LCM | January 2023 | The Celebration Issue

A Dazzling Winter Wedding

UNITES HAILEY HILDENBRAND AND L.J. BENET

Readers submit photos of life's special moments.

Perry J. Argires, MD, FAANS, FACS

Neurosurgeon Specializing in Cervical Disc Replacement and Spine Care

Voted as the Best Surgeon in Lancaster County

LNP Readers’ Choice Favorite Neurosurgeon

Louis A. Marotti, MD, PhD, FAANS, FACS Neurosurgeon Specializing in Spine Care

Voted as the Best Surgeon in Lancaster County LNP Readers’ Choice Favorite Neurosurgeon

Steven M. Falowski, MD, FAANS, FACS Neurosurgeon Specializing in Spinal Cord Stimulators LNP Readers’ Choice Favorite Neurosurgeon

Jack Smith, MD Pain Medicine

Jarod B. John, MD Neurologist With a focus on elderly care, migraines and MS LNP Readers’ Choice Favorite Neurologist

Aiden Soroko, DPT Physical Therapist Clinic Manager

PUBLISHER Jocelyn Engle

EDITOR

Suzanne Starling-Long Sue@lancastercountymag.com

ART DIRECTOR Ashley Kendrick Kennedy Ashley@lancastercountymag.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Kaylee Rex Kaylee@lancastercountymag.com

MARKETING DIRECTOR Rachel Stebbins Rstebbins@engleonline.com REGULAR

ADVERTISING INFORMATION 717-492-2525 SALES MANAGER Greg March Gmarch@engleonline.com

Karen Stoltzfus Karen@lancastercountymag.com Tracy Allison Tracy@lancastercountymag.com

ON THE COVER: Danielle J. Norton captured first-look photos of Hailey Hildenbrand and L.J. Benet along the banks of the Conestoga River late on a Saturday afternoon in December 2021. Riverdale Manor in Lancaster was the site of their wedding and reception.

24. A Dazzling Winter Wedding

Event-Full

Wedding & Entertaining Essentials

Details make parties, showers, weddings and other celebrations memorable. Lancaster’s party professionals are ready to make yours unforgettable.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS

BY JORDAN BUSH

An apple pie baked by Deb Martin Berkoski. Brimming with apples (and not filling), this pie was baked perfectly. The sliced apples are soft with a fine tooth. Sweet notes of cinnamon and brandy define the flaky, buttery crust. The caramel isn’t overpowering or super sweet, but is chewy.

After observing the judging of baked and canned goods at the Solanco and Ephrata fairs a few years ago, I wanted to follow the process to the state level – chiefly, the apple pie contest, whose entrants are winners of blue ribbons at local fairs. In Harrisburg, the best of the best throw down their heralded apple pie recipes and engage in a competition that’s as delicious as it sounds.

Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest

The Annual Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest is a 34-year-long staple of the Pennsylvania Farm Show, which is held every January at the Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg. To qualify for the Pennsylvania Farm Show, amateur bakers of Pennsylvania residency must win first-place honors in the Blue Ribbon Apple Pie category of local fairs.

Pies must be baked from scratch in toto: “All ingredients and decorations must be edible,” and “at least 60% apples in the filling.” Winning at multiple fairs doesn’t give you a leg up on the competition: each entrant can enter only one pie. Recipes must be supplied for the pie and pie crust, listing preparation instructions with all ingredients, including quantities.

Judging at both the local and state level is based on a 100-point scale distributed across five criteria. They include flavor (30 points); filling, with attention paid to consistency, doneness, moistness and flavor (25 points); crust, based on color, flavor, texture and doneness (20 points); overall appearance (15 points); and creativity (10 points). The top three places are awarded $500, $250 and $100 prizes respectively, with the top five places receiving rosette ribbons.

The Martin Dynasty

Through exploring the baking skills that are needed to compete at the state level, two names repeatedly surfaced: Debra Martin Berkoski and

her mother, Dorothy M. Martin, both of Conestoga. Together, the pair have won the Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest in Harrisburg four times, while earning countless ribbons in categories ranging from shoofly pie to canned goods. (Their talents also extend to floral arrangements and wreath-making.)

“We don’t compete with each other,” says Deb. “We compete together.” Dorothy’s expertise centers on having an understanding of the fundamentals of baking. On the other hand, Deb likes to push boundaries. “Every fair has a Deb rule,” she explains.

Deb won the Blue Ribbon Apple Pie contest first in 2001, then again in 2010. Dorothy won the Blue Ribbon in 2005, and again in 2014, a year in which Deb placed third in baking with a different variety of apples. Their baking success extends beyond apple pies. For example, Deb won best shoofly pie five years in a row.

Ahead of the 2023 Pennsylvania Farm Show, Deb entered an apple pie at the 2022 Denver Fair and came away

with the blue ribbon. “So I am off to the 2023 Farm Show,” she noted, relieved that she earned the requisite blue ribbon early in the season and didn’t have to undergo the stress of chasing after the award as fair season waned.

WHILE THE COMPETITION

IS HOT on the state level, Deb is quick to underscore the fact that it definitely has a friendly side, which has fostered a sense of community among Pennsylvania’s bakers. “If I am beaten fairly, I will cheer you on,” says Deb.

Cherry Hill Orchards

When I first reached out to Deb with the premise of following her Blue Ribbon Apple Pie journey to the Pennsylvania Farm Show, she insisted we begin at Cherry Hill Orchards. Deb arrived ahead of me on a day in November 2021, in order to talk with the new owners and caretakers of Cherry Hill Orchards, brothers Corey and Craig McCleaf. Corey had taken ownership from Tom Haas a year and a half prior, and Deb had already connected on a personal level with the family. It was a continuation of the life-long relationship she had nurtured with this orchard and the folks who dedicate themselves to growing, selling and enjoying apples. It’s not a stretch to say she’s connected to the “core” of her ingredients.

FOLKS ARE OFTEN EAGER to learn where their food comes from and the next level of that understanding is developing a bit of a relationship with growers. Deb’s baking skillset is complemented by her investment in learning about producers and their harvest.

A tasty apple begins with the soil quality, paired with growing conditions that offer the right amount of temperatures, rainfall and crucially, periods of dry weather to sweeten the fruit. As Cherry Hill is located near the Susquehanna and Conestoga rivers, the climate suits the orchard well.

Tapping into the knowledge of Tom Haas and now the McCleaf brothers accounts for Deb’s first step to creating an award-winning pie. It starts with an understanding of seasonal quality – when it comes to being the best in the state, those ingredients need to be delicious.

Clockwise from top:

Deb with Cherry Hill Orchards owner, Corey McCleaf (left), and his brother, Craig McCleaf. Corey took ownership of the orchards in the spring of 2020. Deb hand-selects Northern Spy apples at Cherry Hill Orchards. Northern Spy is a top variety for baking apple pies.

A rosette Deb created using an apple.

Growers who know what you are after from a taste and texture perspective can quickly make recommendations. In Deb’s case, they understand she’s looking for choice apples with the right moisture content, flavor and ripeness – not only during the fall fair season but ahead of the state competition in early January. Sourcing apples from the same trees and bins as everyone else, Deb selected Northern Spy apples for her next pie.

“All the apples we bake with for competition have come from Cherry Hill,” says Deb. “They have grown the apples for four state-winning apple pies. No other orchard can [make that claim],” she continues. “The orchard is about five miles from my home. The new owners grew up in Adams County,” she says of prime apple country in Pennsylvania. “They have been very good to work with and are open to new ideas.”

