Hello, and welcome to the premiere issue of Denville City Lifestyle—where we’re inspired by our community, and hope this magazine inspires you too!
We’re thrilled to be your source for all things local here in the Denville area.
My name is Alessandra Guarneri and I am the publisher of Denville City Lifestyle. I absolutely love this town and the other beautiful towns that surround it. I want to welcome you to this new publication that captures the beauty of being right in the hub of Morris County, New Jersey. When I'm not in town, you can find me traveling around the country or at a concert. Two of my favorite places to visit are Miami, Florida, and anywhere in California (especially San Diego!).
My love for this community is what inspired this publication, and I’m excited to share the incredible stories behind the people and places that make Denville so special.
As you flip through these pages, you’ll be drawn into the incredible stories behind the people and places that call Denville home. From the carefully crafted food being served up at local restaurants like Suppa’s, Gourmet Cafe, and Casa Bella, from start-ups and successful family-owned businesses such as Sheeran Real Estate and Onorati Construction, to local artists and creatives, our goal is to share the stories of everything and everyone Denville has to offer—and the things that matter most to you, our readers, for whom we produce this magazine each month.
Thank you for inviting us into your homes and sharing your lives with us; we can’t wait to see you around.
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
BROOKE MICOLETTI
BROOKE MICOLETTI
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
1: fresh pastries baked on a Sunday morning at Chocolatine in Denville 2: residents shopping at the Denville Farmers’ Market 3: Cold Nose Warm Heart Dog Rescue hosts adoption event in Denville
We are a nationally recognized leader in senior housing and care, with a nonprofit mission that is at the heart of everything we do Our 28 communities throughout New Jersey and Delaware offer housing choices to meet diverse financial needs as well as lifestyle and care preferences
LIFE PLAN COMMUNITIES SKILLED NURSING/ REHABILITATION
The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, Red Bank, NJ
Crestwood Manor, Whiting, NJ
Meadow Lakes, East Windsor, NJ
Monroe Village, Monroe Twp., NJ
The Oaks at Denville, Denville, NJ
Stonebridge at Montgomery, Skillman, NJ
Winchester Gardens, Maplewood, NJ
Village Point Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Monroe Twp., NJ
ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE
Springpoint Living at Manalapan Manalapan., NJ
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Communities for income-qualified seniors throughout New Jersey.
Onorati Construction Offers New Promotion for Residential Projects
Onorati Construction is offering a 10% discount on signed residential contracts for Spring 2025 projects, including driveway paving. This exclusive offer is available until March 31, 2025. For more information or to request a free estimate, please contact Onorati Construction at 973-334-0210 or send an email to info@onoraticonstruction.com.
Photography by Onorati Construction
Bravo Music Academy Launches Two New Music Classes
Starting February 3rd, Bravo Music Academy will be introducing two brand new music classes, Music Immersion and Music Discovery, both taking place on Tuesdays at 2 pm. Both courses allow young musicians to explore instruments, foundational skills, and musical genres while fostering creativity in a fun, hands-on environment. For more information, visit bravomusicacademy.com.
by Bravo Music Academy
to
New clients, treat yourself to 20% off your first service with Jessica! Whether it’s a fresh cut or stunning color, she’ll have you looking your best just in time for Valentine’s Day. Head to MJ Salon in Boonton, where a comfortable and welcoming setting meets expert styling. For more information, contact MJ Salon.
Photography
Photography by MJ Salon
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Florist
Broadway Floral & Gift Gallery broadwayfloralandgiftgallery.com/ | 973.625.2772
Marilyn’s Flower Shoppe & Gift http://www.marilynsflowershoppe.net/ | 973.627.6234
Flowers By Candle Lite https://www.floristindenvillenj.com/ | 973.625.0010
Hunan Taste Chinese Restaurant hunantaste.com/ | 973.625.2782
Caffè NaVona caffenavona.com/ | 973.627.1606
Members of Club Connect posing before their "A Night of Stars" event in December of 2024.
ENHANCING COMMUNICATION AND FOSTERING CONNECTIONS FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT.
Imagine a place where connection thrives, and social barriers melt away - a space designed to empower adults with social-language impairments and disabilities. Welcome to Club Connect, where group activities serve as a gateway to building and sustaining essential social-communication skills well into adulthood.
