In the heart of Westchester County, LOLA New York stands as a testament to the power of friendship, fashion, and fierce entrepreneurship. Founded by the unstoppable duo, Denise Elias and Dawn Pasacreta, this boutique has become a haven for women seeking curated, on-trend styles without the Manhattan price tag.
From Living Room Soirées to Boutique Bliss
Denise Elias’s journey into fashion retail began in the early 2000s with intimate jewelry parties in her White Plains home.These gatherings quickly gained popularity, evolving from casual get-togethers into a burgeoning business. Recognizing the growing demand, Denise envisioned a dedicated storefront to better serve her clientele.
Enter Dawn Pasacreta, a seasoned fashion merchandiser with experience at Macy’s, Nordstrom, and J.Crew. Their paths crossed when their sons became friends in kindergarten, sparking a friendship that would later transform into a business partnership. Combining Denise’s entrepreneurial spirit with Dawn’s retail expertise, the duo launched LOLA New York, bringing a fresh, community-driven shopping experience to Westchester.
Crafting a Curated Shopping Experience
LOLA New York isn’t just a boutique; it’s a reflection of Denise and Dawn’s commitment to offering a personalized shopping experience. Their keen eye for fashion ensures that the store’s inventory is always fresh, featuring a mix of local and national brands. From statement jewelry pieces to the latest in women’s apparel, each item is thoughtfully selected to resonate with their diverse clientele.
Their approach to inventory management is both strategic and customer-focused. By turning over inventory approximately four times a year and sourcing products primarily from New York, they maintain a dynamic selection that keeps customers returning for the latest trends.
Building a Community Through Fashion
Beyond the racks of clothing and accessories, LOLA New York serves as a community hub. Denise and Dawn have cultivated a space where customers feel valued and understood. Whether it’s through personalized styling advice or hosting local events, their commitment to community engagement sets LOLA apart in the retail landscape.
Their philosophy is simple: fashion should be fun and accessible. This ethos is evident in their customer service approach, where every shopper, regardless of budget, receives the same level of attention and care. It’s this dedication that has fostered a loyal customer base and propelled LOLA’s growth over the years.
Looking Ahead: The Future of LOLA New York
With two thriving locations in White Plains and Tuckahoe, Denise and Dawn continue to innovate and expand their brand.Their plans include enhancing their online presence to reach a broader audience while maintaining the personalized touch that defines the LOLA experience.
As they look to the future, one thing remains clear: Denise and Dawn’s partnership is the cornerstone of LOLA New York’s success. Their blend of friendship, fashion acumen, and entrepreneurial drive serves as an inspiration to aspiring business owners everywhere.
Explore LOLA New York:
- Website: lolany.com
- Instagram: @the_lolany
- Facebook: LOLA New York Boutique
Whether you’re a longtime fashion enthusiast or new to the scene, a visit to LOLA New York promises a unique shopping experience curated by two women who live and breathe style.
Thirteen-Time Grammy Winner Babyface and Six-Time Hip Hop Award Winner Busta Rhymes Join
2025 Apollo Spring Benefit
Honoring Music Legend Clive Davis
Benefit Marks Last Fundraiser in the Apollo Theater
Before Historic Renovation
Teyanna Taylor to Receive Inaugural Innovator Award
Wednesday, June 4 at The Apollo at 7:oo PM
New York, NY–May 15, 2025 – Thirteen-time Grammy-Winner Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds will now join Grammy-winning, multiplatinum recording artist Monica to present music legend Clive Davis with the Apollo Theater’s special Legacy Award honor at the 2025 Apollo Spring Benefit on June 4 at 7:00 PM. The Apollo simultaneously announced that six-time Hip Hop Award winner, Busta Rhymes will headline a special performance tribute to Davis featuring Deborah Cox, Shoshana Bean, and others.
The widely anticipated event – the last before the globally renowned 91-year-old theater’s historic renovation – will also feature the induction of Davis into the Apollo’s Walk of Fame by Gamma Co-Founder, Larry Jackson and iconic music executive, L.A. Reid, as well as the presentation of the inaugural Innovator Award to multi-talented singer, songwriter, actor and director, Teyana Taylor.
Clive Davis is being recognized by The Apollo for his pivotal role shaping the careers of many of contemporary music’s most iconic Black artists. With a career spanning over six decades, Davis’ visionary leadership and unwavering belief in talent, equality and bridging gaps between audiences have left an indelible mark on the soundtrack of our lives.
“It’s a deeply meaningful moment,” said Michelle Ebanks, President & CEO of The Apollo. “To see visionary leaders and legendary artists unite on one stage—honoring the remarkable work of Clive Davis, the ingenious spirit of Teyana Taylor, and the iconic legacy of The Apollo. It will be a powerful celebration of music’s transformative influence on culture, and the boundless creativity that shapes our world.”
