How do you define wealth? Is it large numbers on a spreadsheet? Or is it the ability to travel wherever, whenever and knowing that tuitions are still paid in full.
How you define wealth is where we start. We listen carefully and create the plan for your life. We call it Living Wealthfully. It may not be what you’re used to from a financial advisor, but it will change the way you see your future.
lyleweintraub.com
A Love Letter to the New Year
As we welcome the new year, we embrace it with optimism and a sense of reflection. This is the perfect moment to consider how far we’ve come since last January. One of the most exciting changes has been the introduction of Millburn & Short Hills Magazine to our community. A year later, we are truly grateful for the warm welcome and trust we have received from our readers. Your monthly story ideas inspire us, and we take great pride in bringing many of these narratives to life. Our community is rich with stories from residents of all ages who are making a difference, and we are committed to highlighting the vibrant spirit of Millburn and Short Hills.
BY MELISSA SPECTOR
Thank you to everyone who has graced our covers and pages! This month’s cover story features Nick Dawes, the esteemed on-air Decorative Arts appraiser from the beloved series, “Antiques Roadshow.” In this issue, Nick shares his journey of raising a family in town and his continued passion for his work in our feature story. January’s issue pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee at the new Millburn hotspot, Willow & Whisk, which we’re excited to feature this month.
We are fortunate that Millburn serves as a vibrant destination, allowing us to enjoy its offerings without venturing far. However, as the new year unfolds, you might find yourself dreaming of travel.
Our travel story, showcasing resident Alex Feinstein’s expertise, is sure to inspire your adventures for 2025.
We hope this issue ignites your community pride and shines a light on the incredible residents who make our town special. Stay tuned for more wonderful content throughout 2025!
Wishing you all a happy and healthy New Year!
With gratitude,
Mary Lima Publisher
Remember to send us your story ideas at marylima@ millburnandshorthills.com or editor@millburnandshorthills.com!
Millburn & Short Hills
MAGAZINE
Publisher
Mary Lima
Editor and Lead Writer
Eve Golden
Writer
Eve Golden
Photographers
Melissa Spector
Melinda DiMauro
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O›Connell
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden
Millburn & Short Hills magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Millburn and Short Hills, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.
Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH
Around Town
BY STEVE GRILLO Executive Director, Explore Millburn-Short Hills
As we ring in the new year, the decorations are coming down, people are getting back to their normal schedules and we are all reflecting on the year that has passed and thinking about the one to come. At Explore, one of the most important achievements of the past year is our partnership with Millburn & Short Hills Magazine and the ability to promote our work and the community at large.
We are truly grateful to Mary Lima and the team and look forward to working together in 2025.
Normally this space is dedicated to community events and special programs, but since this is the first article of the year, the Explore team is excited to share our 2024 accomplishments and our exciting plans for 2025.
For readers who may not be familiar with Explore Millburn-Short Hills, we serve as the Special Improvement District (SID). A SID is a Public-Private Partnership between three groups: the municipality, the stakeholders (property and business owners and residents) and the organization that manages it (Explore). We represent over 500 businesses in five distinct districts and provide a variety of business services. Explore is based in Town Hall but unlike other departments, is an independent non-profit and is eligible to apply for grants and special programs to advance economic development opportunities as well as to advocate for stakeholders concerning zoning, planning, parking and more.
2024: A YEAR TO R EMEMBER
Last year’s work was dominated by new projects and services. After three years of establishing trusted relationships and quality programming, Explore took on new challenges to expand our services. We increased our volunteer pool as well as our Advisory Committee membership, partnered with local non-profits and collaborated with our culturally diverse communities. The hallmark of this work was this year’s public art program called Millwheels 2024, which had a dozen local community organizations participate.
We also expanded our educational services and hosted classes on various topics, including leveraging Google, digital marketing and social media. We collaborated with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to promote their grant programs and worked with a local business, New Frontier Storefront, on the state’s free website program. This work helped nine businesses enroll in the program and each received a website worth approximately $10,000.
