Are you Jerseylicious? Scenes from the Hoboken premiere party

Not for nothing, but this past Sunday, I was looking pretty Jerseylicious as the hubs and I headed off to the “Jerseylicious” red carpet premiere at LUA in Hoboken. Being that I’m a Jersey girl and a reality TV lover, this was the place to be. 

We arrived at LUA and the place was already hopping. Everyone was in great spirits and excited to congratulate the staff of Gatsby Salon in Green Brook and the new stars of "Jerseylicious.”  We found a spot near the bar and I quickly realized we were right near all the action. The cast and their families were all around us.  I walked up to a few of the cast members and congratulated them on the show. I must say, the cast really worked the crowd, walking around saying hi to everyone. No signs of Alexa or Olivia though. 

The premiere was organized by The Hip Event in Montclair, NJ and they assured me that the cast would answering questions in the press room.  I had already thought about what questions I would ask. Enough of the “what are you wearing, what do you think of the Jerseylicious v. Jersey Shore” business; I wanted to be original and fun, like my Blues Traveler interview. 

First up, Anthony Lombardi, who owns the Anthony Robert Salon in Verona, NJ.  Anthony and I already chatted it up a bit earlier and I knew he was a totally down to earth guy. I’m not one to brag, but before Anthony and I started the interview he told me that my husband and I were his faves. I’m not shocked, we’re Jerseylicious too. We were there to have a good time and watch a fun show about our home state.  Jersey baby!

Anthony said he’s proud to be from Jersey and that’s what makes him Jerseylicious. “I’m proud of everything the State has to offer. I love everything about this State, I’m a Jersey boy at heart and I wear it on my sleeve and if that makes me Jerseylicious, so be it,” he stated. When I asked Anthony what Jersey celebrity he thought had the best style, he took off his hat, displaying his shaved head and said “I gotta say Bruce Willis. He’s another Jersey boy that lets it all out there, he made it big and he’s not afraid to say he’s from New Jersey.” Anthony always uses a little Bay Rum on his head after shaving and says it feels fantastic.

Christy the salon manager, who is also Gayle’s daughter, came over to speak with me next.  She is proud to be a Jersey Girl and said “I think all us Jersey girls have our own style and originality. We’re loud and bold and not afraid to say what we want to say.”  Christy’s favorite NJ celebrity is Bon Jovi. “Even for a gentleman, he has great hair, he always looks great. I love the fact that he’s never too dressed up. He’s my all time favorite.” Christy’s go-to style product: her Gatsby hairspray.  "I can’t live without it,” she said with excitement. Who knew the Gatsby Salon had their own product line? I sure didn’t. At one point during the night I was able to chat it up in the ladies room with Christy. We talked about Twitter and I offered to give her a Twitter 101 lesson if she ever wanted. I told her it’s a great tool to market the company and herself. 

Gayle Giacomo, Gatsby Salon owner, says she really likes style and has always liked to look nice. “I want to be the best I can be, even at 52. I think our women in Jersey care about what they look like, it means a lot to us.”  Jon Bon Jovi would have agreed; he’s her fave Jersey celebrity. Her favorite products are the SkinCeutical line and Kérastase for her hair. 

Another new addition to the salon, Gigi is full of personality and said that her hair and nails are what makes her Jerseylicious. She is proud of her nails and stressed that they are real and she cut them down recently. She stated “being Jerseylicious means being well put together, feeling good about yourself and being confident.” For cosmetics Gigi loves MAC and for hair she likes Chi hairspray, Kérastase and Goldwell. 

Last but not least, I had the opportunity to chat with Tracy who was looking super stylish in her leopard print dress and teased out hair. I asked her what makes her so Jerseylicious and she said “I think that I don’t take no for an answer, I don’t let people tell me what to do. I mean I’m my own person, I’ve never followed anyone in my life.”  She discussed her role on the show and said she’s pretty much the “I don’t take anything from anybody kinda girl”. Tracy said we will see that and how Olivia tries to push her around but it doesn’t really work out for her. Like Gigi, Tracy said her hair is the most Jerseylicious thing about her. She is a self-proclaimed tease queen. “Tray tease that’s what everyone calls me.” Jerseylicious is about personality and, being friendly and nice to everyone, she said. “I mean it’s the greatest place to be, Jersey, and everyone needs to stop hating on it.”  Hear Hear! 

Asking Tracy what NJ celebrity’s style she adores she stated without hesitation “Bruce is pretty up there”.  Being that my husband is a huge Springsteen fan, and Anthony already stated he loves Bruce Willis’s style, I needed to clarify. My husband was eagerly awaiting an answer.   “Bruce Springsteen or Bruce Willis? If you say Springsteen, my husband is going to be very happy” I said. “Oh yeah I was saying Springsteen. Who doesn’t love Bruce, baby?” Tracy replied. So now we know who my husband’s favorite Gatsby Girl is, Tracy, without a doubt.  

Tracy is a huge fan of Chi Helmet Head hairspray. She swears your hair won’t move and stay in place forever. “People say oh my hair doesn’t stay. That product, it will never let your hair fall. It’s the best thing on the market,” Tracy declared.  