The Secret Martin Family Ingredient

While there are “secrets” to her process, Deb willingly shares the inspiration behind her apple pie recipe: a signed cookbook inscribed to her from another legend in the local food network, the renowned restaurateur and cookbook author, Betty Groff, who was at the vanguard of promoting regional cuisine and helped to put Pennsylvania Dutch cooking on the culinary map 60 years ago.

More recently, Deb has completed the Pennsylvania Fair judging course, which qualifies her to judge competitions. Wisely, she gained an understanding of what criteria judges are looking for in competitions.

For hopeful bakers, she offers a few crumbs of wisdom: wait until the pie cools to slice it (as long as

A layer of melted caramel – from Evans Candy –mingles with apple slices.

Woven lattice delicately adorns the apple pie. Deb at work in her mother’s kitchen.

three hours). If entering a pie into a competition, never take a hot pie, which can become soggy from the steam. The third tenet is to drive carefully!

$600 Pies - Yes, Pies

Due to her time investment, Deb refrains from baking pies by request. She did make an exception for the 60th Anniversary Gala of the Long’s Park Amphitheater Foundation in September. Deb, who is a supervisor at the park, donated an apple pie to the fundraising auction. With bated breath, she watched as bidding ensued, finally stopping at a whopping $600.

A master of showmanship, Deb then produced a second pie from

Clockwise from top left:

Deb consults Betty Groff’s recipe, “Apple Pie With Caramel Crumb Topping” from Up Home Down Home Cookbook, to create the crumble for her pie.

behind the podium. She asked the second-highest bidder if she’d match the winning bid. The bidder did so without pause and Deb instantly doubled the total donations to $1,200. “The world record for an apple pie selling at auction is about $3,500,” says Deb, with a smile.

Dorothy’s Kitchen

Deb and I reconnected a year later. On an auspicious November morning, we regrouped at the Martin homestead, a preserved former dairy farm in Conestoga. Deb chose to bake her apple pie in her mother’s kitchen. None outside the Martin family are typically present for such an eventful occasion that is shrouded in baking secrets, the demands of excellence and a classic family tradition. On this morning, both Dorothy’s absence and presence could be felt. Having taken a fall over the summer, the need for round-the-clock care prompted a move to a nursing and rehab facility.

Dorothy epitomized farm life. She and her husband, Melvin H. Martin, assumed ownership of the farm more than 70 years ago. Determined to keep the farm in the family, she enrolled it in an agricultural preserve program. During the ’80s and ’90s, she operated stands at Southern, Central and West End markets, selling eggs, baked goods and vegetables. She entered her first fair competition (West Lampeter) in 1950, winning blue ribbons for her chow chow, sugar cookies and red zinnias. She was a life-long supporter of the 4-H program, always providing its benefit auction with a basket of her homemade jams and jellies.

Together, Dorothy and Deb brought home thousands of ribbons over the years, which serve as testament to the connection they forged through baking and other creative pursuits for the entirety of their shared lives. Their dynamic helped to shape one another and each other’s recipes, pushing themselves to new levels. That closeness is undoubtedly the secret ingredient in Deb’s baking, and on this November morning, it came in the form of baking in Dorothy’s kitchen.

Sadly, two weeks later, on Thanksgiving evening, Deb and Dorothy shared a final moment of togetherness. Deb held her mother’s hand as she passed away, days shy of her 95th birthday. Deb viewed her loss in baking terms, sharing with her Facebook friends that “I have a strong feeling God was short a Christmas cookie baker … and now he has a blueribbon winner.”

The Pennsylvania Farm Show will be held January 7-14. For details, visit farmshow.pa.gov.

For information about Cherry Hill Orchards, visit cherryhillorchards.com.

Jordan Bush is a commercial photographer. His work has allowed him to discover and document cultures and food across five continents. A graduate of Garden Spot High School and Millersville University, Jordan and his fiancée, Jessica, reside and cook together in Ephrata.

Additional caramel is drizzled on top of the pie.

Pie dough baked in the form of leaves and flowers will decorate the top of this year’s caramel apple pie recipe.

The floor of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in 2019.

Worth

With the pandemic in our rear-view mirrors, we’ve been celebrating life’s special moments in grand ways. We invited readers to share their milestones and received photos from birthday and anniversary parties, weddings, showers, nonprofit events, awards honorees, business owners and more.

BY SUE LONG

Celebrating!

Colleen and Kevin McKain

The McKains celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with friends and family at The Vineyard & Brewery at Hershey on July 30. Their story began with a blind date that was arranged by friends. “I never was on a boat or water-skied,” Colleen recalls of their introduction. “I did both that day and he still called me!” They were married two years later on June 19, 1982, at the Evangelical Free Church of Hershey. The McKains live in Elizabethtown – “The same home when we got married,” notes Colleen. They are the parents of Wade, who lives in Maryland with his wife, Tina, and their son, Carter, and Kylie, who lives in Pittsburgh with her significant other, Matthew Compton, and the McKain’s first-born grandson, Wesley. Vineyardathershey.com.

Lancaster Society of Human Resource Management

At the society’s membership kickoff – HR Rocks – on November 2, the featured speaker was Tracy Cutler of the Lancaster County Community Foundation, who presented a program on 2022’s ExtraGive, which was held November 18 and raised more than $10 million for community organizations. Held at Decades, HR Rocks featured fun and games and most importantly, “raised” 67 pounds of Thanksgiving donations for the Lancaster County Food Hub. For membership information, email info@lancastershrm.org. Decadeslancaster.com.

Lionel Adriano

Lionel celebrated being part of the cast of Servant, a supernatural horror-thriller series from Tony Basgallop and M. Night Shyamalan that streams on Apple TV. (Season 4 premieres January 13.) The storyline follows a Philadelphia couple who are in mourning after a tragedy that ultimately creates a rift in their marriage and opens the door for a mysterious force to enter their lives. Lionel is excited that the opportunity now qualifies him to become a member of the Screen Actors Guild.

Lionel is also celebrating the fact that his business – Revolve Atelier – survived the pandemic and is thriving. Located in Neffsville, the hair and makeup salon/ barbershop opened its doors in 2019. “It’s been a challenging few years,” he admits. “But we survived the shutdowns and restrictions. This year [2022], we became completely debt-free!” Find them on Facebook or Instagram @revolve.atelier.

Lorah’s Handmade Chocolates

Maria Lorah Harvey took a big step last year by opening a retail store at Bricker Village on March 31. Lorah’s is a family enterprise that was founded by Ruth Lorah in 1970. Ruth learned the art of making chocolates from her aunt and uncle, George and Effie Miller, who resided in Denver. Maria then assumed the role of family chocolatier, buying the business in 2009 and naming it Lorah’s Handmade Chocolates. The emphasis on handmade – using the freshest ingredients – remains a hallmark of the business. The made-from-scratch menu features bark, caramel, cream, ganache, truffle, cordial/shot, dried fruit and nut varieties. The success of the shop has already prompted an expansion –it doubled in size last month and includes an area dedicated to The Market at Lorah’s, where you will find treats from other local artisans, bakers and businesses. Lorahschocolates.com.

Abigail Savicky and Chad Zeamer

Abigail and Chad, who were wed on November 1, held their reception at The Booking House in Manheim. According to Sarah Klausmair, who is a friend of the couple’s, “It was a beautiful wedding and wonderful way to celebrate their love. Not only were they surrounded by friends and family, but Chad surprised Abby with a new addition to the family – a golden retriever puppy they named Booker in honor of their wedding venue.”