We expanded one-on-one marketing sessions that included the creation of social media accounts for businesses, managed a welcome package program for residents at the Harth and The Metropolitan and launched a new social media campaign called “Tour of the Town,” which has helped highlight businesses in all five districts of the SID.
Explore once again hosted Restaurant Week, Founding Day, Girls Night Out, a Halloween event, the Holiday Kickoff Extravaganza and our very popular Winter Villages. We also launched a new pedestrian mall called Town Hall Plaza, which featured nearly 30 live music performances as well as community events throughout the summer.
PHOTOGRAPHS
We expanded our placemaking work with a new mural in the Millburn Art Alley, the Morris Turnpike hardscape project and the installation of six new planters on Upper Millburn Avenue with native plants in partnership with a local organization. We completed a very successful street cleaning pilot program, and we are now collaborating on a comprehensive five-year holiday decor improvement plan.
The most significant achievement in 2024 was that Millburn was awarded with the coveted Main Street New Jersey designation. There are only 29 New Jersey communities that have received a Main Street designation since 1989, which represents just 5% of municipalities in the state. The Main Street New Jersey program is the statewide arm of the national Main Street program, and this is the highest designation possible for a local economic development organization and/or SID. Main Street New Jersey provides technical assistance, training and capital dollars to enrolled communities.
2025: THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
Last year’s work was dominated by new projects and services. New Explore activities in 2025 include the creation of a Business Advocacy Sub-Committee to help businesses navigate quirks in municipal codes and participation on the Township’s America 250th Committee to help plan for the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. We will expand our financial literacy program for business owners and employees through a partnership with our new banking partner, M&T Bank, and continue to promote free services and funding offered by the state and our non-profit partners. We will also host listening sessions with businesses and residents and continue to engage with our immigrant and minority communities.
We look forward to onboarding with Main Street New Jersey and attending our first Main Street America national conference in April as well as receiving a “Film Ready New Jersey” certification to help promote the town to film producers and location scouts. Our plans also include ambitious public art and street beautification work across the district.
ABOUT EXPLORE MILLBURN-
SHORT HILLS
Explore Millburn-Short Hills is the 501(c)3 non-profit organization established to support and promote the businesses throughout the five areas of the Special Improvement District that was established in 2020. Explore organizes numerous events, musical performances, educational programs and networking events. The organization is also responsible for various public art and streetscaping projects in the town including the Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH EXPLORE?
Explore is a volunteer driven organization. We have a nine-member board appointed by the Township Committee, a 15-member Advisory Committee and numerous volunteer positions for events. For more information, contact Steve Grillo at steve@exploremillburnshorthills.org.
The Breakfast Club
Bringing a fresh twist to sunrise through midday cuisine, Willow & Whisk introduces their stylish eatery as a vibrant centerpiece in downtown Millburn.
BY EVE GOLDEN
A Space Revitalized
The storefront at the bustling intersection of Essex & Main is the downtown street corner everyone has been buzzing about. The eagerly anticipated breakfast and lunch hotspot, Willow & Whisk, opened its doors breathing new life into the cornerstone space with an airy ambiance and modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Co-owners, brothers AJ and Rich DiBenedetto, and their cousin Evan D’Auge, discovered the building during its construction phase and immediately knew this location would be special. Boasting open raised ceilings and expansive windows flooded with natural light, AJ says, “The
landlord has been very involved in the project and definitely cares about what’s going on in that building; he did a lot of work to take it from what it was.”
At Willow & Whisk, the atmosphere is just as enticing as their signature lemon ricotta pancakes. Exposed bricks and live wood slabs add a rustic touch, grounding the space, while two lofty willow trees are strategically positioned evoking a warm and inviting vibe. The space also features an exclusive side room, cleverly decorated with lush greenery and natural wood accents. This intimate space is ideal for private events or small gatherings, comfortably hosting 15 to 20 guests.
Brunch in Bloom
Validated by the success of their Wyckoff location, the trio brings their passion for flavor exploration to reimagine breakfast and lunch fare. Growing up, their taste and appreciation for good food was ever-present. “Our dad owned a bagel and deli catering business, and food was always around,” AJ says. “Also being Italian, we loved food and trying different restaurants and being creative in our home kitchen.”
