ready glow. Discover Berks County’s premier bridal wellness destination with locations in Sinking Spring, Wyomissing, Laureldale and Exeter.

316 W. Main St., Birdsboro 610.582.2243 | readingcoffee.com

Make your celebration unforgettable with our ground coffee favors, perfect for weddings, baby showers or welcome bags! Each bag is filled with a coffee blend of your choice, and the label can be fully customized to match your theme. A unique, local and thoughtful gift your guests will love!

event decor by Event Elevations, complimentary shuttle service and parking ensure a seamless experience for you and your guests. Let us help you create the perfect wedding celebration!

Fresh Cake by Suzy

Based in Wyomissing & Reading freshcakebysuzy.com freshcakebysuzy@gmail.com

Make your Big Day even more unforgettable with an artfully designed and outrageously delicious wedding cake from Fresh Cake by Suzy based in Wyomissing. Stuffed cookies and French macarons are available, too. Make memorable moments even sweeter. Visit online at freshcakebysuzy.com for flavor options, inspiring photos and more. Email inquiries to Suzy at freshcakebysuzy@gmail.com

The Barn at Walnut Grove

The Barn at Walnut Grove is the only wedding venue in PA with a zipline, treehouse, fainting goats and a brewery! Our one-of-a-kind spot is located just two miles off Interstate 78 between Berks and Lehigh counties.

Our outside ceremony site, overlooking the various shades of green farm fields with the Blue Mountains and Appalachian Mountains in the distance, is breathtaking. Liz and David, married this past September, say, “Donna and Dave were amazing. They made the entire day run so smoothly and made everyone feel so comfortable. So many of our guests came to us and said this was the coolest venue they had ever been to. Fantastic.”

Contact Donna at 610.721.6710 or donna@walnutgrovebarn.com to schedule a private tour.

Knight’s Rental Inc.

1035 James Dr., Leesport 610.750.6178 knightsrental.com

Serving the tri-county area and beyond since 1960, Knight’s Rental offers tents, tables, chairs, linens, dance flooring, staging, china, glassware and more. Contact us for your party rental needs. Thank you to all of our customers!

The Inn at Centre Park

The Inn at Centre Park is elegance at its finest. Located in Reading’s Centre Park Historic District, our inn is ideal for weddings, dinners or receptions. With 35+ years of experience, our innkeeper ensures a stress-free, memorable event with incredible menu options. Host your special moments with a touch of classic charm at our historic inn.

Acacia Flower & Gift Shop

2834 Shillington Rd., Sinking Spring 610.376.8767 | acaciaflowershop.com

Acacia Flower Shop has been creating beautiful floral arrangements for weddings for more than three decades. We can execute your vision, be it traditional or contemporary, grand or intimate, held in your backyard, at a local venue or even out of state. Count on us to make your experience stress-free. Visit us on Instagram @acaciaflowershop for inspiration and request your free consultation online.

Sweet Ride Ice Cream LLC

542 Penn Avenue, West Reading 610.823.0265

sweetrideicecream.com

Nothing says “it’s a celebration” like ice cream. Our Sweet Rides are the perfect surprise to up the fun factor for any event. Imagine the surprise your guests will feel when one of our Sweet Rides pulls up outfitted to serve your group in style! Choose from our vintage ice cream bicycle, our mobile ice cream parlor or our ice cream truck. It’s guaranteed to be unforgettable.

Reading Dermatology Associates

3317 Penn Avenue, West Lawn | 610.750.7891 | readingderm.com

Look your very best on your special day! Reading Dermatology’s Medical, Cosmetic and Skin Cancer Center (RDA) offers an ever-expanding line of medically based treatments providing patients with the most cutting-edge options for best results in attaining healthy, radiant-looking skin. RDA, located in West Lawn, has been providing skin care to its family of patients for more than 15 years. Amy Hendrix, CRNP, and her staff of skin care experts develop customized cosmetic skin care plans that deliver best results. A full array of procedures is available in RDA’s expanded cosmetic center, including Botox, filler, chemical peels, Hydrafacial®, Medi-infusion, Microneedling, IV therapy, lasers and more. Call for info on Botox parties!

