The ladies who lunch, showed up and out at Fashion For All 2025—hosted again this year at BOYDS beautiful Wayne location—was a stylish and meaningful afternoon that brought the community together in support of Our Closet In Your Neighborhood (OCIYN) work across Philadelphia.
Held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the annual fundraiser featured an exclusive runway presentation highlighting the season’s most exciting looks, complemented by luxury brand activations that added energy and immersive moments throughout the event. Most importantly, the event created a powerful opportunity for guests to champion the tremendous impact OCIYN makes in the lives of so many Philadelphians.
Sharon Freedman, Our Closet founder Jill Aschkenasy and Alex Freedman
Our Closet In Your Neighborhood (OCIYN) is a free mobile program that provides food and clothing, as well as access to services and benefits.
Shayna Walinsky, Wynnewood, Melissa Strauss of Narberth, Carly Rubin of Wynnewood and Danielle Walter of Bryn Mawr
Boyds Philadelphia and Boyds Wayne are not only retail destinations for luxury fashion but have also contributed to local community support through partnerships with charitable programs like Our Closet In Your Neighborhood, particularly by hosting and sponsoring the annual Fashion For All fundraiser to benefit families and individuals in need.
The following photos were supplied by Boyd’s of the fashion show.
Boyds is a long-established luxury apparel and accessories boutique with locations in both Philadelphia and Wayne,
offering designer fashion for women and men along with personal shopping and tailored services.
Ken Downing and Kent Gushner
Thanks to Kent Gushner, Missy Dietz and the Boyd family for hosting this wonderful event again this year, and to the fabulous Ken Downing who emceed the fashion show.
I photographed a lot of events this past week and will just be dropping a few gems here. I had a great time at the 2025 Conshohocken Winter Market, presented by Cencora, held last weekend December 5-7 and there again this weekend December 12-14 in the Plaza at SORA West, adjacent to Hotel West & Main and the corporate headquarters of Cencora in downtown Conshohocken. Don’t be a Grinch and go enjoy. BTW who is this Grinch, he was sooo good in character. (More Info)
Two years ago, I launched a dedicated Concierge Photography Service to meet a growing need among the corporate partners who support Philadelphia’s major charity and civic initiatives. As an event photographer, I frequently heard from executives and team members who wanted access to high-quality images featuring their participation at these events—but the reality is that not all event photos are distributed to subjects due to time constraints and varying turnaround requirements.
Globy Awards on Monday
Today, approximately one-third of my work is focused on custom client event coverage, providing companies with consistent, professional imagery they can rely on for marketing, social media, internal communications, and stakeholder engagement. Previously, many organizations relied on staff to capture a few cell-phone snapshots, which rarely conveyed the energy, professionalism, or brand presence they intended.
Rob McNeill, Board of Directors Board Chair, Lorina Marshall-Blake is President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation, Greg Deavens former President & CEO for Independence Health Group/Independence Blue Cross, Zabeth Teelucksingh Board of Directors President, Global Philadelphia Association
My Concierge Photography Service eliminates that gap. Clients receive polished, strategically curated photos that highlight their involvement, enhance their public profile, and support their philanthropic storytelling—with timely delivery and a level of visual quality that elevates their brand, to be used in Linkedin, SM, blogs reports etc. As I tell my clients this is a good way to tell your story to your clients, readers etc. to your employees to your board.
Last night’s Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber 2025 Excelencia in Business Awards Reception last night. GPHCC develops, promotes and advocates for Hispanic businesses in the Greater Philadelphia Region while encouraging the advancement and economic growth of the Hispanic community.
Tiffany Tavarez is Vice President, Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships for Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact & Belonging
What I love most about my work is the opportunity to document people who are truly making a difference in our community. Over the years, I have followed the careers of leaders who have risen through dedication, integrity, and service—individuals like Tiffany Tavarez, who exemplifies kindness, respect, and genuine civic leadership. Capturing the growth and impact of professionals like her is not just a privilege; it is a core part of why I do what I do.
Jennifer I. Rodríguez is the President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GPHCC), honoree Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Associates and Tiffany Tavarez.
🚨 PECO & PGW Customers: Make sure you don’t risk a winter shut-off. In order to remain protected, you must be enrolled in a payment assistance program directly through the company. ℹ️ ⬇️
✅ @pecoconnect Programs: • Customer Assistance Program (CAP) • Customer Relief Program 📞 1-800-494-4000 💻 PECO.com/help
Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake is president of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation (Foundation), and Kathryn Epps, President & CEO @fundphlschools, at the The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia Back The Bell party. Independence Blue Cross was honored at the event.