Rich and Evan are the culinary creatives behind the menu, while AJ drives the front-of-house experience.
An Elevated Approach
With a carefully crafted menu, Willow & Whisk rises above in the breakfast and lunch scene, offering focused dishes that are both familiar and innovative; their
decision to hone in on daytime dining is a smart one. “These meal segments are among the fastest-growing in the restaurant industry,” AJ says.
Open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., seven days a week, Willow & Whisk offers a full menu all day. “Customers can enjoy a burger at 9 a.m. or pancakes at 2 p.m.,” AJ continues. For AJ, Rich and Evan, the earlier hours also contribute significantly to a healthy balance between their professional and family lives.
Sip and Savor
Drinking good wine with good food in good company—the restaurant offers a curated selection of wines and champagne sourced from a local vineyard and winery where guests can purchase a bottle to pair with their meal.
“ We can blend orange juice or peach puree to create a Mimosa, Bellini or Sangria tableside,” AJ says, adding, “For those who prefer a lighter option, many of our wines are available in half-bottle sizes so you can still enjoy without committing to a full bottle.”
Establishing a solid brand identity is key for AJ, Rich and Evan. In an already crowded culinary landscape, AJ says, “We believe that trying to please everyone ultimately leads to a loss of authenticity.” This principle is a driving force behind their decision to forgo dinner service. Willow & Whisk occupies a niche in the restaurant world, specializing in comforting and creative dishes that food enthusiasts crave. At the heart of their approach is a commitment to doing what they do best—breakfast, brunch and lunch—and doing it exceptionally well.
Antique Aficionado
Special Collections Executive at the prestigious Heritage Auctions and Expert Appraiser on the Emmy-nominated series “Antiques Roadshow,” England native Nick Dawes has been calling Millburn home for years.
BY EVE GOLDEN
Inheriting History
In the world of antiques and collectibles, Nick’s eye for value is priceless. He looks beyond the surface, uncovering the stories and significance that determine an object’s true worth.
Nick’s fascination with antiques began in childhood, sparked by his mother’s passion for collecting. “When I was around 12 years old, my mother started dealing in antiques,” he recalls. “She always liked antiques, and she began buying and selling items from home. That’s when I learned how you could make money from it.”
As he ventured into the antiques business, Nick took small steps, trading items to earn pocket money. “It was a great time in England in the late 1960s,” he reflects. “You could go on little buying trips and find treasures for next to nothing. The variety was endless.”
A couple of years later, Nick’s mother opened a small antique shop, and he worked part-time, deepening his knowledge and passion for antiques long before moving to the US. “Fairly early on, I worked my first big job for Phillips Auctioneers from 1980 to 1983 as an auctioneer,” he shares. “I managed several departments, all from a beautiful office on Madison Avenue. I was in my early 20s, in the right place at the right time.”
PHOTOGRAPHS BY MELINDA DIMAURO PHOTOGRAPHY, HERITAGE AUCTIONS AND NICK DAWES
Nick reveals the story behind the mid-century Fire-King nesting bowls, an heirloom owned by Jill Luo of Short Hills that was passed down from her grandmother. Retail value: $400 for the set, sentimental value: priceless.
Millburn Heritage
Around the time Nick was building his career he met his wife, Rosemarie, close to his childhood home in the UK.
“She’s from Bayonne, New Jersey and was in England for postgraduate studies in renovation and restoration architecture at a museum where I worked,” Nick recalls. The couple decided to return to the states and tied the knot, initially settling in Hoboken, where they enjoyed the affordability of their $265-a-month apartment.
Six years later, with a growing family, they realized they needed more space, and Millburn emerged as the perfect choice. “We wanted a place in the suburbs to raise our first child. Millburn was ideal with its great train service, moderate affordability and excellent school system,” he says. All three of their boys, now in their 30s, thrived at Far Brook School before making their mark in various varsity sports at Millburn High School.
Going Once, Going Twice…
Throughout his impressive career, Nick has uncovered a wealth of unexpected treasures. One of his standout finds happened a few years ago.