We ended up grabbing a drink with Tracy at the end of the night when the place was clearing out. We talked about Bruce (Springsteen that is), the show and more. I was a pleasantly surprised how nice Tracy was. I saw the previews before the premiere, and the editing definitely paints her in a different light. But like she said earlier in the night, she’s just a Jersey girl who doesn’t take no for an answer and isn’t a follower. I can respect that. Since I’m a Jersey girl born and raised, I get it. 

Next up was the viewing party. There were TV’s scattered around the bar and we all gathered around cheering on the cast and watched the premiere episode. The show is about the re-invention of the Gatsby Salon in Green Brook, NJ. The owner Gayle decided to renovate Gatsby Salon a decade after her husband’s passing, with the help of her daughter Christy, the salon manager. Not only did they want to change the physical look and feel of the salon, by updating it, they wanted to bring in some fun younger new stylists to help with the salon's re-birth. The cast is full of bold, bright personalities with tons of style and flair. The remaining episodes will document the lives of the new stylists as they enter a new journey with the Gatsby Salon.  

Right before we left LUA, we ran into Brielle Morelli, a Season 2 Jerseylicious hopeful. Brielle is hoping to land a role as a featured cast member for next season. She’s super sweet and we are crossing our fingers for her.  

After meeting this super cool, down to earth cast, I am without a doubt a Jerseylicious fan. The show is fun and totally Jersey. How could you not love it?  

Make sure you check out Jerseylicious on the Style Network Sunday nights 10/9 c.  

Follow the cast on Twitter:

@Jerseylicious

@GatsbySalon

@AntLombardi

@gastbygirl

@Tracy_DiMarco

@mystyle

Photos courtesy of The Hip Event

(L-R): Jerseylicious stars Frankie Buglione, Gigi Liscio, Tracy DiMarco, Lorenzo Gangala, Gayle Giacomo, Christy Pereira, and Anthony Lombardi

(L-R) Mother-daughter team Christy Pereira and Gayle Giacomo

Katie DeVito is a freelance writer living in Mercer County, NJ with her husband. Her journey to find full time employment is currently being documented for Parade Magazine. Follow her blog at http://www.kkdevito.wordpress.com and on Twitter @kdevito.

Get to know children's music sensation and Princeton native, Laurie Berkner (Interview and CD Giveaway)

"Check out the Laurie Berkner Band.  The young parents said their kids love her music"

It took only 1 sentence in an email from my mother to introduce me to preschool music sensation Laurie Berkner.  The mention of her name causes preschool-aged mothers to rave about her music and the positive effect it has on their children. Ever since her debut on Noggin (now NickJr), Laurie Berkner's simple and happy songs have made her a household name and a favorite at toddler sing-a-longs.  But Laurie has been making music since her childhood days in Princeton.  I had an opportunity to chat with Laurie by phone to learn more about her childhood in New Jersey and the story behind some of her biggest hits.  Get to know the story behind Laurie's music and, at the end of the interview, look for a chance to win an autographed copy of her most recent CD, "Rocketship Run." (UPDATE: GIVEAWAY HAS EXPIRED)

MrsMo: How was music part of you life growing up in Princeton?

LB: Part of the reason my parents moved to Princeton was because of the great music program in the public schools.  I was in choir all the way thorugh high school and served as vice president.  I was in the school's a capella group, played violin in orchestra and clarinet in band.  In the summers, I did a drama program with Creative Theater Unlimited and when I was 10 or 12, I performed with the Tomato Patch-which is so funny since the name of my company is Two Tomatoes. When I little, I would put on shows with friends in the neighborhood and sell popcorn to the parents.  

MrsMo: Did you continue with music in college at Rutgers?

LB: Well, I took piano since I was 7 (I'm still in touch with my teacher and keep running into her in and her daughter in NYC).  I figured between the piano and clarinet and violin, they weren't good for singing and walking around so I moved onto guitar.  I started that while babysitting in high school; one of the girls I watched was learning, and after she went to sleep I would pick it up and start messing around with it. I took some adult classes at my high school to learn better and then brought the guitar to college.

At Rutgers, I met people in my dorm and started singing with them. I actaully had to force myself to play guitar in front of people.  Singing was easier, but for some reason playing instruments made me nervous. Eventually I got used to it! I was in a number of bands too.  The first, a cover band, was called Tender Vitals which later became The Vitals. I then started Red Onion and then Lois Lane, a female cover band. I also met current group member Adam Bernstein while at Rutgers too.

MrsMo: Tell me about your post-college years from music teacher to recording artist.
LB: After college, I spent a year living in NYC.  I didn’t know what to do.  While in NYC, I was writing and playing music at local cafes.  My upstairs neighbor in the East Village told me that they needed a preschool music specialist at the Rockefeller Child and Family Center.  I had no idea what to do…I had to think differently...had to remember what it was like to be 4.  I soon found how teaching and writing came together so well.  Parents would come to me wanting the recording of the songs like "We are the Dinosaurs;" we (the kids and I) just made them up and the parents couldn’t sing with their children at home. Some parents hired me to sing at parties and would include my CD as favors. One generous parent took me around to stores in the Upper West Side to get them to sell my CD.  Shortly after writing "Whaddaya Think of That" while I worked at the Westside YMCA, the staff there helped me record a cassette tape and I sold more than I expected to!