Thebookinghousemanheim.com.

Aimee Weaver’s White Gables Garden House is perfect for events such as showers, birthday/ anniversary parties and even corporate functions. It can comfortably seat 40 guests and is fully furnished. Kelsey loves it for the natural light and garden views.

Oh, baby!

What does a baby shower look like from the viewpoint of a wedding and branding photographer – and event planner at heart – who has an obsession with details and all things elegant and romantic? As you can see, Kelsey Strothers’ wish list for how her own baby shower would look, perfectly echoed her favorite things – including the color blue – and elicited plenty of oohs and aahs from guests.

When family and friends approached Kelsey with the idea of planning a baby shower for her, Kelsey wanted to play an active role in designing the look of the event. Because she specializes in wedding and branding photography (with an emphasis on natural lighting), Kelsey was acquainted with vendors who could bring her vision to reality.

At the top of the to-do list was finding a venue and Kelsey immediately knew that White Gables Garden House, located in Cochranville and owned by Aimee Weaver, would be perfect, due to the fact that it’s “airy, light-filled and dreamy.”

As Kelsey and her husband, Zach, would be welcoming a son, the color scheme had to include blue. For this element, she turned to Caroline’s Rentals, which supplied the vintage-inspired goblets, as well as complementary gold candlesticks and chargers. Paper products and linens added yet another touch of blue to the décor. The detail-oriented Kelsey even made sure to wear a blue dress for the occasion!

The touch of blue also made its way onto the menu. Kim’s Bakery in Mohnton designed the delicious cupcakes that were iced with blue frosting. The bakery also replicated a baby-boy-themed sugar

Top to bottom:

A stylized chalkboard announces the day’s big event –Kelsey’s baby shower!

cookie Kelsey had seen online that would serve as party favors. The menu also featured a bountiful charcuterie board created by Cypress and Thyme Events in Honey Brook.

WITH HER WORK DONE, Kelsey was ready to sit back and visit with family and friends, open gifts and enjoy being the guest of honor. But who would take the all-important pictures? “Kelsey handed the camera over to me and told me to take pictures,” says Olivia Rae Craft, one of Kelsey’s BFFs. Kelsey then took over post-production duties and posted the pictures to social media before baby Lane’s arrival on November 15.

CREDITS

• Kelsey Renee Photography: kelseyreneephotography.com; event photos by Olivia Rae Craft

• White Gables Garden House: aimeeweaverdesigns.com

• Kim’s Bakery: alleghenyvalleyfarms.com

• Caroline’s Rentals: carolinesrentals.com

Clockwise from top left:

The menu featured a bountiful charcuterie board.

Blue glassware lent a vintage look to the tables.

Kelsey with her appointed photographer and BFF, Olivia Rae Craft.

Kelsey with her mother, Rosene Ressler, and sister, Ashley.

The main event: opening gifts!

The blue theme hit a sweet note via cupcakes.

The custom-designed cookies served as party favors.

Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy Awards

It was meant to be! Joe Sanks, who is celebrating 40 years as a photojournalist and chief drone pilot (FAA-certified) with WGAL, attended the 40th Annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy Awards, which was held at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel on October 1. Joe is pictured at the event with morning news anchor and Emmy winner, Katelyn Smith. WGAL took home three Emmys: Crime – News (Single Report), An Alternative Use of Force, Susan Shapiro, reporter; Historical/ Cultural – News (Single Report), Uncovered History on Film, Katelyn Smith, reporter; and Promotion – News Program/PSA – Campaign, Olympic Memories, Gavin Liddick (producer), Ryan Peiffer (motion graphics), Mark Hernandez (producer) and Todd Bailey (producer). Wgal.com.

Jillian Legenstein and Ricky Cruz

Jillian and Ricky’s wedding, which was held at Riverdale Manor on September 10, celebrated a lifelong relationship that only promises to grow in love and devotion. The two met in elementary school and were instant friends. It grew more serious when they began dating in high school. As for the proposal, Covid was the culprit in causing Ricky to make a pivot. “He was planning a big proposal in front of both of our immediate families, but we were in the middle of Covid and we couldn’t all get together,” Jillian explains. Instead, he proposed at their home on July 27, 2020. “It was just us and our dog, Chandler,” Jillian recalls. “He didn’t want to wait any longer!” she adds of his proposal. Nonetheless, family got to celebrate the momentous occasion with them via FaceTime.

Jillian says the “best part of the wedding was our ceremony – the love we felt from each other and our family and friends who were there to celebrate with us, was truly special.” Riverdalemanor.com.

Dave Kahling

Celebrating a milestone birthday – in Dave’s case, the big 5-0 – called for a celebration, so his girlfriend, Katie Smith, swung into action and planned a surprise birthday party at Per Diem, which is located in the Hotel Rock Lititz. “It’s two miles from our house and has become a favorite of ours,” she says of her choice of venue. “We like it for its great food, service and ambiance.”

The party, which was held April 10, was a complete surprise and served as a family reunion of sorts, since Dave had not seen his mother, cousins or aunt in about a year. In the photo, Dave is pictured with (left to right) his aunt, Peg Dengler, and his cousins, Kim Dengler and Sharon Dengler Zimmerman. “It was a wonderful night –we truly enjoyed ourselves – after all the stress and worry of Covid restrictions,” Katie reminisces. “His friends covered his car in posters in the parking lot while we were eating dessert.”

As for turning 50, Katie reports that “Dave claims he is still 25, so I would say he isn’t wild about admitting he is 50.” Perdiemlititz.com

Rainbow’s End Youth Services (REYS)

Located in Mount Joy, REYS is a Christian youth center that celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022. According to executive director, Cristina Paden, REYS has “faithfully reached local youth in Christian love and has provided spiritual direction, social support and academic assistance to hundreds of at-risk youth.” The milestone anniversary was celebrated on March 26 at Landis Hall at The Junction Center. Reys.org.

Rita Stebbins and Nick Biewen

You just never know when Cupid is going to work his magic! Lancaster native, Rita Stebbins, is a student at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Nick, who is a native of Albuquerque and attends a community college in the area, was friends with students who lived across the hall from Rita and often visited them. Through her dorm neighbors, Rita got to know Nick and the rest, as they say, is history. The two eloped (crazy kids) on June 25 and were married in the desert by a “minister with a broken arm.” Witnesses included one of Rita’s sorority sisters and the minister’s wife.

Savannah Graybill and Chris Strup

So, how does a girl from Denver (PA) meet a guy from Defiance, Ohio? Skeleton, the winter sport that involves “sledding” down a twisting, turning course of ice at breakneck speed, provided the introductions, as both were members of the the U.S. National Skeleton Team. Now retired, the two, who got to travel the world as members of Team USA, are pursuing new career paths and have decided to put down roots in Lancaster City. They made the plunge and became first-time homeowners, buying a house in the city, with help from realtor Matt Koch of Keller Williams Elite. Once the keys were theirs, they celebrated with a commemorative photo. “It ain’t official until it’s on the ’gram,” Savannah noted on her Instagram post in late September.

Lancasterbeardedrealtor.com.

Jocelyn Engle

Turning 40 was a piece of cake for Jocelyn, thanks to the party her sister/ BFF, Janelle Benner, and her family held in her honor at their Lititz home on August 26. Surrounded by family and friends, Jocelyn felt loved and supported on her special day. Her next big hurdle: she qualified to run in the Boston Marathon this spring.