“I often meet people who reach out to Heritage Auctions or to me directly, saying, ‘I’ve got a few things,’” Nick shares. During a visit to an estate on Manhattan’s west side, he spotted a large ceramic vase stuffed with tennis balls. Intrigued, he asked to take it for sale, and the owner agreed. “It subsequently sold at auction for about $350,000—revealed to be a Picasso ceramic vase.”
“You never know what will happen,” he says. “I’ll often deal with very extensive, varied collections or estates, but within that, I do have certain areas of expertise. I could get involved in anything from a small sale to a major deal, locally or internationally.” In the auction business, Nick’s key focus is to identify valuable items in top condition and create successful auctions around them.
Top: Picasso Grand Vase Aux Femme Nues, 1950, an antique Picasso vase Nick discovered during an estate visit, that later sold for $350,000 at auction. Bottom: Nick and Rosemarie Dawes have lived in New Jersey since they were married in 1979.
The Art of Balance
Beyond his already impressive portfolio, Nick is a dedicated faculty member at the Parsons School of Design in New York, where he has taught courses in Business and Entrepreneurship, Luxury Marketing and Art History. “This is my 40th year with Parsons, so I go back a long way with the university, and that’s a very rewarding and important part of my life. I love doing that,” he shares.
As if his days weren’t already fully booked, Nick is also an accomplished author. “I’ve written four books, all standard works on different aspects of the world I’m in.” He has a deep understanding of Art Deco from the early 20th century, and two of his titles focus on the renowned French glassmaker, René Lalique. His latest work, “Automotive Jewelry, Volume Two: Bespoke Mascots,” explores antique metal and glass automobile ornaments. In addition, Nick frequently shares his expertise as a guest speaker and lecturer at
industry events across the country and is a long-time member of Salmagundi, New York’s oldest artists’ club, founded in 1871, where he served two terms as its chairman.
Play it Forward
Nick’s dedication to charity auctions requires a different skill set than fine art auctioneering. “That’s an interesting part of my career, and I’ve helped raise millions of dollars for various causes and charities through auctioneering,” he says. “My favorite one, which has nothing to do with my career in the art world, is playing soccer through the Millburn Football Club.” Nick has been an avid soccer player since the age of five and is currently the Chairman of the Millburn FC. “We play all over NJ, and it’s fabulous fun; one of the great aspects of it is our yearly fundraiser for an organization called FRAXA, which raises money for research into Fragile X Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the son of one of our
members. So it’s dear to our heart.”
When asked if pro soccer was ever in the cards: “No, I wasn’t that good. You know, I tell a joke that there’s only one reason I didn’t play for the English National team; because I wasn’t good enough.”
On the Road
Since first appearing as an appraiser in the second-ever broadcast of PBS “Antiques Roadshow,” Nick continues to be an integral part of the series, offering expertise on ceramics, glass and other decorative arts. Since its 1996 debut, the show remains a fan favorite, and with Season 29 launching this month, Nick is in for another busy stretch. “I’ve recently been told that I rank among the top four appraisers in terms of show appearances, so I’m fairly visible,” he says. For Nick, creating connections and discovering the hidden gems is one of the most exciting aspects of his career, even if those moments are rare.
Left: Nick holding the famous Babe Ruth “Called Shot” jersey from 1932, sold in 2024 for $24 million.
Right: Nick with friends from the Millburn Football Club at a recent “Over-60” soccer tournament in Florida.
Where the sand meets the sky: Alex with her husband, Jeff, daughter Gemma, 6 and son Casey, 3, in Riviera Maya, Mexico at the Grand Velas all-inclusive resort.
Passport to Paradise
In the age of experiential travel, niche advisor Alex Feinstein of Global Eventures is transforming the way we explore our world.
BY EVE GOLDEN
Next-Gen Getaway Gone are the days of cookie-cutter vacations and predictable itineraries. Travel expert Alex Feinstein is elevating the art of exploration, curating bespoke, immersive experiences that push the boundaries of traditional tourism. Although her work runs the gamut from exotic destination weddings to European cruising, Alex’s specialty is tailoring trips for families, including multi-generational vacations and kid-friendly resorts.