MrsMo: Speaking of your writing, where do you get the inspiration for your songs?

LB: It’s been different over the years. When I was teaching, I was often inspired by the curriciulum (food, transportation, seasons). I would ask the kids what they wanted to sing that day, and we just made up songs. I paid more attention to kids on the street and listened to what they said to see if it reminded me as a kid.  I jotted everything down and made songs from that.

Then my daughter would bring something up or I’d notice what her friends are into.  "Rocketship Run" was my only album since she was born and she inspired the song "Balance Beam". We would go to the Columbia University campus and all she wanted to do was walk on the curb that surrounded the planters. She could walk for a LONG time and she would do it very SLOWLY..spent maybe 2 hours walking around. I was starting to feel a little like I was going crazy but I could work on a song while we walked.

The song “Going on a Hunt” came from looking around the house, and “Pig on Her Head” was inspired by a kid in my class who would not take a plastic pig off his head. The kids got so into it the song and always requested it. It just grew from there.  If you allow something to grow, it blooms and changes and grows.

MrsMo: Does Lucy help you with lyrics at all?
LB: With the song “Candy Cane Jane,” the 2^nd verse didn’t exist.  She said, “I wish there was a snowman and snowball fight in this song,” so I changed the lyrics. It made complete sense since it's a song about snow.   

MrsMo: Does Lucy have any favorites?
LB: This is funny but I came up with “Mouse in My Toolbox” while she went to the bathroom--we sang it all the time. And then she liked when I sang “Nona” to her at night. I wrote that when she was a baby.  Once when we were driving home from visiting family (and she was crying), she was making this “nona” sound. I started making the sound with her and made it into a song. I just thought of images of her falling asleep. That song has endured.  What's neat is she also likes “White Coral Bells,” which was my favorite as a kid.

MrsMo: You mentioned "Rocketship Run" earlier. I really like the musical variety.  What is some of your favorite music?

LB: I listen to a lot of world music: West African, Hawaiin guitar. My husband and I have been taking ballroom dancing-- hence the “Lets Samba” track. I do not have the authentic rhthym in me, but I appreciate them as much as I can!

I also love Irish music.  There was a group called The Chanting House who would perform in the West Village. They had their own twist on the music.  I love the twist of turning it into pop music and the repetitive rhythms.  I love repetitive, love rounds which makes for good children's music!

MrsMo: You're a woman who's done it all: TV, CDs, DVDs and live performances. What do you enjoy the most?
LB: I think I like recording the best--writing and recording. Every show is different. I like the spontaneity of shows. I love the energy of the kids. They’re all so different. Playing to a big crowd is exciting, but there's an intimacy that is missing.  When I go into the studio, it’s like sculpting. Actually singing the parts feels really good, and then I enjoy listening back and mixing and sculting what the music will become. It’s really fun. Sometimes I feel like I have an overflow of music.

It's definitely changed now having a daughter.  I have chosen to spend less time on my career as I used to . I want more time to be a parent. Some things could be fun if I spent more time.  I like doing shows, but I don’t’ like being away from home.

MrsMo: I'm sure your fans and parents would love to know some fun facts about you. First let's start with your Princeton and Rutgers memories:
Favorite place to eat: Victor's Pizza, The Athenian, TCBY and Hoagie Haven ("The Haven"). We would use our allowance money to eat at PJs Pancake house.
Favorite hang outs: I spent a lot of years playing at Grover Park and Herrontown Woods. We spent time at the Battlefield too. I enjoyed walking the bridges over Carnegie Lake where we'd go ice skating in the winter. I do remember splashing in a big fountain on Washington Street and eventually getting kicked out!
Other Princeton memories: Gathering at the Princeton Library around a week before Christmas. We would get sheet music and candles and walk up to Palmer Square for the tree lighting ceremony. I also remember buying my first guitar at Farrington's.
Rutgers memories:  The Sunrise Grease Truck had great hummus and falafel. I was at the grad student lounge a lot since I helped set up coffee houses.

MrsMo: Now some rapid fire favorites:
Favorite color: Purple (at the moment)
Favorite food: Avocado or dark chocolate
Favorite TV show: was Kung Fu with David Carradine
Favorite animal: I have cats but I grew up with a dog

 

Win an autographed copy of Rocketship Run!

To enter, leave a comment and be sure to include your email info.

For additional entries:

1) Subscribe via RSS feed

2) Sign up to receive the Mrs Mo newsletter

3) Follow me on Twitter (@MrsMoNJ) and Facebook (Facebook.com/MrsMoNJ)

4) Follow my other site, NJMyWay.com on Twitter (@NJMyWay) and Facebook (Facebook.com/NJMyWay)

Please comment when you've done so (you can tell me all in one comment)

Contest ends Saturday March 20th at 11pm

See Laurie perform live when she comes to the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank on March 13th and The McCarter Theater in Princeton on April 17th. Tickets are going fast so act now!