Fox Rose Farm

965 Park Rd., Blandon

610.709.7438 | foxrosefarm.com

Fox Rose Farm is a picturesque barn wedding venue. Renovations provide updated conveniences while maintaining its historical charm. The upstairs of the barn includes original wide plank floors, a 30-foot-high ceiling and exposed wood beams. The lower level of the barn is temperature controlled and provides a cozy, intimate space. Fox Rose Farm offers endless opportunities to create the wedding you’ve always dreamed of!

1051 Cross Keys Rd., Leesport 610.721.7924 | kellysflorist.com

We feature a naturalistic style incorporating locally sourced, foraged and American-grown premium florals. Specializing in weddings, events and bespoke plant and floral services, we also rent our studio space, Wrennie Ruth’s, as an intimate venue with rustic-industrial charm. As a multi-generational horticulturist, Kelly creates designs inspired from nature with unexpected elements and colors. Our creative concepts have been featured in publications along with our extensive vendor network.

Cho Plastic Surgery

2201 Ridgewood Rd., Wyomissing 484.709.2956 | choplasticsurgery.com

Look and feel radiant on your wedding day with Cho Plastic Surgery. Led by Dr. Christine H. Cho, the practice offers personalized treatments from facial surgery and cosmetic injectables to laser skin rejuvenation and medical-grade skincare. Their expert team, including licensed aesthetician Ashley Berger, ensures you achieve your beauty goals with safety and precision. Discover tailored solutions that help you shine on your special day and beyond.

LEO Design Gallery & Flower Shoppe

1295 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing

610.670.6502 | leodesigngallery.com

We are dedicated to achieving excellence in every aspect of our business, providing everything from exceptional floral design and unique gifts to corporate services, weddings and special event planning and rentals. Our family-owned company boasts a state-of-the-art floral design studio located in Wyomissing, and we are proud to offer same-day flower delivery throughout the area. Visit us for inspiring gift ideas, fresh florals, distinctive party rentals and more!

Graystone Farm

416 Snyder Rd., Reading | 484.269.0880 | eventsatgraystonefarm.com

Your love story is unique. Your wedding should be, too! At Events at Graystone Farm, we offer an enchanting, rustic setting for a celebration that’s all about you, your loved ones... and maybe a small herd of rescue animals. Just a short drive away, our venue blends historic charm with modern amenities to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for your big day. With stress-less packages and pricing, plus our day-of coordination services, we help you design the wedding of your dreams without breaking your budget. Our family is ready to help yours craft the unforgettable moments that reflect your love. Ready to start planning? Call today and let’s make your dream wedding a reality at Graystone Farm!

Fancy Seats

2715 Hollywood Ct., Mt. Penn

610.763.2569

fancyseatweddings.com

Since 2008, Fancy Seats, a local, family-owned company, has been working with area brides to help take their special day to the next level with décor, linens, sashes, napkins, table runners, backdrop drapings and elegant chair covers. Each order is tailored to fit each individual’s needs when they need it, earning the business 5-star ratings on Wedding Wire and The Knot

signature drinks, beverage and bar services, and full-service catering. We offer complete event coordination, waitstaff and dietary accommodations to ensure every guest is well taken care of. As a womenowned business, we’re here to make your wedding day as seamless and special as possible.

Commerce Dr., Wyomissing 484.509.4164 | gildeddesignstudio.com

At Gilded Design Studio, we believe jewelry is not just an accessory; it’s a personal statement, a whisper of mystery and it speaks volumes about who you are. Nestled in the heart of creativity, our studio is a sanctuary where exquisite custom pieces come to life using CAD software and 3D renderings. We specialize in tailoring each piece we create to be as unique as your story. We love all love.

Pop Adding a of Color at Home

BY HEATHER BAVER

Sometimes a little bit of color is all you need to brighten up and refresh your space. We talked to three Berks-based businesses to get their expertise on ways to add colorful accents all around your home. Consider these creative, inspiring strategies as you delve into your latest decorating project.

Get Colorful with Décor

“I love to incorporate a pop of color in my clients’ homes with my specialty print fabrics!” notes Cynthia Golden, interior designer, A Golden Eye Design. “A signature print is always sure to stand out and add a little lift to the room.” Golden offers her clients a plethora of colorful patterns. She frequently uses eyecatching fabrics for window treatments. When paired with blinds, a fabric valance creates a

stylish topper that adds a polished, cohesive look to the room. Specialty fabrics can also breathe new life into furniture. For instance, a chair can be recovered in a brilliant new color to provide a completely new aesthetic.