“I have a family of my own with children and we are always traveling to new destinations; I incorporate my passion for exploration into every itinerary,” Alex says. “I understand firsthand the special feeling of creating memories and taking mental pictures of the gorgeous wonders of the world.”
Desert dreams: Alex, Jeff and son Casey, 3, in the Judean Desert.
Notes from the Road
Before making the leap to travel, Alex spent 12 years in the fashion industry, working for brands Andrew Marc, Cole Haan and Urban Outfitters as a menswear designer. Now she brings her keen eye for detail and passion for world travel to Global Eventures, a boutique travel company.
Alex and her family have called Short Hills home for the last six years. “I love the diversity and being able to celebrate different cultures, and it is something I fell in love with here,” she says. By integrating her rich experiences with diversity into her work, she is able to connect more authentically with her clients.
“As a travel advisor and mom, I’ve seen firsthand how travel shapes young minds. Taking kids on global adventures not only broadens their horizons but builds lasting memories,” Alex says. “Every new destination sparks curiosity, fosters empathy and gives them a deeper understanding of the world—and themselves.”
Back Yard to Backpacking
A savvy travel guide for modern families craving a departure from the ordinary, Alex uncovers the spots that are often under the radar. From the turquoise waters of Lake Louise to the majestic mountains of Banff, the Canadian Rockies in summertime is an incredible adventure haven for all ages. “There are activities for the whole family including hiking, gondola rides and a gorgeous luxury scenic train called the Rocky Mountaineer,” Alex says. For families with children who are older, Costa Rica is the ideal destination for thrill-seekers, offering ziplining through the rainforest canopy, wildlife encounters, idyllic hiking, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and top-tier surfing spots.
Above: Chasing rainbows and butterflies: Gemma and Casey at the Butterfly Farm in Aruba. Bottom: Floating on cloud nine: Jeff and Gemma parasailing in Riviera Maya, Mexico at the Grand Velas all-inclusive resort.
The World of Modern Travel
Whether a luxury lover who wants to splurge on a five-star hotel and a relaxed pace, or an adventureseeker who’s ready to hit the ground running, Alex expertly guides each travel journey every step of the way.
“I love customizing personalized trips for my clients and letting them know they can go to almost any destination on their budget,” Alex says. “The biggest trend I see at the moment is an all-inclusive resort. People love the idea of knowing when you spend a week in Mexico or the Caribbean with your family
(especially teens who can order on their own!) there are no surprises on your bill when checking out.” Guests can often overlook the cost of food and extras at a resort, but an allinclusive allows the opportunity to unwind and indulge stress-free.
Wanderlust Reimagined
Each vacation Alex plans inspires her clients to explore stunning landscapes, rich cultures and the vibrancy of new destinations.
“Knowing I can help others create those core memories is a feeling that warms my heart and makes me feel
DETOUR DESTINATIONS
like I’m meant to be doing just what I’m doing,” she says.
For Alex, it’s about more than planning vacations; each successful trip is a reflection of her commitment to the magic of exploration. “I love being able to create an itinerary for someone and once we finalize it to hear, ‘This is perfect and I can’t wait for the trip to begin.’ Followed by, ‘The trip was perfect, and I can’t wait to book our next one!’
That means I’m doing something right and helping people find that spark of travel, wonder and excitement, just as I have.”
Travel is more than checking off destinations; it’s an invitation to dive into new cultures and stories. Exploring beyond the usual tourist spots, Alex uncovers the lesser-known paths that highlight the heart of a locale.
URBAN OASIS
While the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre define the Parisian skyline, the charming, tucked-away gardens such as the Jardin du Luxembourg is where local culture comes to life, offering serene escapes from the city’s rush.
“One of my favorite insider tips for Paris is to explore the hidden gardens and courtyards that are often overlooked by tourists.”
WHIMSICAL WATERWAYS THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED
Venice will never go out of style, but Alex loves exploring beyond the main island, discovering the hidden gems of its lesser-known islands that offer a completely different and authentic experience.