Meet Cyrus Schwartz, president of ZenSoy, Evolve and Mountainside Farms

Cyrus Schwartz grew up in a family that was progressive about health and nutrition.  The 5th generation dairy farm business owner picked up an interest in the benefits of various foods and has made a name for himself as the president of Dora's Naturals, the South Hackensack based distributing center of refrigerated products including his family's 3 NY-based companies: ZenSoy, Evolve and Mountainside Farms.   Just recently, Dora's was named Most Valuable Partner by D'Agostino's Supermarkets Inc. in Manhattan and Westchester. 

As a blogger and a small business owner, I've been introduced to a number of local companies and national brands.  I've gotten to know the people behind-the-scenes which makes me feel confident knowing that the products and food I buy and use around my family were manufactured with care and with the consumer in mind.  I had the chance to catch Cyrus for a few minutes out of his busy day to learn more about the history behind his family business and the process that makes his soy and dairy products some of the purest in the market. 

Mrs Mo: Cyrus, your brands are both healthy and tasty. Tell us a little more about them.

CS: My family has 3 brands.  ZenSoy (Organic Soy milk and pudding) is made with soy beans sourced in the US which means a smaller carbon footprint.  Our Kefir(Evolve) is like a cousin to yogurt but with more cultures in it.  In fact Kefir has 11 live active cultures and ours has 2 strains that have been clinically tested to show beneficially effect on immune system and digestive track. A study was published in the American Journal of Pediatrics showing that it signically reduced cold and flu symptoms over 6 months. I have two boys who are 2 and 6 and I would never make a product that I wouldn't feed them. My oldest like Kefir quite a lot.

Mrs Mo: I like Kefir too and I definitely feel like I'm doing something good for my body by drinking it. I also read about a special purification process you use with your milk. Tell me about that.
CS:  For our Mountainside Farms Ultra Pure Milk, we use a new technology that is primarily only used in Canada and England.  We filter out about 90-95% of the bacteria prior to pasteurizing giving the milk a longer shelf life. And of course it's hormone free/antibiotic free.

Mrs Mo: I also read that you also only work with farmers who do not use extra hormones or antibiotics. There definitely is growing trend and perhaps more of an awareness about dairy and meat products going hormone/antibiotic free. What are your feelings on the subject.
CS: First of all, just to dispel any myths about milk, there is a natural level of bovine hormone in milk.  And if a cow gets sick, the farmer treats it with minimum antibiotics.  The Federal government screens milk for 5 families of antibiotics and we screen for more than is required.  If a farmer gives growth hormone to a cow, that’ll make it produce more milk and put stress on the cow and it's not necessary..not something we need to do. Not something that should be allowed. If I can avoid it, I will.

Mrs Mo: Going back to ZenSoy for a moment, what made you decide to go soy?
CS: Well what we are doing-our flavors, products, process-is quite unique and soy and Organic foods are trendy right now.  But we also found that a large number of our consumers had children with multiple food allergies.  ZenSoy is lactose free/dairy free/gluten free and tastes good! We get letters from mothers who are so grateful to us.

Mrs Mo: I agree that the chocolate pudding is DELISH! So any future plans for your empire?
CS: We will probably add more flavors to our pudding and our Evolve Kefir and try different packaging. Our milks are regional so I'd like to get into more supermarkets.  For right now, I mostly want to educate consumers about our products and the health benefits of soy and eating Organic. 


Experience the Schwartz family brands by visiting ZenSoy (http://www.zensoy.com/), Evolve Kefir (http://www.evolvekefir.com/) and Mountainside Farms (http://www.mountainsidefarms.com/)

Meet North Jersey wedding make-up artist, Lauren Tomasetti

It's starting to feel a lot like wedding season 2010!  Vendors and future brides are gearing up for events all over the state with some professionals traveling from Bergen County to The Jersey Shore.

At bridal expos, it's common to find a few national brands like The Knot and The Wedding Channel, but a lot of wedding vendors at local shows are not only extremely talented and creative, but they are in business for themselves or running the long-standing family business.  Take North Jersey's Lauren Tomasetti for example. Lauren is a professional make-up artist with a specialty in weddings.  She started her own company,  The Powder Bar, after years of working in the industry both as an actress and a make-up artist.  She's done everything from film and TV, runway shows, special effects and more, but her love is bridal beauty. Here's more about Lauren:

MrsM: What was your inspiration to start The Powder Bar?

LT: I started my business after being out on the West Coast and putting in long days on film sets and wanted something more personal and rewarding. This business was a way to touch individuals with my craft on a more personal level and be home for my new daughter at the same time  

MrsM: With starting a business, picking a name is always so key to branding yourself.  How did you come up with The Powder Bar?

LT: I came up with this name after bouncing many names back and forth. The Powder Bar sounded like someplace I wanted to be:  girlfriends, make-up, hair, cocktails, and pampering.

MrsM: I read that you started playing with make-up at a young age. What were some of your influences? Whose style did you try to copy growing up? Who has some of the best ‘faces’ in the industry?

LT: From a very young age I remember sneaking into my mother’s vanity and playing with all her Chanel make-up. Then when I was old enough to get an allowance every week I would go down to the drugstore and use it on lipsticks. Growing up I always felt like old Hollywood was so beautiful and I love the classic looks. Woman at that time were starting to wear less and less make-up and I always wanted to see more. Then came the age of supermodels and I loved recreating the make-up looks you would see in Vogue and Bazaar. As we approach 2010, make-up is back more then ever, and thanks to make-up forward women like Gwen Stefani, Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Lopez, and Christina Aguilera women are feeling beautiful and sexy in make-up.