Jena Murphy, interior designer and owner of J. Storm Designs, is a fan of using throw pillows and other colorful accessories. “If you are looking for more of a bold choice, bringing in a colorful rug can be a nice pop, but also ground the space,” she explains. “If you want to do something more unique, try finding lamps or an accent chair that has a fun pattern that complements the color you are trying to bring into the space.”

“Color is my favorite part of design,” enthuses Melinda O’Neill, president of Empire Home Center. In addition to throw pillows, area rugs and lampshades, O’Neill recommends adding in a colorful painting or greenery for a burst of nature-inspired color. In addition, she likes to incorporate vibrant accent tables in shades like teal, red and green to serve as a lively, functional touch of color. Best of all, any small décor items “are easily able to be switched from season to season or just on a whim,” O’Neill observes.

Golden also likes to use rugs as a practical, durable way to add color. “I specifically use hand-tied oriental rugs on the floors for great bursts of color and pattern,” she explains. “We choose the flooring first and work up; that’s a good starting point for setting the tone of the room.” Brilliantly hued rugs are perfect for achieving a harmonious look. “A quiet room can be achieved with upholstery being neutral and a Nomadic colorful rug (all wool will last decades),” Golden adds.

A Golden Eye Design

J. Storm Designs

A Gol d e n Eye Design

Explore Your Options

Sometimes getting started is the toughest part of an interior design project. When you’re thinking about adding color to your home, Murphy suggests a little introspection. “Think of colors that make you happy,” she says. If you’d like guidance on making your décor more colorful, seek out professional expertise. “I tend to suggest going with more timeless or natureinspired colors,” Murphy advises. “You don’t want to select something that is too bold or trendy that you will get sick of within a matter of months.”

For O’Neill, her favorite starting point is a cherished object. “Pick a piece that you absolutely love and start building around that,” she suggests. “Start with a rug or accent cabinet; then I would choose coordinating pieces to bring around the house.”

Partnering with an interior designer can also open up lots of creative opportunities. “We have products that you will not find in any store,” notes Golden. “Our workrooms are high quality and usually local to south central PA.” When you’re evaluating a space, don’t forget to look up. “I love to incorporate the fifth wall, aka the ceiling,” says Murphy. “Most people forget to pay attention to the details of a ceiling when, sometimes, that can be what transforms the space the most! I like to add bold colors or even wallpaper to a ceiling to elevate the space.” To create a cozy breakfast nook, Murphy painted the ceiling a warm sage green and added some matching throw pillows on the banquette. In a dining room, her use of a striking floral print draws the eye upward. The deep teals of the wallpaper complement the wall art behind the room’s buffet.

Big Projects = Colorful Opportunities

If a big renovation project is part of your plan, consider the more permanent features of the room. “Now is the time to think about color for the structural surfaces,” advises Golden. Kitchens are a natural place where renovation meets color. “Look no further for color in the kitchen than surface tops, like Cambria quartz.” These countertop options include swirling patterns of blue and green, some with iridescent flecks of color. As an alternative, Murphy suggests going with a colorful kitchen island to accent your space.

For bigger projects, O’Neill likes to focus on the cabinets and adding wallpaper. Consider all the cabinets in your home, not just the kitchen. “The cabinets can be for a smaller area such as a vanity, coffee bar or laundry room,” O’Neill explains. “There are gorgeous greens, blues, pinks and reds. Any of these would start great color in your home; then you build around that.”

Beyond cabinets and counters, Murphy and Golden agree that a backsplash is a perfect way to add a pop of bold color to your kitchen. Golden’s a fan of colorful backsplashes made from Sonoma Tile. Handcrafted in California, these tiles are available in a variety of shades, including reds, yellows, greens and blues. If committing to long-term colors isn’t your style, Murphy has a helpful suggestion. “If you don’t want to do something that is permanent, finding some colorful barstools or counter accessories is a great choice,” she says. As a bonus, these suggestions can be incorporated into your kitchen even if you aren’t contemplating a major redesign.