ARTICLE BY LISA KINTISH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STRIX MEDIA, KERI SHARPE
Keri with one of the Club Connect members.
This local organization was created by Keri Sharpe, a Denville resident inspired by her twin brother, Brian, who has autism.
From an early age, Sharpe felt destined to help others. After earning her degree in speech pathology, she began her career at a local private school serving children and young adults with disabilities, where she continues to work today. In 2018, she opened her own private speech therapy practice, Sharper Speech, in Denville. Yet, her “wheels were still turning,” driven by a desire to do more.
“I have a very strong entrepreneurial sense of direction and always want to help people,” Sharpe explained. “I was thinking about my brother and the fact that he and his peers don't have a lot of opportunities beyond their day programs once they turn 21.”
“I wound up starting a social club. I knew that I wanted to do something to foster socialization for adults with disabilities. We started off with four or five participants, and [the program now has] grown to 13 people who come consistently,” Sharpe said.
Club Connect members getting their hair done at Ivy Hair and Makeup Boutique in Denville.
“It’s always important to be patient and understanding.”
- Keri Sharpe
Club Connect is a social communication group led by licensed speech pathologists. Members attend structured events in the office such as themed parties or go into the community and do activities with local businesses - one past event being a glam night for girls at Ivy Hair and Makeup Boutique in downtown Denville.
“We run about four or five Monday nights in a row, and then give members a break for a month or two - then we pick it up again. We try to expose them to all different types of things and activities,” Sharpe added.
For Sharpe, the best part of Club Connect is the relationships that have formed along the way.
“It really, truly feels like a family. That's why I called it Club Connect. I want them to feel like they're part of something. They're a member of a club and a family,” Sharpe explained. “One of the best compliments I got from a parent was that it was great for her son to see the same people at these events, because he's comfortable with them now and knows what to expect from his peers. Some of our members actually hang out outside of the events. That's the best part for me.”
Still, the Denville community is key.
“I think what I would really like specifically with downtown Denville is for our guys to be able to be involved in more of
the events in town. I definitely want them to feel like they're not only part of the Club Connect community, but they're part of the downtown Denville community,” Sharpe explained.
“I'm looking forward to just forming relationships with more downtown Denville businesses, so that when they see us walking around on the street, they can say hi, because they know who we are," Sharpe added. "We're always walking up and down Broadway. I want our members to start to feel like they have a bigger sense of community just beyond my little Sharper Speech office."
This vision of connection and community is at the heart of what makes Denville special—a town where relationships are nurtured, and everyone has a place. With efforts like these, it’s clear that Club Connect isn’t just building skills, but also fostering a sense of belonging that extends far beyond its meetings.
Keri Sharpe on stage with her twin brother, Brian.
DESIGNING WITH PASSION & PURPOSE
At
Our mission is to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional, where every detail is crafted to inspire and uplift your daily life.
ARTICLE BY ALESSANDRA GUARNERI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALESSANDRA GUARNERI, BROOKE MICOLETTI
Alessandra’s favorite places around Denville
EXPLORING ALESSANDRA’S LOCAL FAVORITES AND HIDDEN GEMS
Sergio & Co
Italian Specialties
One of my favorite places to be (especially on the weekend) is Sergio’s right on Broadway! I loves their rice balls, olives, and stuffed artichoke hearts.
Church Street Bagels
If it’s a Saturday or Sunday morning, you can almost always find me at Church Street Bagels. They have the best bagels in town - hands down! Their bacon is possibly the best I’ve ever had.
Sweet Vinyl Cafe
There’s nothing better than a cozy cafe right in the heart of town! I love checking out the new records at Sweet Vinyl.
Anthony & Sons
I highly recommend the sandwiches at Anthony & Sons - their chicken cutlets are amazing! Also, if you’re having a party, try their antipasto platter as pictured (it will not disappoint).
If you’ve never been to Miga Sushi, you’re definitely missing out. I have never had better sushi! I highly recommend the spicy crab roll.
Miga Sushi
winter market: fresh finds await
Discover fresh produce, local goods, and community spirit at the Denville Winter Farmers’ Market
Every Sunday morning, the Bloomfield parking lot transforms into a market full of stalls selling an assortment of inviting items such as nuts, baked goods, hummus, hot sauce, and even natural dog treats.