MrsM: I love all of the color that "Scar-Jo", Gwen and Christina wear and whenever possible I try to pull off a bold lip. Other than that, I'm mostly all about the eyes.  What would you say are an essentials list for any make-up bag?

LT: Right now my “must have” products are Make-up Forever High Def Primer, Dior Airflash Foundation, Sephora Blotting Sheets, Benefit Hoola Bronzer, Shu Uemura Eye Lash Curler, L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara, Rosebud Lip Salve, and Mac C-thru Lip-gloss.

MrsM: You certainly know your make-up.  So, how did you get into doing weddings?

LT: I have always done bridal parties here and there while working at companies such as MAC and Laura Mercier. I decided to fully focus my skills on the wedding industry because I wanted to work from home and be there for my daughter as well as for the rewarding feeling that comes with being there with a bride on her big day.

 

MrsM: Do you have any favorite client stories or memories?
 

LT: Every client is truly special. I love doing bridal parties just for the sheer excitement of the day. It makes me want to get married about 50 times a year. I also try to donate my services to charity events doing make-up for battered women and cancer survivors. Nothing is more rewarding then helping a woman achieve confidence knowing she looks beautiful.

MrsM: I'm sure with all of your years working sets and with private clients, you have so many stories to tell! But regarding the business end of things, what advice can you give someone who really enjoys make-up and has a talent about getting into the business?

LT: Don’t ever give up on your passion no matter what it is. If make-up is what you truly love to do then I would advise you to take some classes to fine tune your craft. After that then start assisting a make-up artist to see how the business side works. Being a good artist is only half of it: you are also your own boss so marketing and selling the gift you have is the 2^nd part of having a successful career as a make-up artist.

MrsM: What are some of your future plans / goals for your business?

LT: Right now I am happy where I am. My artists and I do about 50 – 75 events a year. In a year or two I will be opening a boutique where women can come and get pampered, take make-up classes, buy top of the line cosmetics, have beauty parties and just enjoy being girlie. Look for the opening of The Powder Bar near you!

NJ's Pitchman: AJ Khubani of Telebrands

On Monday December 7th, Fairfield-based "As Seen on TV" company, Telebrands, and Founder AJ Khubani will be honored as finalists for the NJBIZ Business of the Year Award.  With products like the Pedd Egg, EZ Combs, Windshield Wonder and Shoes Under, Khubani has achieved award-winning success and his road to accomplishment can be a model for any aspiring entrepreneur with an a idea and a mission.

Post-Grad

After graduating from Montclair State in 1983, Khubani, like all recent grads, was looking for a way to make some money in the tough economy.  While working with his father in New York as an importer, Khubani gathered all of his savings and sold an AM/FM radio through the National Enquirer because "it seemed to be the only place that mail-order was advertised," added the NJ "Pitchman." He broke even, but got his first taste of the business and he did so with only "a telephone and a typewriter." 

First Success

You know those foot massaging tubs that bubble and vibrate our stresses away? Well before those even existed, Khubani found success with massage slippers and in 1985 at 25 years old made his first profit of $200,000.  The following year, he made 3 million dollars, had 30 employees and bought his first home.

Future so bright, gotta wear Ambervision

In 1987, Khubani produced his first direct response commercial for Ambervision sunglasses which proved to be wildly popular.  They were also his first product that sold in retail stores.  He sold 15 million.

Khubani had also created for himself a "hit product factory" producing commercials every week and testing over 50 products a year. "We test market each week and about 10% succeed," said Khubani. "But I love coming up with hit products, just like an artist coming up with hit records."

Over the next 10 years, Khubani and Telebrands rolled out more popular brands with each selling over 100 million dollars each.  Some of his best successes (see if you remember them) were: The Jack LaLane Mini Stepper ('90), Morgan Fairchild Dental White ('94), Smart-Mop Shammy ('94), Safety Can('97), Audobon Singing Bird Clock ('98), State Quarters Map ('00), Better Pasta Pot ('02), Doggie Steps ('05), Ped-Egg ('07), Pedi-Paws ('08), Windshield Wonder ('09) and EZCombs('09). 

Pitch Perfect

Before the death of fellow pitchman Billy Mays earlier this year, Khubani was a regular guest on Mays' Discovery Channel show "Pitchmen" co-hosted by Anthony Sullivan.  Feeling inspired by the concept of the show, Khubani started "Inventor's Day" to bring inventors in and pitch their product-kind of like the American Idol of direct response marketing.  So far, there have been three inventions that Telebrands produced: The Windshield Wonder, Jupiter Jack and Heel Tastic. Back in August they had 300 people sign-up and had to split the day into 2 sessions.  The next Inventor's Day will be Wednesday December 9th.

Telebrands unique branding strategy has expanded the company to the International market with a location in Mumbai, India and the UK.

For more about Telebrands products, Inventor's Day and the company history, visit www.telebrands.com.

Meet Bergen County's web master, MIke Kivowitz

There are 247 sq. miles of Bergen County.  There are 247 sq. miles of restaurants, shopping, nightlife, culture and community events and there is 1 man who covers it all with the website Bergenation.com. 