Avery Williamson

Little Avery turned 3 on July 16 and her parents, Angela and Maurice Williamson, decided a party was in order. The festivities, which were held at the Williamsons’ home, included a guest list composed of family and close friends. Angela decided to amp up the menu and secured the services of the Little Cotton Cart and Pizza Tent. “I discovered Little Cotton Cart on Instagram,” Angela says of the service that touts its mission as “spreading a big pouf of joy” through cotton candy (six flavors served in classic paper cones, bags or fancy glasses). “It was wonderful, everyone enjoyed it,” Angela notes. As for Pizza Tent, the mobile, pop-up pizzeria (think woodfired pizza oven on wheels) specializes in New York-style pizza. Catering small events such as Avery’s birthday party is Pizza Tent’s forte. Littlecottoncart.com and pizzatent.net.

Anchor Lancaster

Founded in the 1980s, Anchor Lancaster’s first mission was to provide unsheltered people with a welcoming and safe environment by offering them a warm cup of coffee each weekday morning. Originally based at St. James Episcopal Church, the program grew to offer guests breakfast fare. In 2017, the program transitioned to a new home, First United Methodist Church in Lancaster, and within a year became a nonprofit organization that is now served by more than 150 volunteers. Services expanded to offering guests the use of shower facilities. As of late November, the tally for showers had reached 4,000. Bathing supplies are always accepted and appreciated.

As you can imagine, Covid challenged Anchor Lancaster in numerous ways. Breakfast pivoted to take-out and fundraising events were curtailed. Executive Director Patty Eastep reports that Anchor Lancaster got back on track in 2022, with indoor seating returning for its breakfast service and its fundraising gala returning to the calendar on October 7. The gala, which was held at Bent Creek Country Club, was a huge success thanks to guests going above and beyond to support the silent and live auctions. Anchorlancaster.org.

Tangles Salon

In celebrating Tangles’ 20th anniversary in 2022, owner Kristin Green gathered her staff for a commemorative photo. Kristin, who has been a stylist for 30-plus years, opened her salon in Lancaster City in 2002. Six years later, she and her husband, Bill, bought a property on Marietta Avenue in Rohrerstown that dates to the early 1900s. They devoted their time and talents to remodeling the one-time residence in order to transform it into an upscale salon. Twenty years later, Tangles is still going strong, having expanded its staff and its menu of services. Tangleslancaster.com.

YWCA Lancaster, Women of Achievement Awards

Each year, YWCA Lancaster honors women in the community who make a difference through helping to eliminate racism and gender inequality. The awards luncheon was held October 20 at the DoubleTree Lancaster. Those honored included (left to right): Dr. Sharee Livingston, DO FACOG, a physician at Patients R Waiting/UPMC; Salina Almanzar-Oree, who is the program coordinator at the Center for Creative Exploration at Pennsylvania College of Art & Design; Barbara Jean Ellis Wilson, the executive director of the Lancaster City Housing Authority; Kendra Wolfe, the founder and executive guide at Unique Lancaster Experiences; and Sophie Yost (Cheryl Gahring Young Person of Achievement), who as a student at Manheim Township High School was the founder of the Coalition for Social Justice, a founder/member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Board and was a national field director for the MyVote Project. She is a freshman at Duke University. Ywcalancaster.org.

SophieYost

Entertaining Entertaining Essentials

From milestone birthdays and anniversaries to new beginnings such as weddings and baby showers, these local businesses are ready to help you host a stress-free, unforgettable event, no matter the occasion.

COMPILED BY KAYLEE REX

ACHENBACH’S PASTRIES, INC. has been doing business since 1954 “with our made-from-scratch original recipes,” shares the company’s executive vice president, Sharon Redcay. “What sets us apart from most bakeries is the ‘no preservatives’ in our products.” Achenbach’s most popular item would be their Long Johns. “After all, we are trademarked ‘The Home of the Long John.’ We also make Long John all-occasion cakes and Long John wedding cakes by special order only,” Sharon adds. “Trending wedding cakes are the naked cake and the textured icing with a spiral look.”

Special Advertising Section

STONE GABLES ESTATE is home to Ironstone Ranch, The Star Barn Village and St. Michael’s Vineyard. The venue provides over 275 acres of scenic vistas and endless options for your special day. The iconic Star Barn Village features Gothic Revival-style restored barns, dating back to the 1800s. Ironstone Ranch is a horse farm, featuring scenic pastures, woodland, firepits and a farmhouse. St. Michael’s Vineyard is a favorite for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours, featuring elegant gazebos, towering stone pillars and a solarium. All of Stone Gables Estate’s net profits benefit at-risk children through the nonprofit organization, Brittany’s Hope.

Located on North Duke Street in Downtown Lancaster, GLAMOUR ROOM is the premier salon for bridal and special occasion hairstyling, skincare, esthetic services and makeup. Their stylists can give you a quick touch-up, a glamorous blowout or an updated look with the latest beauty trends, including balayage hair coloring, HaloCouture extensions or a lash lift.

Owner Bobbi Nicole Bentzel has been making people feel their best since 2004. “After going to school, taking extensive classes and working in Los Angeles, New York City and Philadelphia, I wanted to bring what I learned from the big cities back home,” she says.

The COLUMBIA MARKET HOUSE is a treasure located in the heart of this historic river town. The plans for this structure originated in 1868 with Robert Crane. Opened on September 17, 1869, the market has served as an anchor for this community. While visiting, take a tour of the well-preserved dungeons from 1834, including a solitary confinement cell. In 2019, after being closed for a few years, Columbia, in partnership with the state, once again invested in this building and on May 29, 2021, the Market House reopened with a restaurant, stand spaces and room for special events.

With a breathtaking view of the Susquehanna River, locally sourced food and dedicated staff, JOHN WRIGHT RESTAURANT is an all-in-one venue for your special occasion. As a full-service venue, they can accommodate bridal and baby showers, rehearsal dinners, corporate parties, weddings and any other reason to celebrate. Large events can be held in the River Room, while the venue can accommodate smaller celebrations in their main dining room, outdoor dining room or on their seasonal pizza patio. John Wright Restaurant is proud to offer a wide variety of options to make your special event memorable and hassle-free.

PRECISE BUILDINGS is based in Lancaster County, central to an area rich in heritage and timeless estates. While Precise is known for providing distinctive equestrian structures, they are also an accomplished venue builder. With over 25 years of success in design

and construction, their highly skilled craftsmen pay attention to all the details to make your finished project unique to you and your property. If you are considering building or renovating an existing structure to be a venue, view their work by visiting their website or give their design team a call today at 717768-3200. Precise Buildings will build your dreams and preserve your legacy.

SIMPLY EVENTS, INC. has been serving Central Pennsylvania and beyond for 13 years! “We have the largest team in Lancaster County,” says Deb Erb, owner and president. “I am proud of the way our team cares for each client we work with.” The team serves clients in both planning and management of weddings, corporate and social gatherings and also manages event/event space rentals on the Rock Lititz campus in Lititz. “We look forward to continued growth and service in the year ahead!” says Erb.

Hailey Hildenbrand and L.J. Benet A DAZZLING WINTER WEDDING

The Conestoga River, which flows past Riverdale Manor, provided the backdrop for Hailey and L.J.’s first-look photos. The property features several outdoor natural areas/gardens for ceremonies, an all-seasons pavilion, a 19th-century farmhouse with a bridal suite and groom’s room, a garden terrace (with a two-sided fireplace) and a ballroom with a soaring ceiling and a plethora of windows and French doors. Riverdale Manor is also the home of Thyme & Seasons Catering.