Empire Home Center

Indulge your Inner Artist

Paint is a go-to option anytime your home needs color. Whether you’re perusing color samples in person or online, the options can get a little overwhelming. Golden encourages people to have fun by experimenting. “Get a gallon and try it out yourself. Overall, the cost of one gallon of paint goes a long way in expressing yourself,” she explains. Best of all, when a pop of color is your goal, the project is more manageable. Rather than committing to a whole room, you can concentrate on a single wall. “I’d paint a focal wall a deep color, such as Benjamin Moore’s 2024 color of the year, Blue Nova 825, a deeply saturated blue with hints of hyacinth,” suggests Golden. Murphy likes accent walls, too, with a creative twist. “Try adding a pattern or detail with it, and

it really can transform a space with just a touch more work,” she explains. By dividing a wall into four triangles, each painted a different color, Murphy creates a perfect backdrop for a crib in a child’s room. As an alternative to paint, you can also use wallpaper on an accent wall. A vibrant floral pattern simulates the look of a mural and imbues a bedroom with just the right amount of color.

O’Neill likes to get creative with her paint locations. “My favorite places to add touches of paint color are inside the walls of built-in shelves, accent walls in any room and inside cabinet and dresser drawers,” she says. Besides offering a colorful surprise, painting these areas can be a very manageable project.

Empire Home Center

Colorful Room MVPs

When you’re looking at your whole house and deciding which rooms to make more colorful, some spaces are natural choices. O’Neill’s favorites are bedrooms and bathrooms. “They are quick pops of color to make you feel alive in the places you start your day,” she explains. “You can easily change this in each room by changing out bedding, pillows, shower curtains and area rugs.”

Golden likes to place color in shared spaces. “My favorite rooms to add a touch of color would be the kitchen, bath and main foyer,” she says. “This is where color is ideal because it can play off the cabinetry in the room and also make a statement upon entering the home.”

Pops of color can make a big impact in small spaces like bathrooms. “I love an unexpected fun powder room!” enthuses Murphy. “This gives guests a little fun surprise when you are entertaining, and since this isn’t a main living space, it’s not something that will overstimulate you.”

To add to the fun, bathrooms offer so many opportunities for getting creative with color. In one example, Murphy combined gray wainscoting with a whimsical wallpaper featuring dogs wearing sunglasses. “Doing a bold color for the walls, wallpaper, tile or even a vanity is a great way to bring in color,” Murphy observes. These bursts of color are

J. Storm Designs

J. Storm Designs

also effective at emphasizing the room’s other features. Bold teal tile offers the perfect counterpoint to a bathroom’s pale blue walls and highlights the warm wood on the vanity cabinet and mirror.

Besides being a joy to your eyes, color serves as a unifying theme when designing a room. “I love how you can pull one color through the room to really coordinate it, or go bold and do the entire room in the one color and white,” notes O’Neill. “Imagine a pink and white fur room. All the cabinets pink with white furry rugs and seating stools to start.”

No matter how or where you add color to your home, remember to have fun. “The best part of designing your home is the joy it can bring!” Golden says. “Don’t obsess over small stuff; it will all come together and flow when you relax!”

J.Storm Designs

Cynthia Golden

A Golden Eye Design

Galen Hall, Wernersville

484.529.5184 | agoldeneye.com

Jena Murphy

J. Storm Designs

610.858.8753

Melinda O’Neill

How do you know you’re getting what you need and at the best price when you are shopping for insurance? Unless you’re an expert, you might not. Don’t take any unnecessary risks — call on one of the professionals on this page for help.

COMPARE PROVIDERS. To get the best coverage possible, you need to shop around. Comparing providers, coverage options and more can save you hundreds of dollars every year.

GET SUFFICIENT COVERAGE. It’s usually not the best idea to go with the minimum amount of required insurance coverage. In some cases, doing so could cost you a lot more out of pocket than if you would have sprung for extra coverage.

BUNDLE YOUR SERVICES. Always check to see if grouping coverage, home and auto for example, can save you some money.

UPDATE YOUR POLICIES. Insurance isn’t always set it and forget it.

Consider remodeling you’ve done at home and how that impacts your homeowner’s policy. Do you have a new driver you need to add to an auto policy?

UNDERSTAND YOUR COVERAGE NEEDS. Do you rent your home and need renter’s insurance? Do you have disability coverage in place in case you’re injured? Review your insurance coverage options with a professional to be sure you have what you need in place.