Mike Kivowitz is a Jersey guy-born, raised and current resident-and he's also a very busy guy.  He is the founder of Bergenation.com, a hyperlocal web news site dedicated to reporting on all things Bergen.  But he also runs another website (Leafygreen.info), started his own consutling firm (Creative Consulting & Design, LLC), still works full-time AND is planning a wedding on top of it.  



Here's a little more about Mike "I Do It All" Kivowitz:


Q: Tell me a little about your background growing up in New Jersey.
Oh yeah - Union County Pride! Born and raised in Springfield until I attended Ramapo College and moved all around Bergen County. Majored in Computer Science and Graphic Design. 


Q: What was your inspiration to start Bergenation and Leafygreen.info? And which came first: your consulting firm or the sites? 
 Leafygreen.info is almost 4 years old and going strong.  We have 12+ writers from all over the county and 1 from the UK.  Bergenation.com is only a few months old, but really starting to catch on as Bergen’s Hyperlocal blog.  The consulting firm was somewhere between the two.  I’ve always done freelance work, but I finally made it official and legal.  Gotta help NJ with taxes, ya know. 

Q: Leafygreen.info, Bergenation, your private consulting firm AND working full-time! How do you find the time?   
My fiancé (that's her sort of on the right with Mike..sort of) would say differently, but I manage it pretty well.  Honestly, using WordPress as my application of choice makes my life easier.  I manage it by allotting time to do certain things and I keep my priorities in order.  Using Google Calendar to keep my life organized has really helped too.[I agree!]
 

Q: What kind of support/response have you gotten from the towns/people in Bergen with your site? 
People seem to like it.  Leafygreen.info is not a county or state specific blog, it’s focused on American products, but we’re not too picky and have reviewed international products.  

Bergenation is growing quickly.  We’ve just hit 640 followers on twitter and almost 200 on Facebook.  I’ve been marketing it locally and I want to be a threat to the papers.  I want Bergenation to show the papers how people get information about the local community.

My goal is one writer from each town in Bergen County and to have real sponsors and advertisers.  I think the word of mouth will help me achieve that goal. 


Q: Have you had any cross-over between all of your endeavors? Have you been able to get any private clients through your social media connections?  
Of course, that’s what happens.  I have a few Leafygreen.info followers now following Bergenation and some of them attended the workshop I ran.  It’s bound to happen more frequently.


Q: What is something you really enjoy about running the two websites? 
Interaction and engagement with my readers.  It could be on Facebook, Twitter or in the comments and of course, actually trying out products and places to go.  I also like the design and technologies that go into running sites.


Q: You definitely seem like a Renaissance Man. Got any more tricks up your sleeve for the future? 
Aside from planning a few redesigns, I’m going to plan my wedding.  I will be working on a few more workshops up in NNJ and all that.  But be on the lookout for a redesigned M1K3K.com and updated Leafygreen.info in the future.


Q: When will you be speaking again so your loyal fans and new readers can see you in action?
I actually just booked another day for my workshop.  March 24, 2010 @ 7PM.  The workshop is called The Internet for Business: Using Social Media & Networking.  It's been revamped and will continue to be changed to adapt to the current trends and technologies.  You can find out more @ M1K3K.com in the upcoming weeks.   I'll be relaunching the site soon. 



Q: Since you have everyone's attention, what is one major piece of advice that you can give to the novice blogger about getting their website noticed.
Find your voice.  That would be # 1.  Blogs get more Google juice by default, but using a good platform such as WordPress helps.  Having a clean, SEO(Search Engine Optimization) friendly theme or framework on top of WP helps as well.  The other way, at least for me, is word of mouth. Talk to people.  Engage them and they'll enjoy reading your stuff.


Q: You obviously love and are good at what you do. And you definitely have pride in your home state. So tell us, what do you love about New Jersey? 
NJ has it all.  Mountains, trees, rolling hills, oceans, rivers, swamps, urban areas, snow, great summers, great food and it’s close to NY and PA and a bit further away you’re in Boston or DC.  It’s a great location to everything I love.  I enjoy traveling, beer, food and friends and luckily, it’s right here for me.  If real estate wasn’t so expensive, it would be MUCH better and if NJTtransit got their act together and had better train and bus schedules, it would even better than much better, but other than those two things, I love NJ.





Learn more about Mike's consulting company at M1K3K.com.  Following his two websites on Twitter(Bergenation | Leafygreen.info) and Facebook(Bergenation | Leafygreen.info).

Buffalo meets Boonton with a healthy alternative to the Buffalo Wing

When a food is chosen by Rachael Ray as “Snack of the Day,” you know it’s something special and delish!

The honor was bestowed upon Boonton-based The Mediterranean Snack Food Co. and their healthy alternative to the Buffalo Wing: Buffalo Nickel Wingers.

The crispy potato wing snack was developed by company owner and former “Buffalo-ian” Vincent James in order to give partygoers a healthier choice with the same great hot and fiery flavor. The Wingers come with a heat index ranging from Level 1, No Bull Barbecue, to Level 5, the signature flavor, a fiery hot sauce with hint of bleu cheese called Fiery Buffalo Bleu. 