From the earliest days at Columbia Records, through his groundbreaking work at Arista and J Records, and currently, as Sony Music Entertainment’s Worldwide Creative Director, Davis has consistently championed Black artists. His keen ear and deep respect for artistry have helped launch, elevate or reenergize the careers of such legends as Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, Earth, Wind & Fire, Miles Davis, Dionne Warwick, Usher, Gamble & Huff, Ray Parker, Jr., Jennifer Hudson, Herbie Hancock, Fantasia, Toni Braxton, George Benson, Luther Vandross, OutKast and TLC, among many others.
Davis has a special personal connection to “Babyface” Edmonds and Larry Jackson. In 1989, Edmonds cofounded LaFace Records with L.A. Reid through a major joint venture with Davis’ Arista Records. The record label was a catalyst for Atlanta’s burgeoning music industry, signing renowned global artists such as Usher, TLC, Toni Braxton, and more. Davis mentored Jackson which culminated in his driving critical A&R work for RCA Music Group and Sony Music that propelled the superstardom of Santana, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick and many more.
Other performances throughout the evening will include an opening sequence from Martha Redbone and Grammy-winning singer Avery Sunshine, tributes to the late and great Richard Parsons featuring 8x Grammy nominee, The Baylor Project, and other special features from 4x Tony nominated director and choreographer, Camille A. Brown & Dancers. D-Nice will return to DJ the Spring Benefit’s official after party.
This year’s Spring Benefit will be The Apollo’s final fundraiser before embarking on the first full-scale renovation in its 90-year history. The renovation marks a new chapter for the iconic theater – continuing to honor its rich legacy while bringing forward new enhanced audience experiences.
All proceeds will support the non-profit organization’s year-round, world-class artistic, education, and community programs, as well as its commitment to articulating and projecting the African American narrative using arts and culture and creating a 21st century performing arts canon.
The Spring Benefit begins with red carpet arrivals at 4:30 PM, Clive Davis’ induction ceremony at 5:30PM, followed by the Benefit concert and awards ceremony at 7:00 PM.
Watch for upcoming announcements as The Apollo unveils a thrilling line-up of special honorees and performers. Visit www.ApolloTheater.org for more information. To purchase benefit tickets, make a donation, or for more information, visithttps://www.apollotheater.org/benefit-2025.
About The Apollo
The legendary Apollo—the soul of American culture—plays a vital role in cultivating emerging artists and launching legends. Since its founding, The Apollo has served as a center of innovation and a creative catalyst for Harlem, the city of New York, and the world. In 2024, The Apollo opened The Apollo Stages at the Victoria Theater, marking the first ever expansion in its 90-year history. The Apollo also has plans to renovate its Historic Theater. For more information about The Apollo, visit www.ApolloTheater.org.
With music at its core, The Apollo’s programming extends to dance, theater, spoken word, and more. This includes the world premiere of the theatrical adaptation of Ta-Nehisi Coates’s Between the World and Me and the New York premiere of the opera We Shall Not Be Moved; special programs such as the blockbuster concert Bruno Mars Live at the Apollo; 100: The Apollo Celebrates Ella; and the annual Africa Now! Festival. The non-profit Apollo is a performing arts presenter, commissioner, and collaborator that also produces festivals, large-scale dance and musical works organized around a set of core initiatives that celebrate and extend The Apollo’s legacy through a contemporary lens, including the Women of the World (WOW) Festival as well as other multidisciplinary collaborations with partner organizations.
Since introducing the first Amateur Night contests in 1934, The Apollo has served as a testing ground for new artists working across a variety of art forms and has ushered in the emergence of many new musical genres—including jazz, swing, bebop, R&B, gospel, blues, soul, and hip-hop. Among the countless legendary performers who launched their careers at The Apollo are Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Luther Vandross, H.E.R. D’Angelo, Lauryn Hill, Jazmine Sullivan, Machine Gun Kelly, and Miri Ben Ari; and The Apollo’s forward-looking artistic vision continues to build on this legacy. For more information about The Apollo, visitwww.ApolloTheater.org.
A Taste of NYFW in the Heart of White Plains
Get ready, Westchester—fashion is taking center stage this spring!
On May 15, 2025, Greca Estiatorio in downtown White Plains will be transformed into a runway oasis for EPN Fashion Week’s Westchester Spring Fashion Extravaganza—an evening of couture, cuisine, and community that promises all the magic of New York Fashion Week, with a uniquely local flair.
✨ Where Fashion Meets Philanthropy
From the moment you step onto the red carpet at 6:00 pm, you’ll be swept into a dazzling night that celebrates style, sophistication, and giving back. The fashion show begins at 6:30 pm, featuring the incredible collections of three renowned NYFW designers along with highlights from the beloved Buy the Runway Boutique.
Whether you’re a style aficionado, a budding entrepreneur, or just someone who loves a glamorous night out, this is theplace to be.