The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia is an independent 501(c)3 not for profit organization that serves as a fiscal intermediary between the private sector and the Philadelphia public education system.
On Tuesday I attended the sneak preview of the Bells which will be distributed to Philly neighborhoods.
The City of Philadelphia and Philadelphia250 (PHL250) offered a first look at Bells Across PA, one of the signature neighborhood programs for the city’s semiquincentennial celebration and part of America250PA’s statewide initiative. Announced by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker in September, the project showcases the histories, cultures, and heroes of Philadelphia’s many neighborhoods.
Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia’s 2026 Director, with artists
In partnership with Mural Arts, 16 local artists are painting 20 replica Liberty Bells, each designed with input from community partners to reflect its neighborhood’s unique identity. The completed bells will be installed across 20 locations for residents and visitors to explore throughout 2026. Look for a formal press conference in January about where each bell will be placed.
It has been a full week of event coverage, with several shoots appearing in my CBSPhilly column and more slated for upcoming Philly Style and Philly Chit Chat features. Now I am preparing to head to New York for the PA Society Annual Dinner and related events, where four of my clients will be in attendance.
These moments are exactly why I do this work—capturing polished, high-impact images that clients can use to elevate their stories, strengthen their brand visibility, and highlight their engagement in key civic spaces.
If you are interested in learning more about this concierge photography service or would like to discuss coverage for your organization, please reach out at HughE@PhillyChitChat.com. I would be happy to explore how we can support your visibility and storytelling needs.
Momentum for ’26 Builds at the PHLCVB Annual Luncheon
President and CEO Gregg Caren welcomes guests to the Annual Luncheon
More than 900 members of Philadelphia’s hospitality, tourism, business, and civic community gathered for an energizing afternoon that truly reflected this year’s theme: United for ’26. The excitement in the room showcased just how strong Philadelphia’s momentum is as we head toward this historic year.
Karen Dougherty Buchholz serves as Executive Vice President of Administration for Comcast Corporation, who recently announced she was retiring from this position. She will still be consulting with Comcast on projects for the time being, as well leading the PHLCVB Board and planning for her sons wedding this spring. You didn’t think she’d really step away from all the exciting happenings coming in 2026. She’s hands on with many projects.
Throughout the program, leaders highlighted the major accomplishments of the PHLCVB and the PHLCVB Foundation, underscoring the collaborative spirit that continues to elevate our city.
Each year, the Foundation also honors an outstanding local hospitality student with the Marie Baker Brown Scholarship. This year’s recipient was Shrita Brown, a senior at Temple University. Shrita serves as president of the Temple chapter of the National Society for Minorities in Hospitality, director of membership for Eta Sigma Delta, and a visitor experience associate with the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation — all while running her own travel agency.
Recognized as part of Philadelphia’s next generation of hospitality leaders, Shrita was celebrated for her dedication to equity, innovation, and sustainable travel.
Donna Farrell Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Independence Blue Cross and Jazelle Jones, City of Philadelphia’s City Representative and Director of the Office of Special Events, who is very busy planning tonight’s Holiday Tree Lighting at City Hall, as well as overseeing many events and projects for 2026.
Kevin Lessard, PIDC Senior Vice President, Communications & Government Affairs and Bonnie Grant, Executive Director, PHL Life Sciences is a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Sheila Hess, Phambassador Club Coordinator, Tracy Buchholz, Senior Director, Public Relations at En Route , Jen Leary – Watch Party PHL, Jacki Mowery, Phl Visitor Center, Lori Albright – Watch Out PHL and Alexandra Niedbalski-Sykes Co-Founder, President @thephiladelphiasisters
Alexandra and her wife, the legendary comedian Wanda Sykes, live in the Philadelphia area and have become powerful advocates for elevating women’s sports. In 2019, they founded The Philadelphia Sisters, a “proof-of-concept for how cities can transform their women’s sports presence from the ground up.”
Their work quickly drew the support of investors and City officials, including Mayor Cherelle Parker. Last January, when Parker joined 76ers owners Josh Harris and Mark Adelman, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts, and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to announce that Philly will finally host a WNBA team in 2030, Alex and Wanda stood beside the podium, a testament to their impact. And they haven’t slowed down.
