West Orange, NJ December 2024 by City Lifestyle

SHOPPING

HOLIDAY PICKS

STYLE + BEAUTY WHAT’S YOUR GNOME

HOME + DESIGN

PINK AND BLUE

Cheerful Giving

The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child, whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities, or a combination of it all that reflects that best.

For me, the holidays in New York City were always a magically festive time. I loved strolling down Fifth Avenue to look at the intricate displays and then dashing over to Rockefeller Center to stare up at the big, majestic, and iconic tree, twinkling with all its brilliant lighting. Ice skating in Central Park and grabbing aromatic, hot chocolate at Serendipity was always a must. I resided in an apartment building, and it was so much fun to stop on each floor to see how the neighbors tried to outdo each other with the hallway decorations. The holidays brought out that community spirit!

This month, as we help you set the tone to usher in the holiday season and the spirit of community, we wanted to offer a little help to spark your gift-giving and holiday cheer. We compiled a gift guide to ignite your inspiration and make your shopping easier. We’ve also included a little DIY project that will be a delight for the family. We love tradition which often includes the standard colors of the season but, why not try a new hue for the holidays? Also, we understand that while this time of the year can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the holidays, let’s take care of those in our community who need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other, extending grace, empathy and love.

Happy Holidays!

MONIQUE DOMINIQUE, PUBLISHER

@WESTORANGE.CITYLIFESTYLE

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Monique Dominique monique.dominique@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Angelina Silvester

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angelina Silvester, Kate Dawson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Angelina Silvester, Kate Dawson, Martta Kelly

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

DECEMBER

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Nine-year-old Sayaani elicited thunderous applause after having captivated her audience with a traditional dance. 2: The Third Annual Diwali “Festival of Lights “was held at West Orange High School. 3: Dhol spice mix is the perfect seasoning to tantalize your tastebuds. Renu Mittalowner 4: Beautiful hand made creations from recycled products were on display. Threaded Planet-owner Arshad Aziz 5: Lovely and stylish necklaces, bracelets and earrings were presented. Jewelry by Trupti 6: “You had me at Lambchops” 7: Feed me please! Food trucks offering lots of yummy Indian delicacies were on hand

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Welcome D&G Dental- Your One Stop Destination for Excellent Smiles

Dr. Dawoud and his experienced dental team make D&G Dental of West Orange the go-to place for whole-family dental care. As a general family dentistry office, we offer teeth cleanings, dental exams, and other basics of oral healthcare to you and all your loved ones. We also offer dental implants, cosmetic dentistry and oral surgery to enhance your smile’s appearance and health. We look forward to seeing you in our newly expanded Eagle Rock location.

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Dr. Christina’s Nature’s Purée- the perfect gift for the holidays

Dr. Christina Hector of ONYX wants to kick off your holiday shopping with Nature’s Puree, a natural hand made skin care line. Artisan soaps, body creams and lip moisturizers are all available for that perfect gift that will enhance your skin care routine. They are made in small batches from the finest ingredients. Your skin will glow. Created with love and care. These are Ideal gifts for friends and family.

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XHRIS home improvements offers Free Color Consultation

Spruce up your home for the holidays and jump start the new year! Christian Fernandez, at the helm of Xhris home improvements has been in business for over 20 years and is ready to assist you with your home improvement projects.kitchen & bath renovations, gutters and carpentry jobs. Set up a free color consultation to get started on your home makeover. Enhance your look this season with new coat- of paint!

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Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

ARTICLE BY ANGELINA SILVESTER

One-Stop Shopping

Struggling to find a gift for your loved ones this holiday? Look no further! The items in this guide are inspired by gifts my own family has loved, as well as help from our partners at West Orange City Lifestyle. With gifts for him, for her, and for your fur babies, there is sure to be something here to spark your inspiration. It can be hard to find a gift for the man in your life. What could you get that isn't the same kind of sock he's had for the past fifteen years? While there is nothing wrong with keeping it traditional (read: you can get him the socks), I've pulled some out of the box ideas to get you started. For the beer aficionado in your life, try Four City Brewing Company -- their new fall brews are sure to be a great treat this season as fall winds down.

Marilyn Monroe may have had a point when she said that diamonds are a girl's best friend, but not every woman may want something sparkly this holiday. For example -- say your loved one is a fan of HGTV and has been dreaming of redoing your home. You may not be able to do a full demo day, but why not give her the gift of a kitchen remodel? Bloomfield's Kitchen Tune-Up will give your house a refresh for the new year. If she's looking for a new hobby, consider the gift of skating lessons. Starbuck and Company, led by Olympian figure skater Jojo Starbuck, has provided lessons and hosted events for decades, and is the perfect place for those who are looking for a new wintry way to spend some time!