Hailey Hildenbrand returned home to Lancaster County for her wedding to L.J. Benet, who she happened to meet at a church service in California. Held just ahead of the Christmas holidays, the wedding echoed the warmth and cheer of the season and reflected the love that enveloped the venue that evening.

BY JILL BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE J. NORTON

The camera’s clicks and flashes that come with a wedding day can unnerve some brides, but not Hailey Hildenbrand. She was ready to pose for the camera. As a professional model who has taken part in countless photo shoots for major brands like Skechers, L’Oréal and Corvette, the cover girl from Strasburg made friends with the camera years ago. Discovered by a model talent scout while playing volleyball for her Lampeter-Strasburg High School team, Hailey has been in front of the camera since she was 17.

When her career lured Hailey to Miami and then to Los Angeles for more opportunities, she met the one: L.J. Benet. Growing up as a child actor in the San Fernando Valley of California, the professional musician met his bride-tobe in 2018, when Hailey, who was then based in Miami, was visiting California for a modeling assignment. Hailey happened to attend a church service where L.J. is an active congregant, using his musical talents to praise and serve. They never stopped seeing each other and their engagement was made official while celebrating Christmas 2020 in Lancaster County with Hailey’s family.

One year later, on a crisp and clear December night, Hailey and L.J. stood before 100 family and friends at Riverdale Manor, a charming event venue situated along the Conestoga River in Lancaster. Their choice of venue was one of many serendipitous pieces of the weddingplanning puzzle that fell into place. “It landed in our laps,” says Hailey. “We saw

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Two pairs of shoes were needed, one for walking down the aisle and the other for dancing the night away.

Mid-reception, Hailey would step out of her Badgley Mischka stilettos and into sparkling high-top sneakers.

Jessie Hildenbrand helps her daughter into the dress that Hailey tracked down in Australia.

The all-seasons pavilion was the scene of Hailey and L.J.’s ceremony.

Ron Hildenbrand escorts Hailey down the aisle.

Simple bouquets of white roses stood out against the black gowns Hailey’s attendants wore.

The Hildenbrand and Benet families pose for a celebratory photo.

Hailey and L.J. wrote their own vows for the ceremony that was presided over by Corey Martin, who grew up in Washington Boro, was an associate pastor at Threshold Church in Lancaster, and now lives in Southern California.

Riverdale Manor online and then visited in person; we loved the location for both the ceremony and the reception.”  Hailey’s mother, Jessie, says December was important as a wedding date, as it would allow friends and family to attend, including those driven by sports schedules. “The matron of honor’s husband – a cousin – is a professional baseball player, and Hailey’s brother, Hunter, is very involved in Lampeter-Strasburg’s sports, including football playoffs. We’re all local,” notes Jessie, “except Hailey.”  Strasburg was well-represented at the wedding, but so was California. All of L.J.’s groomsmen were from the Los Angeles church he attends. Officiating was Corey Martin of Orange County. Hmmm, Martin – a common Lancaster County name, you say? It’s not a coincidence – Corey is originally from Washington Boro and was an associate pastor at Threshold Church in Lancaster, before setting out for California. He and his family hosted Hailey during her first months of getting settled in California.

The ceremony began as a string quartet’s harmonies wafted to the open rafter beams that were wrapped in tiny lights. Crystal chandeliers added a note of elegance to the setting. Floating candles in glass cylinder vases dotted the greenery-lined aisle as mother-of-the-bride, Jessie, made her entrance in a charcoal sequined sheath.

“Take a deep breath, you’re in the moment,” Hailey thought as she and her father, Ron, began that memorable walk down the aisle. Hailey wore a backless gown that had a story all its own.

While shopping in Orange County, Hailey found the perfect minimallook dress, but unfortunately it was not her size. After three unsuccessful attempts to order it, she realized the gown stood little chance of making it to the wedding in time. Still, she made one last attempt and went online to stillwhite.com and discovered the dress – in her measurements – was available in Australia. Hailey had her dress!

Before making their vows, Corey

asked the couple to turn and face their guests – a “wow” realization for the couple, “seeing everyone who cares about us and what we are doing with our lives,” Hailey recalls. “This is a holy moment,” the officiant reminded everyone, “and what a privilege.”

Hailey and L.J. composed their own emotion-filled vows, which included the promise, “l will choose you every single day.”

The reception was just a few steps away inside the ballroom, where a live Christmas tree was decorated with wedding favors for the guests. L.J.’s talent as a musician and songwriter took the spotlight as Hailey entered the room to his original song written for her, That Girl

In Lancaster County fashion, guests were lavished with an abundant buffet of a raw bar of oysters, shrimp and clams, corn-on-the-cob, farm-to-table veggies, carving and pasta stations and, of course, cake and other confections.

Following toasts (the best man’s in

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The white walls of the ballroom lent themselves to the wedding’s black-and-white color scheme that extended to white linens and florals and black Chiavari chairs for the reception.

Lounge areas were created for guests to relax and socialize.

Hailey and L.J. make their way into the 19th-century farmhouse that features a bridal suite and groom’s room.

A vintage popcorn machine provided late-evening snacks.

A Christmas tree was hung with commemorative ornaments that served as wedding favors.

L.J.’s love of music was conveyed through a unique guestbook that saw guests offer their best wishes on an LP record album.

DJ Mast got the party started with high-energy dance music.

the form of a rap song) and dancing, guests re-energized with a late-night, salty-sweet treat from a vintage popcorn machine.

After dancing the night away, Hailey and L.J. exited under a canopy of guests waving sparklers and were whisked off to a nearby Airbnb in Hunter’s Jeep – a chilly ride, but who cares – they’re in love!

HOW DID YOU DO THAT?

Hailey and L.J.’s wedding included elements that are in vogue and in style.

That’s So ’70s!

The black-and-white color scheme that was so popular in the ’70s has staged a comeback. Hailey’s attendants were dressed in long, black, off-theshoulder gowns and carried white flowers. L.J., who wore a black tuxedo, and his groomsmen, who were attired in black suits and white shirts, echoed the color scheme, which was also reflected in the invitation suite, menu cards and reception décor.

Floral Statement

Baby’s breath is having a moment and the ceremony and reception areas were awash in clouds of it. White roses, eucalyptus and ruscus also figured into the floral designs.

Two Dresses

A bride wearing two looks on her wedding day is still on trend. Midway through the reception, Hailey changed into a satiny halter-style gown (and sequined sneakers) that was reminiscent of old Hollywood glam … or perhaps the dress Meghan Markle wore to her wedding reception.

Engagement Photo Shoot

The two also celebrated their engagement with a photo shoot – with their photographer, Danielle J. Norton –at a place that is special to them, Joshua Tree National Park, which is east of L.A.

A favorite color scheme from the ’70s – black and white – is back in vogue for modern-day weddings.

Two trends stand out in this photo: clouds of baby’s breath and a more casual reception dress (and shoes).

Clockwise from top: Hailey and L.J. spent a fun and romantic day at Joshua Tree National Park in California, where they commemorated their engagement with a photo shoot.

Signature drinks are a favorite addition to reception menus, as they serve to convey a couple’s personalities and entertaining style.

Naked cakes remain a favorite weddingcake style for the younger generation due to their minimalistic design and versatility from a decorating perspective.