Perusing the mix of healthy and tempting treats at the Denville Farmers’ Market has become a weekly ritual for many. It’s a chance to purchase produce and ready-made foods, talk with the vendors who grow and create these items, and meet up with friends. Although the weather is no longer warm and winter is here, it doesn’t mean this beloved Sunday excursion has to end. The market is held year-round.
The Denville Farmers’ Market began in 2010, running at that time from about June until November. The opening day was widely anticipated by those who missed the outdoor shopping experience and the taste of fresh products during winter. Luckily, the winter market is now available, albeit with shorter hours,10am – 1pm.
Due to New Jersey’s climate and limited growing season, the winter market does not have as big of a variety of vegetables as the warmer months, but there is still a plethora of local food options.
Chickadee Creek Organic farm uses tunnels to grow spinach, arugula, bok choi, herbs and salad mixes all winter while Sweetleaf Farm
ARTICLE BY LISA KINTISH PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE MICOLETTI
offers a wide variety of hydroponic greens grown year round. The produce is sold with the roots still attached, essentially allowing customers to harvest it at home. Circle Brook Farms and Sugarman Farms also have a variety of root vegetables and other crops.
Liisi Lascarro, who manages the market, noted that despite customers missing New Jersey’s beloved corn and tomatoes this season, they still love purchasing seasonal and year round staples, such as fresh eggs and meat, local honey, coffee and cheese.
“We still have a wonderful variety of products available,” said Lascarro.
Vegetables and fruits may be what comes to mind to buy at a farmers’ market, but that’s just part of the appeal. The market has many specialty vendors, who thankfully are not dependent upon the season, thus enabling customers to enjoy a wide range of items throughout the year.
PickleLicious is always a crowd pleaser with varieties of pickles and olives as well as marinated mushrooms, sauerkraut, and krelish, a mix of sauerkraut, mustard, sweet relish, and a touch of hot pepper. Suitcase Bakery provides breads and pastries inspired by trips to Norway, Finland, Italy and a residency in Ireland. These goodies are made from scratch and are only available at this market.
For those looking to warm up while they shop, Greenwood Lake Roasters sells organic and fair trade small-batch coffee and hot food can be purchased at Empanada Lady. Besides the above-named vendors, there are many others to check out on a Sunday morning.
Perhaps more important than the products is the market’s community vibe, as present in winter as in summer. It is the key ingredient to its success.
“The market was built around the community, a chance to catch up with neighbors, for non-profit organizations to introduce themselves and activities for kids,” said Lascarro.
“I created the market as a passion project, an outlet for local farms to sell directly to communities. It gives me energy every single Sunday,” she added. “How do we shop and support local businesses? It makes a huge difference. It is sustainability - a local market doesn’t get better than this."
Next time you’re craving fresh, local flavors, head to the farmers market — where community, quality, and seasonal treasures come together.
For more information, visit denvillefarmersmarket.com
Denville Farmers’ Market
Melick's cider and apples available at the market
CHOCOLATINE: LOVE AT FIRST BITE THIS Valentine’s Day
INDULGE IN EXQUISITE FRENCH PASTRIES RIGHT IN DOWNTOWN DENVILLE
ARTICLE BY LISA KINTISH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE MICOLETTI variety of pastries
Chocolatine
Stepping into Chocolatine in Denville feels like being whisked away to Paris. The moment you enter, the enticing aroma of sweet and savory pastries greets you, drawing you toward the beautifully arranged treats in the showcase. A mural on the back wall depicts the city of love, prominently showing the Eiffel Tower and Sacre-Coeur.
Beckoning you to give them a taste are treats like macarons, croissants, apple tartlets, St. Honore Éclair and Madeleines, and even Croque Monsieur. They are baked by Cedric Hosy, who owns the shop with his wife, Elaine Castro. Hosy infuses every creation with authentic French technique, elevating them with top-tier ingredients, like the luxurious richness of French butter.
A native of France, Hosy has over 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He received his training in Baking and Pastry Arts at Lycee Francois Rabelais in Lyon, France.