“Burano is one of my top picks; known for its brightly colored houses and lacemaking tradition, I always recommend taking a vaporetto (water bus) for a halfday excursion to enjoy the quieter side of the Venetian Lagoon.”
Destinations like Iceland, Croatia, Portugal and the countries of South America are seeing a surge in popularity, attracting adventurous travelers ready to explore their stunning landscapes, layered histories and vibrant cultures.
“These are all incredible places that haven’t yet been completely saturated with American tourism and offer families a wealth of activities and experiences.”
The Art of Modern Alchemy
In her Short Hills home studio, Nova Bronstein is boldly redefining iconic art forms into fresh and innovative design concepts.
BY EVE GOLDEN
The Modern Metalsmith Growing up as the daughter of two successful artists in the creative hub of the San Francisco Bay area, Nova Bronstein’s creativity and craftsmanship was in her DNA. Nova was drawn to the tactile and visual allure of the hand-made. This early exposure was the catalyst for an artistic evolution that advanced her from basic beadwork to sophisticated metalsmithing. In an age where mass production often overshadows exclusive artistry, Nova’s work is a reflection of the timeless appeal of luxury craftsmanship. “I’ve been making
jewelry for a very long time,” Nova recalls. “I started quite young, using seed beads and a bead loom and eventually started working with semi-precious stones and sterling silver.”
Nova’s creative passion led her to a triple major in fashion, textile and knitwear design at the Academy of Art in San Francisco. While studying, she continued to create jewelry in her spare time, achieving notable success. A strong portfolio secured her a position as an assistant designer in the fashion industry.
“In my early 20’s, while working in fashion, my boss
introduced me to The Crucible, a fire arts organization in Oakland, California, suggesting that I learn metalsmithing; this changed everything for me,”
Nova says.
This recommendation set her on a new path, prompting a significant life change. Nova made the bold decision to relocate from California to New York to study metalsmithing. She earned her bachelor of fine arts in the medium, learning from renowned jewelry and metal artists, many of whom display their work in permanent museum collections.
Form and Function
The move into metalsmithing proved to be transformative for Nova’s artistic process.
“Metalsmithing gives me complete control over all elements within my jewelry designs,” she says. Nova’s talent and dedication eventually led her to become a resident artist at the prestigious Museum of Art and Design at Columbus Circle in New York City, further cementing her status in the world of bespoke jewelry design.
“There are no rules; when designing, I often let the materials guide me. I might start with a shape I enjoy and experiment until the elements feel balanced,” Nova continues. “Other times, I begin with a concept, like with my piece “Travel Pixane,” inspired by a beloved, fragile textile from Indonesia my mother had.”
Nova primarily uses sterling silver sheets that are embossed with lace textures and a jeweler’s saw to pierce the metal, enameling it in a kiln after shaping it to create a sense of movement. “I love mixing unexpected elements like paper and wood with stones and metal,” she says. “Sustainability is key for me, so I often reuse materials. Some of my favorite creations feature metal
elements from Arizona Green Tea and Starbucks Double Shot cans.”
The development from concept to creation is as dynamic as the pieces themselves. “For my more elaborate works, I start with sketches and technical drawings to nail down the concept and intricate details,” she says.
Once the foundational elements are in place, Nova re-edits until
each design feels just right. Being open-minded is important when modifying pieces to align with a client’s vision. “I love the challenge of adapting a design to better suit someone’s personal style, ensuring that every creation is a perfect fit for its wearer.” This continuous creative dialogue keeps her work fresh and personalized, resulting in special, focused pieces.
Concept to creation: Design specs for Nova’s exclusive doubloon cuff bracelet.
Not Your Grandmother’s Pearls
When it comes to Nova’s creations, she visualizes them as a blend of art and design, nestled comfortably within the concept of Couture. “Some pieces are very labor-intensive, one-of-a-kind, and designed to make a dramatic statement,” Nova says. “These elaborate works may not appeal to everyone, but they serve as inspiration for more pareddown, wearable designs.” Some of Nova’s collections have been showcased in select museum shops: The Shop at the Museum of Art and Design and in designer boutiques like Maryam Nassir Zadeh in New York City.