MGS Insurance Agency, LLC

When do you need an agent like the people at MGS Insurance Agency?

To put it simply: before and after something goes wrong. MGS gets it right from the start and takes care of you in your time of need. Whether it is for car, home, life, health or your business insurance, we get it right and help you through it all. As testament, the average insurance agency retains 85 percent of its business from year to year. We, in our 45 years of existence, have retained 93 percent or more of our clients year after year. THAT’s how good we are at taking care of our clients. Give us a try.

TO SEEK HELP WHEN SHOPPING FOR INSURANCE

The Walizer Agency

Seth Walizer and his team at the Walizer Agency are grateful for the opportunity to serve policyholders in the Berks and surrounding counties. Seth brings with him nearly 30 years of insurance experience, starting with working with his father when he was only seven years old. The Walizer Agency focuses on providing superior individualized service with the option to create a Personal Price Plan, which customizes coverages for the price that is right for each customer.

Some of Seth’s professional accomplishments include being a five-time Million Dollar Roundtable and Chairman’s Circle member. The Walizer Agency looks forward to continuing to serve Berks and beyond for many years to come! Call or visit us online for your quote.

2 Meridian Blvd., Ste. 218, Wyomissing 610.926.2700 | sethwalizer.com

CrossKeys Insurance

Perfetto Insurance

CrossKeys Insurance Inc. has been Berks County’s key to security since 1997. At CrossKeys Insurance, we develop personalized insurance solutions for both individuals and businesses. As an independent agency, our advisors value the opportunity to build strong relationships with clients and focus on your needs, not the insurance company’s. We represent quality insurance carriers, including Erie Insurance Group, Grange Insurance Company and Progressive Insurance, to name a few.

Having served the Berks and surrounding counties for more than 27 years, our comprehensive products include auto, home, business and life insurances. Within our two office locations in Reading and Hamburg, our team holds licenses in 12 states and maintains 11 advanced insurance degrees. Our continued growth is a result of our corporate focus on personal attention for every client. Rest assured; you can count on us. CrossKeys Insurance will be there to support you through challenging times and major milestones alike.

5035 Pottsville Pike, Reading 303 State St., Hamburg 610.916.6190 | crosskeysins.com

Perfetto Insurance is your one-stop agency for all things insurance. They have been in business since 1971 and recently rebranded their look but are still the same independent insurance agency.

As brokers of insurance, they represent multiple carriers, allowing them to provide more options for their clients. The agency offers all forms of insurance, including auto, home, business, workers’ compensation, life, individual health, travel insurance and all Medicare plans, annuities, 401k and IRA rollovers.

The Perfetto staff includes certified specialists available to help with all insurance needs. Their combined experience provides comprehensive insurance and financial solutions. They can also help to educate and unravel the complexities of Medicare and supplemental plans.

Perfetto has been a trusted part of the Berks County community for generations and is committed to the old-fashioned values of honesty, integrity and customer satisfaction.

A GOLDEN DINING EXPERIENCE: Kinya Ramen in Wyomissing

BY MARIAN FRANCES WOLBERS & ABIGAIL STERNER

A relative newcomer to Wyomissing is Kinya Ramen, Japanese for “Golden House” ramen. This elegantly inviting restaurant certainly lives up to its name by serving up the gold standard of ramen to hungry diners. If you have only eaten this traditional Japanese dish as “cup noodles” or other instant fastramen varieties, your tastebuds will immediately recognize the difference at Kinya.

The chefs at Kinya, meticulously trained by Japanese ramen masters, take their time to properly prepare their signature broth, the cornerstone of their different varieties of ramen dishes, by slowly simmering the richest and most flavorful types of chicken and pork bones for up to four hours to extract the ultimate flavor. This creates a broth that coats the palate and excites the tastebuds with its robust profile.