Michael Newmuis – Philadelphia 2026 Director · City of Philadelphia and Alexandra “Alex” Niedbalski-Sykes – I had the opportunity to introduce and connect Alex with many of the leaders in the room, as well at last months Urban Affairs Coalition Breakfast where she and her organization were honored.
The couple continues to champion women’s sports in Philadelphia, including helping secure a 2026 tour stop for Unrivaled, the professional women’s 3-on-3 league, marking Philly as its first-ever out-of-town destination. Nearly sold out, there are a few suites and seats left. Send them an email to inquire: info@thephillysisters.com
Andrew Lovell, Temple University, Rick Ridall, Temple U, Deborah O’Brien, Bank of America, Kathryn Ott Lovell, Phila Visitor Center Corp and Cari Feiler-Bender, Historic Philadelphia
A standout moment in the run-up to the semiquincentennial: the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee has unveiled 52 Weeks of Firsts – a yearlong series rolling out a brand-new experience every single week of 2026, touching more than a dozen neighborhoods across Philly.
David Lipson, Philadelphia Magazine, Angela Val, executive director Visit Philadelphia and John J. Kroll Keating Hospitality KMS Development Partners
The Philadelphia Historic District Partners are also launching a new Instagram handle, @52WeeksPhilly, which will serve as the go-to spot for up-to-date schedules and weekly highlights throughout the year. Visit Philadelphia has pulled everything together in one comprehensive hub, offering a full calendar and descriptions of all the events including the complete lineup at visitphilly.com/52firsts
Eric Benson with his wife Romona. Congrats to Romona Riscoe Benson, President & Chief Strategy Officer at Riscoe Benson Strategies, who recently retired as the Director, Corporate and Community Impact at PECO Energy
Anthony LiVecchi, SBRE, Nick Lani, Direct Choice Inc, Ashley Parillo, CBRE, Evan Urbania, Zach Wilcha, Independence Business Alliance, and Peter Barnes,
One of the city’s most anticipated celebrations coming up, and I agree, Zach Wilcha, Independence Business Alliance is the IBA Holiday Party, returns on December 16, 2025, and this year’s festivities will light up The Downtown Club by Cescaphe. Dress fabulous for the camera. INFO Here
Rob Carachio, Roberts Event Group and Scott Mirkin, President & CEO/ ESM Productions, a Roc Nation Company – Congrats on your 30th Year in Business. Can’t wait to see all your productions in 2026, So happy you’re working with the wonderful Kristyn Aldrich Co-Founder + President of ASAP! Creative Management.
Always working hard and promoting others, Scott Mirkin announced on his Instgram today: ESM Productions has launched the 2026 Philadelphia Event Vendor Directory, an open-source resource created to spotlight Philadelphia-area businesses as the city gears up for America’s 250th Anniversary.
If you work in the event services industry — from AV and technical production to transportation, design, hospitality, catering, security, fabrication, and beyond — this directory is a prime opportunity to get your business in front of planners preparing for a historic year across the Greater Philadelphia region. Join the list and expand your reach for 2026.
OK busy night. I look forward to seeing some of you at the Pepper pot Awards, then the City’s Tree Lighting and the night is still young….
AACR Gala Glitters in Philadelphia — Party With a Purpose Gala
Philadelphia rolled out the velvet carpet on October 26 as the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) hosted its annual gala — one of the city’s most meaningful nights on the fall social calendar. Set against a backdrop of shimmering lights, heartfelt stories, and world-class leadership in cancer research, the evening brought together scientists, philanthropists, civic leaders, and longtime supporters committed to saving lives through groundbreaking discovery.
John and Kathy McGeever
Honoring Excellence in Science, Humanity & Community
This year’s honorees represented the very best of Philadelphia’s medical, scientific, and civic leadership — individuals and groups whose work is changing lives.
Kimberely Baida, and Jarend Goldenberg
Bonnie Grant and Marguiritte Ambrose
They always have an amazing silent auction!! The committee does a great job on organizing, executing party, as well as gathering items for the auction.
Katie Coleman, Brian Coleman and Sam Rogers
The AACR, headquartered right here in Philly, is the oldest and largest scientific organization dedicated to cancer research. So when they celebrate, it’s not just a gala — it’s a tribute to the people working tirelessly every day to improve outcomes and accelerate cures. We are so lucky to have the headquarters here, with access to so many great medical institutions.