Blue Muse
Several years ago, Nova began experimenting with a vintage photography process that dates to 1842, known as cyanotype.
The original “blueprint” method, cyanotype is a non-toxic process that uses a timed UV exposure, finished by washing in running water to create a stunning cyan-based Prussian blue exposure.
“I had first learned about this technique at the age of 14 on a scholarship to the State Summer School for the Arts in California,” Nova says. “I remember being intrigued by the process but felt that its potential was limited at the time.”
Recently, Nova reignited her curiosity in cyanotype, creating a stunning canvas-sized piece that beautifully captured the essence of her three daughters. “That first endeavor took me over a year to fully work out,” Nova continues. “The final piece, “Girls,” was selected for a juried photography show, Exposures 2023, and received a merit award from the Ocean County Artists’ Guild last year.”
Top right: Artistry in focus: Nova’s cyanotype piece, “Girls” captured juried spotlight and Ocean County Artists’ Guild merit award.
Bottom: Another image of Nova’s family she created in the cyanotype style.
Incorporating cyanotype into her portfolio, Nova finds fulfillment in creating custom portraits, resulting in thought-provoking, distinctive composition. Capturing the essence of a subject through layered imagery, each piece evokes a sense of softness, familiarity and nostalgia, while also embracing a surreal quality. “Each cyanotype print is unique as weather, the brightness of sun on a given day, in addition to brushstroke application of the solution, all affect the resulting outcome,” Nova says. “I use photos which really capture an individual’s
personality, usually stripping away the background and layering in other visual elements for the final composition.”
A Creative Haven in Short Hills
For an artist of Nova’s skill-level, a personal workspace isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential. In her bustling Short Hills home, shared with her husband Amar and their three daughters—Amitra, 12, Sirin, 9 and Meira, 7—along with their Mini Aussie Shepherd, Apricot, Nova has transformed most of the basement into a dedicated space that functions as both a
darkroom for her cyanotype printing and a metalsmithing bench and design area.
Just a few years ago, finding their home in Short Hills required the perfect balance of quality education, creative and cultural exposure and a strong sense of community.
“Within a short time of moving into our neighborhood, we’ve made more friends and connections here in just a few short months than we did in the five years we spent in Pennsylvania prior to our move,” Nova says. “I have been so touched by the degree of community in Millburn and Short Hills.”
On the rise: Nova’s picot edge double hoop earrings, featured on the cover of Elle Canada.
Q & a
Smile Forward
Dr. Arthur Szabela of Garden State Dental Design is redefining a new standard of oral care with biologic dentistry, a groundbreaking approach that promotes both dental and whole-body health.
BY EVE GOLDEN
INTERVIEW WITH DR. ARTHUR SZABELA Garden State Dental Design
What is your area of expertise in dentistry?
I perform comprehensive dentistry with a more novel, and maybe unconventional, approach, especially with implantology. My focus is on minimally invasive procedures that utilize a biologic approach. Many clients come to me looking to regain their confidence through not only a more youthful smile but also improved functionality. I deliberately designed my continuing education courses out of necessity, seeking advanced training worldwide to achieve predictable results using the least invasive techniques available.
What motivated you to pursue dentistry, and how did you evolve into a more comprehensive approach?
I knew since I was seven years old after visiting a dental office and needing treatment myself. The dental office was a place where patients seek to feel better, and I wanted to elevate that experience. Initially drawn to general dentistry, I loved the mentorship I received at New York University, which allowed me to customize my education post-dental school. However, after opening my first practice in Clark, New Jersey, over a decade ago, I quickly recognized the limitations of traditional training. I faced complex cases that required advanced care, which often led me to refer patients to specialists—an inconvenient process for them. As a clinician, it was difficult for me to treat some of these cases when I was not in full control of the treatment process and outcome. This realization propelled me to seek the best training available to better serve my patients.
OF DR. ARTHUR SZABELA
What can clients expect when they book an appointment with you and your team?