Owner Jevan Chen explains, “Every detail matters the measurements, the sauce, the ingredients and the tools are all imported from Japan.” Chen smiles, adding, “We’re known as a very traditional ramen restaurant, and we want to create a golden dining experience.” In addition to steaming bowls of noodles, Kinya caters to anyone with a yen for everything from sushi to yakitori, boba drinks and mouthwatering desserts.

| PHOTOS BY HEIDI REUTER

Trinity Roll

ChickenSkewers

Kinya Ramen

Steaming Bowls of Yummy

The Miso Ramen is milky-tan with a miso (soy bean paste) and pork broth base that’s creamy smooth and somewhat sweet, topped with bamboo shoots, crunchy corn kernels, scallions, tender slices of chicken (or pork chashu), a seasoned boiled egg and narutomaki pink-and-white fish cake slices. The golden ramen noodles are just-thin but substantial and oh-so-authentic, providing warm comfort yearround, especially in winter, harking back to the interior moods of Kawabata’s famous novel, Snow Country

Shrimp Ramen loads four pieces of shrimp in cozy chicken broth and includes crabmeat, seaweed, egg and more, served with straight noodles. Chili paste lends peppery heat in Spicy Ramen with aromatic golden noodles and choices of chicken or pork. Veggie Ramen, Tonkatsu Ramen and other versions add to the robust noodle menu.

Perhaps best known of all is Kinya Ramen. Obviously, a dish that serves as the namesake of a restaurant must be something special indeed, and Kinya Ramen does not disappoint. Each bowl is made with a pork broth which possesses a depth of flavor that deserves to be celebrated. What makes this dish unique from their other bowls of ramen is the incorporation

of a house-made black garlic oil that adds an element of umami to the overall flavor profile. In your bowl, you’ll find thinly sliced roast pork belly, a lovely cooked jammy egg, fish cakes, sprouts, bamboo shoots and an enormous pile of engagingly slurpable noodles. Bonus: each bowl is topped with a square of edible gold leaf to remind diners that this is the gold standard for ramen. It’s truly a royal way to warm and satisfy the belly.

Trinity Sushi, Mushroom (Shiitake) Skewers & Boba

Choosing your sushi is delicious fun: no less than 11 specialty rolls are on the menu, plus traditional rolls, temaki and sushi tacos.

Trinity Roll, a signature roll, gets its name from its main stars: tuna, salmon and yellowtail. It literally melts in your mouth. Balance out the rich smoothness of the fish and avocado with some spicy mayo, a biting dab of pungent wasabi or a thin slice of fragrant fresh ginger.

Mushroom Yakitori shines in its simplicity, a winning starter for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This appetizer is prepared by grilling skewered shiitake mushroom caps over an open flame, lightly brushing them with a slightly sweet sauce, delicately flavoring the mushrooms and creating a light caramelization of their exterior. Each bite is succulent, bursting with the naturally savory flavor of this “steak of mushrooms,” complemented by both the grilling sauce and the generous seasoning of cracked black pepper.

Kinya Milk Tea, like all boba at Kinya, is made with high-quality loose leaf tea. This particular recipe is made with a deeply fragrant

black tea lightly sweetened with sugar, mixed with milk and poured over soft, bouncy tapioca pearls. For a beverage that can often be cloyingly sweet, this particular milk tea allows the flavor of the black tea to pervade with just enough milk and sugar to balance out its delicate, earthy bitterness. This is a wonderful choice for true tea enthusiasts.

Very pretty to gaze at, super soft and chewy in the center, Pork Bao Buns (served two per order and very shareable) deliver fusion-happy bites with unmatched texture. Kinya Ramen’s version of the slider, these bao buns are comprised of perfectly pillowy steamed rice buns filled with rich, thinly sliced roast pork belly, a crunchy slice of juicy cucumber, sweet hoisin sauce and creamy Japanese-style mayonnaise. Your taste buds will want for nothing.

Reservations are encouraged. The stunning interior has varied seating, including cool, private booths.

Pork Bao Buns

Taiyaki Dessert

Kinya Milk Tea

Shrimp Tempura

Financial Planners

Money surveyed more than 1,000 financial planners to arrive at the 80 best, who all earned high marks for qualifications, services, trust and customer service.

Beth

Gallen Mastromarino, CFP ® , President of Van Reed Wealth Management and Financial Planning Advisors, is honored to be counted among them.

PHOTO

With Merrill, the bull always has your back.

We’re bullish on your future.

When we work together, you get personalized guidance, insights and financial planning — all designed to connect your life with your finances and to help make the path toward your goals even clearer.

Let’s have a conversation.

Maggs & Associates

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

985 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 200

Wyomissing, PA 19610

610.320.5462

advisor.ml.com/sites/pa/reading-pa/maggs