And Philadelphia showed up. (Speaking of showing up, good luck to youse who are in the AACR Philadelphia Marathon this weekend. Follow along at the AACR Instagram)
You can help the team with a donation to support lifesaving cancer research at AACR.org/runners.
Former Mayor Michael Nutter was in attendance. Last year he was honored by the AACR. This year he was honoring Patricia D. Wellenbach “Trish” ; 🌟 Humanitarian Award
Patricia D. Wellenbach Immediate Past President & CEO, Please Touch Museum Immediate Past Chair of the Board, Thomas Jefferson University & Jefferson Health Cancer Survivor
🌟 Inaugural Community Impact Award
The Tara Miller Melanoma Foundation
Founded in 2014 by attorney Tara Miller after her melanoma diagnosis, the foundation has become a powerful force in funding cutting-edge melanoma research. Although Tara passed away later that year at just 29, her legacy lives on through the foundation’s partnership with Dr. Schuchter and its unwavering dedication to finding a cure. Their recognition marked one of the most emotional moments of the night. – They have a great gala themselves every year down the shore, which really makes an impact for us sun worshippers to remind us to put on sunblock.
🌟 Scientific Achievement Award
Lynn M. Schuchter, MD Director, Tara Miller Melanoma Center, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania
One of the nation’s leading melanoma experts, Dr. Schuchter was recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to cancer research and patient care. Her leadership at Penn has shaped the future of melanoma treatment, and her commitment to innovation continues to inspire scientists around the world.
🌟 Early Career Investigator Award
Alexander Huang, MD Assistant Professor of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Huang is part of the next generation of scientific excellence rising in Philadelphia. With a focus on immune-based therapies and advancing melanoma research, he is already making a profound impact early in his career.
A Night Filled With Heart
Throughout the evening, researchers, survivors, advocates, and longtime AACR supporters shared stories that resonated deeply. Applause filled the room as each honoree took the stage — some representing decades of scientific achievement, others representing courage, community, and the continuation of a loved one’s mission.
Guests enjoyed a beautifully curated dinner program, lively conversations, and of course, plenty of photo ops. Fall gala season is in full swing, and the AACR event remains one of the most mission-driven evenings on the calendar.
This year’s event, dedicated to melanoma research, has raised more than $225,000. Thank you to all those involved in making a difference.
Highlights from the 49th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show
Last week, Philadelphia once again became the hub for fine handmade design and creative ingenuity as the 49th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show (PMA Craft Show) took place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. According to the show’s official site, the event featured 195 artists hailing from across the United States, representing 13 distinct categories of craft and design—everything from basketry, ceramics, glass, wood and metal to wearable art and furniture.
Marta Adelson, Stephanie Margaronis, and Margie Honickman
Jennifer Martin, Executive Director of the Clay Studio and Joann Martin
Francisco and Laura Bautista
Janice Block, and Nancy O’Meara, Director of the PMA Craft Show
According to Billy Penn: One of the most compelling aspects of the show this year was its strong emphasis on direct connection between maker and visitor. As the director, Nancy O’Meara, remarked: “They’ve spent the last six months or eight months making their work and bringing the best that they have to Philadelphia because Philadelphia is a great audience.” WHYY+1
Booths functioned like individual galleries where attendees could meet the artists, learn about materials and processes, and even place commissions. The fact that artists retain 100% of their sales elevated the atmosphere from browsing to meaningful investment.
Cathy Altman, recording secretary, and volunteer at the PMA Craft Show with Nicholas Everett, who was recognized with THE JANE AND LEONARD KORMAN FAMILY PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN CLAY 2025
The benefits extend beyond the individual creators. Since its inception, the Craft Show has contributed more than $15 million to the Philadelphia Museum of Art in support of programs, exhibitions, publications and acquisitions. This year’s strong turnout and high level of craftsmanship felt like both a celebration of the show’s legacy and a courageous step toward its 50th anniversary.
Netflix Rolls Out the Red Carpet at King of Prussia: The First-Ever Netflix House Opens Its Doors
A few years ago, we’d be looking up at a two-story Lord & Taylor at the King of Prussia mall, but instead, that big-box retailer has been transformed into the next big bet in the experience economy: the inaugural Netflix House.