SPICY WIFE, SPICY LIFE

• Tajín Clásico Seasoning Rimmer

• 1.5 oz. tequila

• 1 oz. fresh lime juice

• .5 oz. orange juice

• .25 oz. agave/simple syrup

CALIFORNIA COWBOY

• 1.5 oz. bourbon

• 1 oz. fresh lemon juice

• .5 oz. maple syrup

• cinnamon stick garnish

Naked Cakes

The naked cake has become a favorite of younger generations who prefer a more minimalistic approach to wedding cake design. In the case of naked cakes, frosting just “kisses” the layers of the cake, allowing the color of the cake to be visible. The beauty of a naked cake is that it can deliver a chic, sophisticated and even rustic look to the festivities. They can be embellished with flowers, greenery, seashells … the choice is yours!

Lights, Camera, Action!

Couples are documenting their big days with more than photography. L.J., for example, wrote a song and created a video that conveyed his falling in love with Hailey. The two also starred in a short film that documented their wedding day – start to finish – that was created by Visual Rose Films. Both are embedded on our website at lancastercountymag.com.

Signature Drinks

Signature drinks are a whimsical addition to a celebration and Hailey and L.J.’s choices revealed their playful sides.

Nontraditional Guestbooks

WeddingTok reports that traditional guestbooks are old hat and couples are now asking guests to convey their best wishes via voicemail (recorded on a vintage rotary phone), on puzzle pieces and game boards and on holiday ornaments. Hailey and L.J. had guests sign a vinyl record album.

CREDITS

• Photographer:  Danielle J. Norton, daniellejnorton.com

• Venue:  Riverdale Manor, Lancaster, riverdalemanor.com

• Planner:  Monica, Riverdale Manor

• Dress:  Made with Love Bridal, found at stillwhite.com

• Florist:  Unique Designs by Sharon, Bird-inHand, uniquedesignsbysharon.com

• Caterer and Cake:  Thyme & Seasons, Lancaster, thymeseasons.com

• Music: Vivace Live String Quartet, Lancaster, vivacelive.com

• Dance Music:  DJ Mast, Lancaster, djmast.com

• Décor Rentals:  Treasured Events, Lancaster, treasured-events.com

• Videographer: Visual Rose Films, Philadelphia, visualrose.com

Wedding and Wedding and

Entertaining Entertaining Essentials

INSURANCEAGENCYINC

How does getting married affect one’s life insurance, auto insurance and other policies? The team at UNRUH INSURANCE AGENCY explains that “marriage presents another side of insurance that most newlyweds don’t think about. There are many present and future considerations that come with marriage, including purchasing or renting a home, planning a family and protecting what is important to you.”

Now is the perfect time to review coverage and consider combining auto policies; combining makes couples eligible for lower rates.

THE GILDED LILY , based in Columbia, is a multifaceted company dedicated to all things horticultural and decorative. Tim Arpin, who is a graduate of Chicago’s DuPage Horticultural School, launched The Gilded Lily in 1989 in order to provide residential and business clients with exceptional landscaping services, seasonal and special occasion décor, floral arrangements, vegetable/ herb gardening, container planting and maintenance and more. Using distinctive flowers, lush plants, topiaries, vibrant colors and accent lighting, The Gilded Lily creates atmospheres that take beauty beyond the basics. From simple, understated elegance to all-out glamour, The Gilded Lily can craft whatever environment you desire. Visit arpinsgildedlily.com for more information.

APromiseKept

CUSTOM CREATIVE

TRANSFORMATIONAL.

From understated elegance to all-out-glamour, The Gilded Lily creates unique environments that transform your special occasion to an unforgettable event.

Using distinctive flowers, lush plants, topiaries and accent lighting, we create an atmosphere that takes beauty beyond the basics.

We make party planning easy! Simply coordinate with us, show up and enjoy. Located just 1 block from the Marriott, we have two beautiful venue options available including our rooftop terrace for wedding rehearsal dinners, receptions, bridal showers, baptisms, birthday events, etc. An elevator for handicapped access is available! Book your event now for every reason and season!

ZBOYZ brings the party to you with their state-of-theart, limousine-styled mobile gaming theater on wheels! The luxury video-game trailer features five large-screen LED TVs, a premium immersive sound system, a high-tech LED lighting system and a huge gaming library for their collection of consoles. Up to 20 players can play inside and out (depending on the weather) at the same time.

ZboyZ is climate controlled for year-round fun and completely self-contained with a generator and hotspot. ZboyZ’s trailer is perfect for birthdays, corporate/team building events, school functions, sporting events, church events, summer camps, weddings, fundraisers and the list goes on.

YORGOS LANCASTER , located at 66 North Queen Street, offers casual pub fare and craft beer and creates authentic Greek-influenced dishes based on their family’s old-world recipes. Yorgos selects the freshest local ingredients and sources the highest-quality steak, seafood and wine from Lancaster County and beyond. Kefi, their award-winning Mediterranean Taverna is taking reservations. Yorgos serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night fare. They offer both dine-in and carry-out.

Yorgos also accommodates large parties and events. Two beautiful venue options are available, including a rooftop terrace for wedding rehearsal dinners, receptions, bridal showers, baptisms, birthday events and more!

Experience wedding bliss at the EDEN RESORT & SUITES , Lancaster and Central PA’s premier wedding reception and ceremony venue featuring six elegant ballrooms and an outdoor space. The Courtyard – a threestory atrium with a large skylighted ceiling, fountain and twinkle-string lights – offers a stunning setting, as do their other ballrooms. Eden Resort offers personalized menus featuring dishes from their award-winning executive chef. Their wedding team will help you plan your special day, including onsite coordination during your event. Overnight accommodations are also offered. Visit edenresort.com/weddings Eden Resort & Suites welcomes the opportunity to help you have the wedding of your dreams!

THE FIRESIDE TAVERN , located in Strasburg, is the perfect place to host your next event. The property is home to The Willows at Historic Strasburg, which features an elegant ballroom, a beautiful courtyard and space for up to 300 people. The Fireside Tavern also offers two private rooms for smaller events, such as rehearsal dinners or showers. Whether you are coming for dinner,

a wedding or a private event, you will no doubt be impressed by The Fireside Tavern’s delicious food, attentive service and beautiful views of the Lancaster County countryside.

KITCHENS BY EILEEN (KbE Design & Build) has over 25 years of superior, award-winning design and construction experience. Each renovation project is carefully handled by their expert designers who specialize in space planning and design. Their project management team handles your job all the way to completion, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.

KbE Process:

1. Schedule a consultation in their showroom.

2. Designer measures your space and designs floorplans for you to choose from.

3. Designer guides you through the selections process.

4. Project managers oversee your renovation from start to finish.

Kitchens by Eileen also offers an option for those who want the look and convenience of a custom closet

Inspired by the majestic tree that stands tall over the field behind our large ballroom, The Willows is an enchanted venue not to be missed. Tucked away in the rolling fields, you can host a cozy intimate party or a large celebration in our charmed space full of roaring fireplaces and lofty ceilings. It’s more than an event space—it’s a storied destination within a beautiful landscape. When you see the willow, you know you’ve made it.

Photo by Amber Martin

without paying a sky-high price. Their patented system, VICTORY CLOSETS , allows you to reconfigure your closet any time without tools, fasteners or support pins. Simply lift and move!

Visit Kitchens by Eileen and Victory Closets’ new showroom, located at 4224 Oregon Pike in Brownstown (next to Martin Appliance).

HARVEST SEASONAL GRILL believes that everyone should enjoy nutrient-dense, farm-fresh flavors. Every three months, they introduce an allnew, seasonally inspired menu created with honest ingredients from local farm partners.