So how did the BNWingers (www.buffalonickelwingers.com/) fair with their wing loving critics?

“Hot wing lovers instantly smile upon seeing the shape of the snack,” said co-owner Katharine O’Hara.  “It was a great idea whose time had come. When Snack lovers learn of the healthy benefits in terms of ingredients, fat and calories; it strengthens their love for Wingers.”

With only 120 calories and 4 grams of fat per 25 wingers versus the staggering 1050 calories and 72 grams of fat per 15 of the original, the BNWingers won’t replace the popular bar food but they can lighten up any party menu and are never short on taste when paired with complimentary sauces like salsa, bleu cheese and extra spicy dips.   

And it should come as no surprise that the BNWingers are quite popular during Football, March Madness and even the Super Bowl.  Spirited sports fans quickly become loyal followers of Buffalo Nickel Wingers and O’Hara, James and company love to accept recipes, fan photos and flavor suggestions.

“We are thrilled to be in communication with our fans. It reminds us why we developed the snack.”

Fans can join the BNWinger team on Twitter, @BNWingers, and Facebook: http://facebook.com/buffalonickelwingers.

 This is a repost of the article I did for NJMyWay.com.

Getting to know: David Serrano of Fairway Paramus

It's always exciting when a new store comes to town. From electronic super stores to discounted home goods, a grand opening of a popular brand usually drives eager shoppers out in flocks.

I could say the same was true when family-owned Fairway Market brought its legendary NYC market to Paramus New Jersey. To say there was a crowd is putting it lightly. When the Governor of New Jersey (Jon Corzine) and all local officials come out to speak in support of a business, you know it's something special. I should know: I was there on opening day.

Now Fairway Paramus is over 6 months old and the Glickberg family, who have been in business for 4 generations, couldn't be more pleased with the decision to come to New Jersey.

“There is always some anxiety involved when opening a new store, but the reception we have received in Paramus has been phenomenal and we have hit a home run, “ said Dan Glickberg, 4th generation owner. “We know Fairway is a beloved New York icon and we hoped New Jerseyans would appreciate all the things we offer that has make us so successful for so many years. I am very pleased to say they have and we are thrilled to be in the Garden State.”

What's even more endearing about the nearly 70 year old family operated store is the loyal employees, some of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years. One employee had his first job with Fairway 35 years ago and then returned ten years ago as GM in New York. Meet David Serrano, the new General Manager of Fairway Paramus. Here is what David had to say about his 2nd family-Fairway Market:

Q: I understand you have been at Fairway for a number of years. Can you tell me about your first job at Fairway? How long have you been with the company?

My very first Fairway job was at the original Broadway and 74^th Street store where I worked setting up produce. That was way back in 1974. About ten years ago I rejoined Fairway Market – the Broadway and 74^th Street store, again – bringing my career full circle. I served as that store’s General Manager for three years, followed by three years as the GM of our Plainview, Long Island location.

When Fairway decided to renovate and open a new store in the Civil War-era waterfront warehouse in Red Hook, Brooklyn, I literally became involved “from the ground up.” One of my proudest accomplishments at Fairway, so far, has been helping bring the Red Hook store to life during my four years there as General Manager. Now I’ve joined the Paramus Fairway family and I’m really excited about working with our New Jersey customers as we gear up for the holiday season.

Q: Fairway is a family-owned business but is definitely growing! What is different about a family-owned supermarket vs the larger chains?

No one, but no one, cares more about a business and its customers than the people who built it. At Fairway, hands-on management and personal commitment is practically in our DNA. Four generations of Glickbergs have shared their passion for food with generations of Fairway customers, providing them with an abundant array of the freshest, highest quality, most delicious food anywhere - and all at great prices.

Q: What kind of feedback have you gotten from customers and the local Paramus officials about Fairway? I was at the grand opening and saw the excitement first hand!

Since opening in March, we’ve found Fairway’s New Jersey customers are just as passionate about food as we are and incredibly loyal – they rely on us for the best and we never want to disappoint them. More and more people have discovered that Fairway Paramus has everything under one roof. Now, they don’t have to drive all over to find competitive prices and an amazing variety of the things they want AND need.

Q: What are some of your favorite memories with Fairway?

New York in the Spring; sidewalk displays of beautiful produce; the sense of neighborhood that exists at all our stores and talking to customers who have become part of the Fairway family.

Q: How do you get involved with the surrounding community?

Fairway has a long-standing tradition of becoming a part of the vital fabric of its community and Paramus is no exception. We’re neighbors who participate in local events, support community initiatives and provide jobs in the area.

Q: When people hear Fairway, what do you want them to think?

Unbelievably good food from every corner of the world; excellent quality, diversity and customer service each time they visit.

Visit Fairway Paramus at the Fashion Center Mall on Rte. 17 North or online at www.fairwaymarket.com. You can now follow them on Twitter, @FairwayMarket and catch Dan and fellow Fairway food expert Michell London live at 5pm on Chanel 4's "LX NY."