My philosophy is completely individualized and customized dental care. I evaluate each patient holistically with their goals and desires in mind. Each smile I design is unique, facilitated by advanced digital technology that captures the client’s face from multiple angles. The smile design process is something I look forward to during my case presentations—I see hope for my clients, and it brings me joy when they get emotional with what is possible. In implant dentistry, which can sound invasive, I collaborate with Dr. Eduardo Anitua, a world-renowned dentist and founder of BTI® (Biotechnology Institute). Together, we believe in a “less is more” philosophy, using wellengineered shorter implants that minimize overall impact, benefiting bone health and healing. Additionally, I utilize the PRGF-Endoret® system, which enhances healing by using clients’ own blood, a sophisticated evolution of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). This system has provided predictable results for over a decade, and I am excited to introduce this technology to the Millburn and Short Hills area. Overall, clients can expect a clinical approach centered around these philosophies. Furthermore, we emphasize hospitality; my team at Garden State Dental Design has curated an exceptional experience. Each client is warmly greeted at every touchpoint, allowing patients to envision their best smile in a relaxing environment.
Where have you trained to provide the advanced dentistry you offer today?
I have spent a lot of time training in California and in Europe, specifically Italy and Spain. I have sought out experts in aesthetic and implant full-mouth rehabilitation dentistry. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to “start with the end in mind,” which involves reverse engineering the final result. This philosophy led me to seek out top-tier training and mentorship, particularly from Dr. Anitua at BTI. His approach closely aligns with my vision, and his mentorship has been invaluable in my training on dental implants, including bone grafting and advanced PRP plasma therapy.
What motivates you each day, and what’s in the future for Garden State Dental Design?
I am deeply motivated by the knowledge that my skills can significantly benefit others. Not only in offering beautiful, confident and functional smiles but mostly to improve their quality of life. I understand that I might not be the right fit for everyone, but for discerning clients who value what I offer, I am dedicated to advocating for those who have been told they aren’t candidates for dental implants due to various concerns. With my vision and the support of my team, I am confident that the future is bright for Garden State Dental Design. We are here to redefine what dental care can be, combining advanced technology with a compassionate approach to enhance our clients’ lives.
Providing exceptional legal services in areas of family law and matrimonial law, including but not limited to: divorce, custody, equitable distribution, parental alienation, prenuptual agreements, high net worth matters, domestic violence, Appellate Court and Supreme Court, case second opinions, and Co-Counsel for out of state matters.
JUDITH
Curtain Call
From starry-eyed dreamer in the velvet seats to center stage, Annie Piper Braverman of Short Hills flipped the script on her theater journey.
Being a part of a mainstage production at Paper Mill Playhouse is such an incredible honor! Growing up in the audience at Paper Mill truly sparked my love for theater. And, when my brother Cody performed in “The Sound of Music” there, I was inspired to see him achieve such a big dream.
Now, I am living out that same dream. Being in “White Christmas” on the Paper Mill stage feels surreal, and I am so lucky that Paper Mill feels like a second home to me. Watching the cast and crew captivate our audiences is pure magic, and I hope to spread that same joy with my performances. Checking an item off my bucket list by being a part of this incredible Millburn theater! -Annie Piper Braverman
Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@millburnandshorthills.com.
-Vanessa, Short Hills
Bishops Lane, Short Hills. Asking $3,800,000.
123 Highland Avenue, Short Hills. Asking $3,750,000.
3 Winston Farm Lane, Mendham. Asking $4,995,000.
603 Springfield Avenue, Summit Units 102 &104. Asking $1,498,000.
132 Liberty Corner Road, Far Hills. Asking $3,999,000. 8 Sherwood Road, Short Hills. Asking $4,288,000.
Bishops
Highland Avenue, Short Hills. Asking $3,750,000. 3 Winston Farm Lane, Mendham. Asking $4,995,000. 603 132 Liberty Corner Road, Far Hills. Asking $3,999,000. 8 Sherwood 9 Bishops 123 Highland Avenue, Short Hills. Asking $3,750,000.
3 Winston Farm Lane, Mendham. Asking $4,995,000. 603 132 Liberty Corner Road, Far Hills. Asking $3,999,000.