Clete Willems, Spencer Neumann, Bela Bajaria, Marian Lee, Greg Peters, Ted Sarandos, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Amanda Cappalletti and Tim Briggs attend the Netflix House Philadelphia Grand Opening Event at Netflix House King of Prussia on November 10, 2025
Netflix Co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters kicked off the evening by presenting Pennsylvania’s Governor Josh Shapiro, State Senator Amanda Cappelletti, and State Representative Tim Briggs with the symbolic Key to Netflix House.
What is it you wonder… it’s Netflix’s bold new move into the experience economy — a first-of-its-kind, brick-and-mortar destination where fans can literally step into the worlds of their favorite shows and films. The two-story, 100,000-square-foot venue at King of Prussia Mall invites visitors to play, dine, shop, and explore inside immersive sets inspired by Wednesday, Squid Game, Bridgerton, One Piece, and more – Think of it as part theme park, part pop-culture playground
Let’s check out the red carpet…
The red carpet shimmered under TV lights as stars from some of Netflix’s most beloved shows arrived in style. Among them: Wednesday’s Luis Guzmán (aka Gomez Addams), To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’s Lana Condor, and
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 10: (L-R) Phill Cain and Sam Lantz attend the Netflix House Philadelphia Grand Opening Event at Netflix House King of Prussia on November 10, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Lisa Lake/Getty Images for Netflix)
Squid Game: The Challenge Season 1 finalists Phill Cain and Sam Lantz, who looked thrilled to join the Philly celebration along with lots of notable content creators.
Wilks Barre’s Fiona Jordan the life of glamorama✨ fashion + lifestyle + chaos 💌 info@fionajordan.co between nyc & pa
Actress JoAnna García Swisher
Ahh I miss the PR on a red carpet who holds up a sign to tell us who is walking it. Actress JoAnna García Swisher She’s known for her roles as Vicki Appleby in Freaks and Geeks, Sam in Are You Afraid of the Dark?, and Cheyenne Hart-Montgomery on Reba.
Allied PR also provided a great face chart, something that really comes in hand when shooting an event with many notables.
It was fun to see some of my friends, content creators, who made the list – like Cass and the City, Cass Matthews. Not only was she there as a top creator, but doing a collaboration with Visit Valley Forge! Cass was one of the first in her field in Philly to understand the business of content creation which really arose after the pandemic. She blazed the trail for many in our area.
Francesca Ruscio – The Philly Golfer. So glad to see her back on the East coast.
Cutest Couple of the Night: singer, actress Kharisma McIlwaine and entrepreneur Al Butler
Best Dressed of the evening!! Content Creators: Erika Priscilla and Scott Corizzi – gotta be honest never heard of them before, but I am following them now. Good, fun content.
Cris Tucci attends the Netflix House Philadelphia Grand Opening Event at Netflix House King of Prussia on November 10, 2025
Lana Condor, Ashley Park and Lucien Laviscount
I love capturing these unscripted red carpet moments, the quick, genuine exchanges that happen between flashes.
Here, actress Lana Condor (who has more than 10 million Instagram followers) chats with Ashley Park — best known as Mindy Chen in Netflix’s Emily in Paris — as she introduces co-star Lucien Laviscount (Alfie). The trio laughed and posed together moments later, giving photographers exactly what they were hoping for.
Pugsley Addams in the Netflix series Wednesday Isaac Ordonez poses with Gomez portrayed by Luis Guzmán, a legendary character actor who’s career has spanned 40 years. (I was fan girling out in my head when I saw him.)
Inside the Netflik House: Isaac Ordonez and Hunter Doohan and
Ilia Isorelýs Paulino, best known for Sex Lives of College Girls, played Top 9 mini golf. That was very cool set up. I wish it were 18 holes, it’s going to be so popular.
The red carpet was just giving with cuteness and fashion like the Dave Ogleton “Fit Dad”, Jackie Megraw and their adorable kids, the youngest girls wearing Wednesday shirts.
In summary: Netflix House Philadelphia officially opens Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the King of Prussia Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the U.S. Located just outside Philadelphia, the 100,000-square-foot venue transforms a former retail space into a themed entertainment destination inspired by Netflix’s biggest hits, including Bridgerton, Stranger Things, Squid Game, and K-Pop Demon Hunters. Visitors can enjoy free admission and explore interactive activations, dining experiences, a boutique cinema, immersive games, and plenty of selfie-worthy photo ops. Netflix Chief Marketing Officer Marian Lee said the decision to keep entry free was intentional: “We wanted that accessibility. We want to be an everyday destination.”