Guest Post: An Exquisite and Pink Wedding Event

Welcome guest blogger, Jenna Laporta, Senior Marketing and Event Planning student with interests in fashion at Rider University. I recruited her from Dr. Aaron Moore's Event Planning class to attend The Pink Veil Event in Millburn: a wedding industry preview hosted by Exquisite Bride. She was lucky enough to get a complimentary hair and makeup treatment! Here is her review of the day.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Exquisite Bride hosted a Pink Veil event that pulled a to-do list of vendors for brides to visit. There were vendors from Oh So Fab event planners, Cartier showcased sparkling round cut diamonds with gorgeous diamond wedding bands for her and detailed wedding bands for him. Sandals Resort displayed new destination wedding packages (themed by Martha Stewart), tuxedo services, bridesmaid and mother of the bride and groom gowns and much, much more!

As for the bridal gowns, the bridal salon displayed beautiful gowns from big ball room styles to form fitting simple gowns, some with intricate lace, some topped with layered tulle, and even gowns with embellished belts. The trend for this winter is to wear what you like and feel amazing! And don’t skip a beat, most brides still opt for the long veils and some make their trains longer for a more dramatic walk down the aisle. The Fountain Spa and Salon provided new looks for bridal hair; from up-dos, and braids to the soft curls of a destination wedding.

Besides the delicious treats provided at the salon, another sweet treat was having celebrity make up artist Khruaira round out the event with her team showing brides the most modern make up for their special day. I was lucky enough to try the new airbrush technique, which is very light and even smudge proof. The airbrushing takes place after the traditional bridal makeup (shades of mauve, pinks, and purples for this season) is applied. The airbrush system comes in nine shades and can be mixed to anyone’s color. Best part is the makeup lasts for twelve hours and brides are able to reserve appoints with Khruaira, her team and even book the night before and still look fabulous the next day!

What's new at NJMyWay

Some of you may know that I am currently acting as Managing Editor for NJMyWay.com and writing a lot more (and less here). If you don't know NJMyWay, I wanted to introduce you through my most recent features. As you can see, we feature food, shopping, businesses, events and good causes around the state. We are also posting at the NJSavvyLiving.com blog. Feel free to contact me with your story ideas and news at editor@njmyway.com.


The aLoft Hotel in Mt. Laurel | Tuesday, October 27

Lo Fatt Chow in Ringoes | Wednesday, October 21 [NJSavvyLiving Blog]

Grand Opening of Best Buy in Eatontown | Tuesday, October 20 [NJSavvyLiving Blog]

Lindbergh Trial performance in Flemington | Friday, October 16

Panera Pink Bagel promotion in New Jersey locations | Wednesday, September 30

New Moon fashion line at Nordstrom | Tuesday, September 29

Captain Dry Clean in Ewing [only on NJSavvyLiving Blog]

Fashion for a Cause Events

Today there are 2 events going on in the state that involve fashion and good causes. Here are the details:

GATSBY SALON TO PARTICIPATE IN BLOOMINGDALE'S THE SHOPPING BENEFIT
Bloomingdale's Bridgewater Commons Mall, 1-4pm

Bloomingdale’s will host its annual multi-charity event, “The Shopping Benefit,” on Thursday, October 29, 2009 scheduled to take place at the four New Jersey Bloomingdale’s locations. The event will be held from 10am – 10pm with approximately 70 local charities participating. Bloomingdale’s hopes to help raise over $200,000 to support the community-based efforts of participating charities.

Representatives from Gatsby Salon will be at the Bridgewater Commons location, 1 – 4pm, hosting hair consultations for event attendees in The New View on level 2. Shoppers will also be able to sneak a peak at the latest hair styles on models during the “Style High & Low Down” fashion presentation, showcasing the season’s hottest trends in ready-to-wear and accessories. Get full details here


DRESS FOR SUCCESS EVENT: SUITS TO SELF SUFFICIENCY
Lotus Boutique in Boonton, NJ, 11am-10pm

Bridget Connor, owner of Lotus Boutique, will host a suit donation drive called "Dress for Success" in conjunction with the Mountain Lakes women's club the Nite Owls on Thursday, October 29, 2009.

Lotus Boutique located at 908 Main Street is calling for women around the area to bring in lightly worn work and interview appropriate attire to promote the economic independence and career development of disenfranchised women around the New Jersey area . Slacks, jackets, shirts and blouses in good condition are all welcome.

Family-owned Lotus Boutique will host the clothing drive at her classic clothing store at 908 Main St on Thursday, October 29 from 11am to 10pm. Wine and hors d'oeuvres will be served at 7pm.

Get full details here

Are you a Mrs G VIB?

Today is the launch of the Mrs G TV & Appliances VIB series, the first of its kind for a business in the Princeton area. It is also my first time as a Blogger Event Coordinator INSTEAD OF the blogger attending. I'm switching hats for the day and it's exciting!

I'm so excited for everyone to meet CEO Debbie Schaeffer, a 3rd generation female business owner, who will take attendees on a tour of her 20,000 sf. designer showroom. They will learn how Debbie has continued to make Mrs G TV & Appliances a success for nearly 75 years. In addition, attendees will be treated to a delicious Salmon lunch prepared live on the Electrolux (the event sponsor) induction cook-top, a fast and reliable kitchen appliance.

If you want to be part of the Mrs G VIB experience and attend one of our future blogger workshops, leading off with Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, Dr. Weigh, in January, give me a shout or send me a Tweet.