What to get for your pet? They already have the best gift around: your unconditional love. On top of that, you know for certain that your pet is the best boy or girl, and therefore deserves the best gift in the whole entire world. It's a tough decision to make, and I understand your predicament. From toys to treats, I've got some ways to show your pet how much you appreciate them this holiday season.

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Carols of COLOR

HARMONIZING THE HOLIDAYS WITH UNEXPECTED SHADES AND SPARKLES

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE DAWSON

Prepare for a holiday revolution that throws out the old red and green for a splash of unexpected joy! This year, we’re decking the halls with hues that will make even the jolliest elves jealous. Dive into a festive frenzy with blues that reflect the winter sky, pinks that pop like candy canes, and soft greens that whisper of pine-scented air. It’s time to embrace a holiday palette that’s as daring as it is delightful. Why settle for ordinary when you can sparkle? Glitter up your space with

touches that shimmer and shine from every corner. Imagine blue reindeer that twinkle with mischief, and blue glass trees that bring the tranquility of the forest indoors. Enhance your festive tableau with pom poms that dance in the soft glow of fairy lights and bows that add a playful twist to traditional garlands.

And let’s not forget the power of pink! From hot magenta to blush pastels, these are not just for the fashion-forward—these colors bring a warm, vibrant energy that can transform your holiday decor from simple to simply spectacular. Whether it’s colorful trees on a mantle or a collection

of glass ornaments catching the light, each detail adds a layer of whimsical charm to the celebration.

So this season break free from convention and sprinkle your holiday wonderlands with a riot of colors and textures. Make your home sing with the joy of the season. Deck your halls, your rooms, and every nook with baubles, sparkles, and all things merry and bright. Embrace the spirit of the holidays with open arms and a palette of colors that turns every day into a celebration. Because THIS holiday season isn’t just merry, it’s memorably vibrant and cheerfully chic!

SPORTS

Treatment

MUSCULOSKELETAL

Comprehensive management of back and neck pain, arthritis, and other

REGENERATIVE AESTHETIC TREATMENTS

• Microneedling for skin rejuvenation

• Chemical peels for skin renewal and treating hyperpigmentation

• Hair restoration treatments

• Injectables (e.g., Jeuveau neurotoxin) for wrinkle reduction

SKIN CARE SOLUTIONS

Talored treatments for skin health and beauty, focusing on natural enhancement.

WELLNESS AND PREVENTATIVE CARE

Emphasis on overall wellness, helping patients stay healthy on the inside and outside.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

The Naughty List

INGREDIENTS

• Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz

• Laird’s Applejack 1oz

• El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz

• El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes

• Cranberry Juice 2oz.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.

2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.

Discover culinary delights at West Orange Fooderie Kosher Market! From the freshest catch at Fooderie Fisherie to gourmet delights at Fooderie Cafe

Savor top-quality meats with Meat Maven and dive into scrumptious selections at The Deli - Main ngredient and Simply Sushi We welcome you with food for every thought isit us online and in West Orange, ew ersey, and indulge in a world of delicious possibilities! PHONE:

OF OPERATION

YOU are the focus.

• Certificate for NJ LSW’s getting their hours for licensure

• Specialization in Counseling, informed consent.

• Counseling groups for teens ages 13-17yrs

• Convenient South Orange location and virtual sessions

• 33 years of private practice experience.

• Individual psychotherapy,

• EMDR treatment for trauma and anxiety

• Social work supervision

See website for more information

Cynthia Mach, LCSW, CLC EMDR Therapist &; Confidence Coach

ARTICLE

DIY GIFTS

A Handmade Approach to the Holidays

AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELINA SILVESTER

STEP 1: BODY

• Cut off the band at the top of the sock.

• Growing up, my mother used beans or rice to weight the bottom, but you can fill your gnome however you'd like. Leftover thread or scrap fabric work great!

• Tie off the top with yarn and trim the extra.

STEP 2: HAT

• Put your other sock over the body.

• Trim and tie the top. Add extra stylings to make your hat one of a kind! You can dress up your gnome in your favorite sports team's colors, or celebrate a graduate by making it the colors of their alma mater.

• Make sure it stays in place with a dab of hot glue.

STEP 3: BEARD

• Wrap yarn around your fingers, around 20/30 times.

• Cut the end, then take the loop off your hand. Tie the middle of your loop so it looks like the picture.

• Cut the smaller loops as shown. Glue yarn below the brim of the hat, arranging it to make a beard. Trim as you see fit.

• Try out different kinds of yarn. With a red beard, this little guy could become a leprechaun!

Step 1: Cut your sock at the ankle

STEP 4: NOSE AND EXTRAS

• Glue on your pom pom between the hat and beard.

• Accessorize however you’d like!

You can dress up your gnome in your favorite sports team’s colors, or celebrate a graduate by making it the colors of their alma mater.

Step 4: Glue the gnome's nose

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