I am so happy people like the content I bring to them. I guess I never realized it til recently, is that is what I have been doing the past 18 years, creating content as I am a photographer, who also writes the story. Back then it wasn’t called that, I wasn’t sure what to title it, on my LinkedIn I said marketer, promotion, but I like Content Creator as a title better.
Kicks of tomorrow night with a preview party, then the show begins Friday.
Now celebrating its 49th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show showcases extraordinary, one-of-a-kind works by talented artists from across the United States.
Shannon Floyd and Ian Petrie
Experience the work of 195 exceptional artists from across the country at the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show, held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center from November 7–9, with an exclusive Preview Party on November 6
In October Boyd’s hosted a gathering to bring PMA Craft enthusiasts together for a night of chitchatting, with a portion of the proceeds from purchases going towards the PMA Craft Show Mission.
Joan Pileggi and Joan Spain
Over the past 48 years, thanks to generous community support, the Craft Show has contributed more than $15 million to the Philadelphia Museum of Art —funding exhibitions, publications, acquisitions, and a variety of educational programs that keep the arts thriving in Philadelphia.
For More Info on the 49th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show CLICK HERE, and I’ll see you there!!
One caveat to know, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, didn’t change their name when the Philadelphia Art Museum had their rebrand. It is a registered Pennsylvania not-for-profit corporation under the name of Philadelphia Museum of Art; I was told it would be a long process to change the wording.
What a fabulous weekend! Darkness fell across the land, and the midnight hour was close at hand. Philly’s streets filled with costumed creatures, ghosts, and ghouls — all out in search of fun, not fright. From Rittenhouse to West Mt Airy, the city came alive in a wild mix of laughter, music, and moonlit mayhem.
Since Halloween fell on a Friday, I made the rounds — stopping by a few new spots I don’t usually hit. First up was Delancey Street, or “the place,” as a reader kindly corrected me. Then over to Michelle and Josh’s haunted wonderland, where despite strong winds, they stayed cheerful, handing out candy to over 1,000 costumed visitors with help from their spirited friends.
Later in the night, I stopped by Mark Nicoletti’s new pad, perched high above the maddening crowds on Sansom Street, where people were waiting up to three hours to get into hot spots like Ladder 15, Pulse, Midnight, and The Wicked. I wrapped up the night at the Henri David Ball, which was just winding down around midnight — it seems most of the costume contests kicked off earlier this year.
Philly never disappoints on Halloween — from spooky streets to sky-high soirees, it was a night (and weekend!) to remember. The creativity, the costumes, and the pure joy of people just having fun together reminded me why I love this city so much. 👻🎉 Until next year, keep your pumpkins glowing and your spirits high! BTW Stay tuned as Lindsay Furman Alexander (r) will be participating in the Dancing for the Stars benefiting Methodist Services January 31, 2026.
Halloween weekend might be over, but the treats keep coming! Biederman’s Philly just announced plans to open a new location inside the former Audrey Claire, more recently the Charley Dove space at 20th and Spruce — set to debut in early 2026. It looks like they’re repainting to capture a deeper hue of blue.
Get ready for more of those famous bagels, lox, and maybe even a little caviar sparkle. 🥯🐟✨
Real estate guru Billy Creagh posted on his IG : After 25 years, the owner of Mixto is hanging up the apron, and this beloved Philly spot is officially on the market at 1141-1143 Pine Street in the Gayborhood. The two-story restaurant features handcrafted woodwork, a 23-foot hood system, and a fully equipped kitchen — a true turnkey opportunity in the heart of the city.
The property will be delivered vacant with all equipment and liquor licenses included, offering plenty of flexibility for its next chapter. Here’s the listing
💔 Philadelphia Weeps for Pierre Robert, the Voice of Rock & Roll
The city weeps at the passing of the iconic voice of rock & roll, a true piece of Philly royalty, and everyone’s friend — Pierre Robert.
I get choked up every time I think about him not being here anymore. Pierre’s warmth, kindness, and boundless energy touched so many of us — from fans who grew up listening to him on the radio to friends who were lucky enough to know him in person.
Pierre was the heart and soul of 93.3 WMMR, where his legendary voice defined generations of Philadelphia rock fans. His passion for music, community, and connection made him unforgettable — a true original whose spirit will echo through this city forever.