Harvest also offers private dining space and off-site catering services. Perfect for birthday celebrations, holiday gatherings, corporate board meetings and wedding receptions, Harvest’s attentive service and farm-to-table menu will make your event spectacular, whatever the occasion.

Whether you are dining at one of their convenient locations or searching for the perfect caterer for your private event, Harvest Seasonal Grill looks forward to introducing every guest to “farm-to-table for everyone.”

THE BARN AT PARADISE STATION is a meticulously restored and technologically enhanced 1812 Pennsylvania bank barn. Located on the grounds of the iconic Red Caboose Motel, guests will experience weddings in a unique setting unlike any other while surrounded by thousands of acres of Lancaster County farmland.

The Barn at Paradise Station offers multiple options for indoor and outdoor ceremonies and reception sites, including a pond and bluestone patio. A 50-foot viewing tower, professional light and sound and a fully equipped catering kitchen will take your event to a whole new level.

Photo by The Jepsons

Photo by Kelsey Renee Photography

WHITE CHIMNEYS ESTATE stands in eastern Lancaster County as its oldest venue, boasting over 300 years of American history. The historic grounds and buildings host weddings and events of all sizes. With the addition of a 2,000-square-foot Bridal Suite and upgraded paved parking, their vision is to bring your event dreams to life. The climate-controlled tobacco barn offers tables, chairs and many on-site décor rentals. Formal gardens grow herbs for the ROAMING LIBATIONS MOBILE BAR , a bartending service that provides unique infusions and beverages for each guest. Roaming Libations offers custom services including the Champagne garden greeting and a visit from horses, donkeys or ponies carrying unique cocktails!

RETTEW’S CATERING is family-owned and operated by a husband-and-wife team whose industry experience spans more than 40 years. General manager and co-owner Jennifer Rettew Bushey states, “We take a full-service custom approach to ensure each event is exactly what our clients are looking for while offering exquisite cuisine and flawless service. Our favorite is when food can help to tell the story of who the couple is and what they are about.” Increased guest

counts, the return of interactive foods and stations, handcrafted signature cocktails and extended cocktail hours are some 2023 trends they are most looking forward to!

On Trend for 2023

Chic Handhelds: According to Pinterest, brides-to-be are focused on petite bouquets that feature lily of the valley, lilac, astilbe, lavender and other delicate blooms.

Last Dance: This new trend comes at the end of the reception when the dance floor is emptied, allowing the couple to have a private moment and reflect on their big day. In some instances, guests are ushered out of the venue ahead of the couple’s send-off so that their last dance can truly be a private ending to the day.

Houseplants are for Weddings: Houseplants are making the jump to weddings, as younger generations are incorporating them into the décor for their wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Pink! Wedding gowns that made their debut during 2023 Bridal Fashion Week featured color. Floral prints and pastels such as blue and pink were in vogue. One fashion writer declared, “Pink is the new white!”

Photo by Brittney Kreider Photography

Resolve to Get ORGANIZED!

BY SUE LONG | PHOTOS COURTESY OF VICTORY CLOSETS OF SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY AND K b E

Each year at this time, we resolve to make positive changes in our lives. Without fail, getting organized figures into the Top 5 of New Year’s resolutions due in part to messy closets, packed garages, overflowing kitchen cabinets and cluttered basements. Where to start is always the dilemma. Fortunately, help is available as close by as Brownstown, from Victory Closets of Susquehanna Valley and KbE (Kitchens by Eileen).

How many times have you stood in front of your closet that is brimming with clothing and thought to yourself, “I have nothing to wear.” Think of it as not being able to see the trees because of the forest you’ve created.

Do you have a friend who habitually arrives late because she “couldn’t find anything to wear”? You may joke that her tardiness is related to her personality or lack of time-management skills, but the real culprit probably begins with her very disorganized

closet. Or, have you been late for an appointment because the dress you wanted to wear was a wrinkled mess and required ironing? (A packed closet can impact the condition and longevity of your clothing.)

Often times such scenarios are related to the fact that our closets are filled with items that are out of season, out of style or are several sizes too small or large (most women admit to having wardrobes in three different sizes).

Being disorganized seeps into other areas of our homes. Have you reached

into the back of a kitchen cabinet and pulled out an ingredient for a dish you are making only to discover it’s five years old? Are you constantly searching for your dog’s leash for that 6 a.m. walk? When was the last time you parked your car in the garage? Having to remove snow from your car at 7 a.m. is not fun.

Such scenarios are not good ways to start the day, as they can make you late for work, an appointment, a restaurant reservation or a family function.

Preparing dinner for guests can throw you into a tailspin if it requires an

unexpected trip to the grocery store. The roots of such problems can be traced back to a closet or cabinet that is lacking in organization.

Believe it or not, the chaotic state of the storage areas in your home can weigh on your mind and contribute to mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and even depression. It can even lead to unnecessary spending –how many times have you bought something only to find a similar item hiding in your closet? Being

unorganized can upset family dynamics and even lead to isolation, as such a lifestyle isn’t conducive to entertaining friends and family.

Next to a cup of coffee, an organized home may provide the key to starting your day on the best foot. It begins with a streamlined closet. Choosing what to wear will become easier and you’ll look more polished and put together. You’ll be able to better concentrate on your plans or tasks for the day. Best of all, you’ll arrive on time.

One model room at KbE demonstrates how unused space can be transformed into a very organized dressing room by employing a Victory Closets system that can be easily reconfigured by the homeowners as their needs change. The color seen here is driftwood.

The Victory Closets of Susquehanna Valley sales and installation team (left to right), Jonah, Jen and Jake.

KbE addressed home office organization through the addition of built-in cabinetry in this space that was claimed from a very large laundry room.

VICTORY CLOSETS

Aaron Riddle, the president of KbE (Kitchens by Eileen), became acquainted with Victory Closets through participating in regional home shows. “For some reason, we always ended up right next to them,” he explains. As KbE expanded into full home remodels, homeowners invariably expressed an interest in customized closets. “We used a couple of systems but found them to be challenging to work with,” he notes. In addition, the systems were not consumer-friendly. “Our customers couldn’t reconfigure the systems themselves; we’d have to go back and do it,” Aaron recalls.

Impressed with Victory Closets, Aaron asked the company’s owner, Greg Ahart, if he would be interested in collaborating on some of KbE’s projects. As the company is based in Boyertown, Berks County, Ahart readily agreed to the request.

The premise of Victory Closets was launched in 2013, when Ahart tapped into his building and cabinetmaking background to create a wall-mounted sportsequipment storage system for his own use. He soon found his project progressing into a new type of custom closet storage system that can be reconfigured and used for any number of storage scenarios. The system is designed to evolve as your needs change – shelves and hanging sections can easily be reconfigured and other elements can be added so you are not limited by your original design.

Ahart spent the next year engineering and perfecting the system before debuting it at the 2014 Philly Home show where it received extremely positive feedback from attendees. He then pursued and received a U.S. patent in 2015 for his unique product.

Ultimately, Aaron opened Victory Closets of Susquehanna Valley as a licensee, selling and installing the Victory Closets system along with his existing KbE kitchen and bath remodeling business. Aaron was excited that he could now offer clients and home builders such as the Custom Home Group and Pine Hill Builders custom-closet systems at an affordable price. “I’m always surprised to go into high-end homes and only see standard wire shelving in the closets,” he says. Victory Closets and KbE have also partnered with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology students on their Parade of Homes entries.

This pantry demonstrates how a Victory Closets system can fit into custom cabinetry. Behind the vintage-inspired sliding doors you find shelving and a cabinet on one side and floor-to-ceiling cubbies on the other.