“Our name is Chocolatine Patisserie & Viennoiserie. Viennoiserie are French baked goods, such as puff pastries, that are savory. Patisseries are sweet stuff,” said Castro.
“We carry everything French, except our coffee, which is Italian,” she added.
For special occasions, additional items are added, such as red hearts and macarons geared towards Valentine’s Day.
“Cedric is passionate about what he does, the love he puts in really shows - he’s the real deal.”
“Cedric is passionate about what he does, the love he puts in really shows - he’s the real deal,” Castro said.
As for Chocolatine, it is the name used in southwest France for the pastry also known as pain au chocolat or chocolate croissant.
The shop will celebrate its second anniversary in March and will soon have a second location in Morris Plains, which will offer seating.
“We want to give it a French cultural feeling and have people sit, not just grab and go. We’re thinking of afternoon tea on weekends,” Castro explained.
As for being in Denville, Castro is grateful for the support from residents. “People are very happy we’re here. I always say, once you know the difference between good and bad, you can’t go back," she revealed. “There are no bad mood customers. Even if they’ve had a bad day, the moment they walk in, you see them smile."
Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a baked with love pastry from Chocolatine! Indulge in sweetness, share the love, and make this Valentine’s a deliciously unforgettable one.
A Handmade Date Night
A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.
Make
From-Scratch
Pasta
what you need
Yield: 1 pound
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 4 large eggs
what you do
1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.
2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.
3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com .
Lavender Bath Salt Blend
what you need
16 ounces Bokek Dead Sea Salt
20 drops lavender essential oil
what you do
In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath salt and mix well; store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented salts to a bath for a relaxing experience. SeaSalt.com
Dark Chocolate Truffles
what you need
1/2 cup heavy cream
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
what you do
1. Bring the cream to just a simmer in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate in a bowl and let stand about 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. Add the vanilla, stir until smooth and set aside to cool for 1 hour at room temperature.
2. Beat chocolate at medium speed until thick and light-colored. Spread over the bottom of a baking dish, smooth and refrigerate 2 hours until firm.
3. Pour cocoa powder onto a deep plate or shallow bowl, and using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop, scoop out balls of chocolate. Roll in cocoa powder until coated and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Recipe from FoodNetwork.com
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LOVE POTION #9
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANNA BARNES
A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?
This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1.5 oz rosé
• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or
• sparkling wine)
THE HOW-TO:
1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.
3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.
6. Enjoy!
Are
ARE REVOLUTIONIZING THERAPY
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
THURSDAYS
Taproom Trivia at Diamond Spring Brewing Co.
Diamond Spring Brewing Co. | 6:30 PM
Enjoy the fun of five fast paced rounds of pop-culture leaning trivia at Diamond Spring Brewery right in downtown Denville.
FEBRUARY 2ND
Denville Winter Farmers' Market
Bloomfield Avenue Parking Lot | 10:00 AM
The weekly Farmers’ Market is hosted every Sunday morning beginning at 10:00 am. It features local vendors selling a range of items including pickles, empanadas, honey, coffee beans, bread, cheeses, mushrooms and produce.
FEBRUARY 7TH
First Friday in Boonton
Boonton Main Street | 5:00 PM
The theme for February's First Friday is Love, Boonton. Join local businesses and community in showing why we love Boonton, right on Main Street.
FEBRUARY 7TH
Footloose - The Musical
Brundage Park Playhouse | 7:00 PM
You know you want to dance! Footloose: The Musical hits the stage at Brundage Park Playhouse on February 7th and 8th at 7:00 PM and February 9th at 3:00 PM. It will also return the following weekend on February 14th and 15th at 7:00 PM and the 16th at 3:00 PM.
FEBRUARY 13TH
Open Mic Nights at Boonton Coffee Co.
Boonton Coffee Co | 6:00 PM
Let your inner star shine or just enjoy the show! Every second and fourth Thursday of the month is open mic night for music, comedy, performance art, magic tricks and other clean entertainment at Boonton Coffee.
FEBRUARY 22ND
Denville Polar Plunge
Cooks Pond | 1:00 PM
The 7th Annual Denville Polar Plunge will take place at Cooks Pond. All proceeds will benefit Denville S.P.A.R.K., a non-profit organization that helps young adults with developmental challenges.