Condolences to his many friends, fans, and to all of us who loved him. Rest in peace, Pierre. xoxo 💔🎸
The J Spot opened earlier this month at 501 S 22nd St.
Owner Jacqueline Clarizio and friends
The J Spot is a sleek new boutique wellness and aesthetic studio nestled in the leafy, residential-meets-urban neighborhood of Fitler Square. It occupies the former corner space of a long-vacant commercial property (previously a convenience store), and reflects a major adaptive-reuse project in the neighborhood.
Chrissy Pasquariello, Dana Ritz, Joe and Donna Grasso
Michelle & Tim Glynn
Jamie Giannini, and Paul Glenn
Jacqueline Clarizio, says the J Spot was born from her desire to create a serene, community-centered space far removed from the hustle of traditional urban clinics. Clarizio affectionately calls it a “speakeasy med-spa”—tucked behind a wellness café—offering an inviting, approachable take on modern luxury.
At the opening night party, many of her friends came out to support Jacqueline, a testimony to her skills and kinship. Sarah Frank,Margo Trovei, Amanda Arroyo, Monica Burke, Laura Cordaro, and Celeste Bouikidis
Services provided:
Comprehensive wellness + aesthetics: Services span from IV therapy, vitamin injections, cold plunge/sauna, functional-medicine testing to advanced aesthetic treatments such as injectables, dermal fillers, microneedling and lasers.
Ryan Munro, Meredith Moore, and Brian Erb
Some of the standout services include:
Cold plunge + sauna: For wellness recovery, metabolism, and “bio-hacking” style care. (on my bucket list for 2026)
Weight-loss management: Personalized plans rather than “one-size-fits‐all.”
Injectables & filler work: Carried out by licensed providers, focusing on natural and refined results.
Inside J Spot is the wellness cafe: Nourish your body, fuel your glow ✨Jax Cafe for all your coffee, fresh juices, light bites and baked goods. Everything on our menu is crafted to help you feel your best, from the inside out
Spooky Scary Skeletons is how the song goes but not at 3rd and Delancey, where it’s literally out of space. Stopped off at this storied house to see this years theme, which is aliens invade Earth and cart off the humans, lol. Delancey Street from 2nd to 22nd transforms into a haunted runway of Halloween magic. 🎃✨ Grab your friends, your boo, or your little goblins—no matter the age—and take a spine-tingling stroll up Delancey. It’s one of Philly’s most festive walks on Halloween night.
I think the weather is supposed to be frightful that night, but I own an umbrella and I’ll be looking for youse. 👻
Congrats to Vince Stango, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the National Constitution Center and Co-Chair of the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee and Amy Needle, President and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, Inc. and Co-Chair of the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee on the successful launch of 52 Weeks of Firsts campaign.
52 Weeks of Firsts
The 52 Weeks of Firsts will kick off during the First First Week, January 3-8, 2026, with the very First Saturday Firstival honoring America’s first hot air balloon. The First Hot Air Balloon Flight Saturday Firstival will take place Saturday, January 3 at the Athenaeum of Philadelphia in the Historic District, near the site where the first balloon took flight.
A friend sent me this photo of Bradley Cooper in Jeff Lurie’s Eagles Super Box yesterday. I love everything about it.
Kristie and her friends were excited to spot Landon Dickerson and Jordan Mailata at Elephant at 1500 Locust recently.
👀 Something new is brewing at 1414 S Penn Square… @ Ritz Residences Everyone’s favorite waterfront café may have closed earlier this year, but I just spotted work inside and a shiny liquor license application on the door. The name? Palm Vintage Cafe Sushi + Teas 🍣🫖
Speaking of New Food: Already opened Dig Inn is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location at 901 Old York Road, Jenkintown, PA 19046 last month. This opening marks Dig Inn’s second location in the Philadelphia suburbs, following the debut of its Suburban Square restaurant in summer 2025. Business is bustling.
Also celebrating a month in business: Congratulations!!! 🎉 To Chivonn Anderson the founder and president Marsha’s South Street 🌈 Philadelphia’s newest safe space made for women, sports, community & pride.
It’s finally slowing down for me and I have a few minutes to catch you up with what’s happening. Look for more galas popping up on these pages in the next few weeks.
Thanks for your patience. Socially yours, xoxo HughE