Above: This kitchen pantry utilized the Victory Closets system to provide dedicated spaces for essentials such as paper products, as well as for small appliances and entertaining elements that are not used on a regular basis.

Clients love the look of the system, which is available in white, driftwood and vintage colors. Rods, drawer pulls and accessories are available in rubbedbronze or brushed-nickel finishes.

Optional elements include glide-out wire baskets, hampers, two-tier jewelry drawers, belt/scarf and tie racks, valet rods and more. “You don’t see any metal pins, either,” Aaron remarks. “The result is a more polished, custom look.” Aaron’s wife and the company’s operations manager, Esther Riddle, likes the practicality of the system. “It’s suspended and doesn’t go to the floor, so it doesn’t impact your flooring or baseboards and makes replacing the flooring much easier,” she notes.

Another plus is the fact that should you move, you can take the system with you. However, that may prove to be impossible since buyers love such amenities and will probably write into the contract that the closets remain in place. Tune into a show such as Love It or List It (HGTV) and inevitably the party who wants to sell names a lack of closet space as a reason why the house no longer suits his or her needs. As for the party who wants to stay put, his or her wish list seems to always include adding a spacious, walk-in closet in the primary suite.

A PANDEMIC PHENOMENON

Incredibly, the pandemic only drove interest in the closet system. “People were home and cleaning out closets,” says Aaron. “They began to make lists of what works and what doesn’t. Their remodeling goals always seemed to address increased storage and bringing organization to their lives.” Business boomed.

Fortunately, no matter the need for organization, whether it’s in a bedroom, the kitchen – “Everyone wants a pantry,” Aaron notes – garage, basement, mud room or rec room, there is an organization solution. For example, Esther reports that empty nesters who are staying in their homes are creating the ultimate indulgence by converting unused bedrooms into large walk-in closets complete with chandeliers, wallpaper, storage islands and other conveniences. “The systems

work equally as well in standard reach-in closets,” Aaron adds.

The home building and remodeling industry is also taking notice of the consumer’s desire to get organized.

On the KbE side of the business with its custom kitchens and baths, Aaron notes, “Cabinetry is better designed and much more functional now.” Features such as appliance garages help to keep coffee makers, instant pots, mixers and other appliances out of sight but easily accessible, which contributes to clutterfree counters. Pull-out spice racks add convenience to the cooking process. In bathrooms, vanities now feature pullout drawers (equipped with electrical outlets and organizational canisters), as well as cabinets lined with shelves that are more conducive to organization. Built-ins and cabinetry are also in demand to make home offices more organized and professional looking.

“Being organized can change your life,” Aaron says. He speaks from experience, as KbE recently put the finishing touches on their new headquarters, where model rooms allow visitors to see products that address organization, while private offices enable designers and other personnel to be creative and simply breathe. “Before, we had eight people working out of one office. It was becoming a problem,” he says of trying to make a 100-year-old building meet the needs of the techdriven 21st century. “Plus, it had no storage, so we can definitely relate to the problems our customers are having.”

For more information, visit kitchensbyeileen.com and victoryclosets.com. Visit their showroom at 4224 Oregon Pike, Brownstown.

The building/remodeling industry is addressing consumers’ desire for organized homes. In bathrooms – such as one KbE remodeled – the vanity is outfitted with drawers and cabinets that provide shelving.

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Event-full American Music Theatre

If you are looking for an opportunity to get out of the house this winter, American Music Theatre boasts a stacked performance lineup for the start of 2023.

The 1,600-seat theatre hosts more than 200 live performances each year, ranging from Broadway tours to famous comedians to pop, country and rock legends. Thanks to the theatre’s convenient location on Route 30 in Lancaster, you can make a night of it by grabbing dinner and drinks before the show or even booking a staycation. What follows is a sampling of upcoming shows.

Stayin’ Alive: One Night of The Bee Gees

January 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Complete with big-screen video clips, photos and dazzling imagery, Stayin’ Alive offers an exciting tribute to The Bee Gees, performing tracks such as Night Fever, How Deep Is Your Love, You Should Be Dancing and Stayin’ Alive

Elvis Birthday Bash

January 21 at 2 & 7 p.m.

Celebrate the King of Rock and Roll’s birthday with Elvis impersonators Scot Bruce and Mike Albert, performing as the younger and older Elvis respectively. Join Mike Albert

again on January 22 as he performs

The Elvis Gospel Show with The Stamps Quartet at 3 p.m.

’50s

Dance Party: The Music of Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper & Ritchie Valens

January 29 at 3 p.m. John Mueller’s ’50s Dance Party is the official and authentic re-creation of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper’s final tour and the only show endorsed by the Holly, Valens and Richardson estates. Enjoy two hours of all the hit songs of the ’50s, including Peggy Sue, La Bamba, Rave On and more.

Boyz II Men

February 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Considered one of the most iconic R&B groups, Boyz II Men redefined the genre with their unique vocal harmonies and emotional ballads, including End of the Road, I’ll Make Love to You, One Sweet Day and Motownphilly

Trace Adkins

February 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Since his debut in 1996, Trace Adkins has made his mark on the country music industry with 11 million albums sold, multiple Grammy nominations, CMT and ACM awards and many more achievements. His hit songs include You’re Gonna Miss This, Ladies Love Country Boys, Songs About Me, Just Fishin’ and Every Light in the House.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

March 5 at 7 p.m.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story is a concert-style theatre show about two young boys from Queens who went on

to become one of the most successful music duos. Using state-of-the-art video projection, lighting and a full live band, the show features all the hits such as Mrs. Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water and The Sound of Silence.

Brit Floyd

March 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Brit Floyd will return to the American Music Theatre stage to perform what is widely regarded as the world’s greatest rock tribute show, faithfully recreating the scale and pomp of the final 1994 Pink Floyd tour, complete with a light show, iconic circle screen, lasers, inflatables and theatrics.

Josh Turner

April 13 at 7:30 p.m.

Josh Turner’s distinctive baritone is one of country music’s most recognizable voices. His chart-topping songs include Your Man, All Over Me and Why Don’t We Just Dance.

The Temptations and The Four Tops

April 14 at 7:30 p.m.

During their six-decade career, The Temptations have charted numerous tracks including My Girl, Ain’t Too Proud to Beg, Get Ready, Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone and many others. The Four Tops teamed up in high school and spent over four decades becoming one of Motown’s most consistent hit-makers, including Baby I Need Your Loving, I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch) and Reach Out (I’ll Be There).

Scotty McCreery

April 28 at 8 p.m.

After winning the 10th season of American Idol in 2011, Scotty McCreery achieved new heights with his deep, strong country voice and award-winning songs, including Five More Minutes, This Is It, I Love You This Big and more.

American Music Theatre is located at 2425 Lincoln Highway East in Lancaster. To view a full list of upcoming shows and buy tickets, visit amtshows.com.

Life changing is... knowing you’re not alone

“I want to support people in reaching whatever goals they have.”

- Lynn, MSW, LSW, Outpatient Social Worker

Many of us run busy lives. With daily demands and stresses, we tend to put ourselves last. If this year is for you and you have been putting off your ideal smile, let’s put your smile and health first with our caring and judgement-free team.

Your health and smile don’t have to wait any longer. Let us help reach your New Year’s resolution of a new you!

Dr. Weierbach and Dr. Genetti are American Dental Association recognized specialists in restoring and replacing teeth for a timeless display of confident beauty and Members in the American College of Prosthodontists.