🍸 What to Expect:
- A chic welcome drink to set the mood
- A captivating fashion show showcasing fresh spring styles
- Mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres prepared by Greca’s acclaimed culinary team
- Plenty of networking opportunities with fellow fashion lovers, creatives, and influencers
- A chance to support a powerful philanthropic mission—raising funds and awareness for children in need
🌟 The Venue: Greca Estiatorio
Tucked into the heart of White Plains, Greca Estiatorio evokes the beauty and warmth of the Greek Isles, just steps from the city’s iconic Renaissance Fountain. With its inviting ambiance, modern Mediterranean charm, and next-level cuisine, Greca sets the perfect scene for this unforgettable evening.
Complimentary valet parking will be available across the street at The Opus Hotel and Ritz Carlton Residences, so you can arrive in effortless style.
🎟️ Buy your tickets today before this stylish event sells out!
👉 Click here to purchase
Dress to impress—this is a night of elevated fashion, sparkling connections, and meaningful impact. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this incredible evening where runway glamour meets real-world purpose.
Mark your calendars, grab your most stylish plus-one, and get ready for a night that’s sure to be the talk of the season.
Leaving New York doesn’t mean giving up the lifestyle you’ve worked hard to build. In fact, for many, it marks the beginning of a more balanced, spacious, and fulfilling chapter. Increasingly, New Yorkers are making the move across the border into Connecticut—and discovering that it offers a rare combination of financial benefits, exceptional schools, efficient commutes, and a lifestyle that blends sophistication with a true sense of calm.
Here’s a closer look at why this shift is more than a trend—it’s a smart, strategic move.
Tax Advantages: A Meaningful Shift in Your Bottom Line
Let’s start with what many consider the most compelling reason: taxes. In New York City, residents face a significant financial burden—up to 10.9% in state income tax and an additional 3.876% in city tax, totaling over 14% for top earners.
By contrast, Connecticut’s state income tax caps at 6.99%, and the state imposes no local or city income taxes. That’s not just a difference—it’s a game-changer. For many families and individuals relocating from NYC to towns like Greenwich, the savings are substantial. In a world where high-net-worth individuals are increasingly mindful of how and where their money moves, this shift makes financial—and lifestyle—sense.
The Commute: City Access, Suburban Ease
A common misconception about leaving the city is that you’re sacrificing convenience. But Fairfield County, and Greenwich in particular, was practically designed for the modern commuter. With Metro-North’s New Haven Line, you can reach Grand Central Terminal in under an hour, often faster than commuting from within the five boroughs.
Take Greenwich:
- Express trains to Manhattan in under 50 minutes.
- Multiple stations—Cos Cob, Riverside, Old Greenwich, and downtown Greenwich—offer neighborhood-level access and flexibility.
In short, you can still be part of the city’s rhythm, without the congestion, sirens, or sidewalk gridlock.
Greenwich: One Town, Many Lifestyles
What truly sets Greenwich apart is its diversity—not just in people, but in its neighborhoods. Each of its four distinct hamlets offers its own lifestyle, aesthetic, and community feel (each has its own elementary schools, library, post office, and even train station!).
- Old Greenwich: A picturesque seaside village with a small-town feel, ideal for beach lovers and families seeking walkable charm. Home to the beloved Tod’s Point Beach, parks, playgrounds, and classic colonial homes.
- Riverside: Known for quiet, tree-lined streets, exceptional public schools, and a strong sense of community. A favorite for those prioritizing space and waterfront access.
- Cos Cob: Artistic and eclectic, with historic charm and a mix of architectural styles. Offers a vibrant yet laid-back environment with great train access and a growing foodie scene.
- Downtown Greenwich (Central Greenwich): For those not quite ready to say goodbye to the energy of the city. Walkable, sophisticated, and rich in culture with fine dining, upscale shopping on the Avenue, dockside restaurants, and the world-class Bruce Museum. It’s cosmopolitan living with a coastal twist.
Whether you’re looking for a pied-à-terre, a weekend escape, or your forever family home, Greenwich offers a version of luxury living that aligns with every stage of life (and price point).
Education: Top-Tier, Public and Private
For families making the move, Connecticut’s academic reputation is a major draw. Public school systems in Greenwich, Darien, Westport, and New Canaan are consistently ranked among the best in the state—and in the country.
In Greenwich, students benefit from:
- High-performing public schools with excellent college placement records.
- A broad range of extracurricular offerings and academic tracks.
- Access to top-tier private schools such as Brunswick, Greenwich Academy, Sacred Heart, Greenwich Country Day, Greens Farms Academy, and King School, all known for academic rigor, exceptional arts and athletics programs, and world-class college counseling.
For many, this move is not just about property—it’s about investing in their children’s future.
Quality of Life: Manhattan Proximity, New England Peace
There’s something to be said for waking up to birdsong instead of car horns. Life in Greenwich offers a serene contrast to the city, without sacrificing the excitement or convenience of urban living.
Imagine this:
- Weekend farmers’ markets.
- Coastal walks.
- Tree-lined streets.
- Seasonal festivals and community events.
- All while keeping Broadway, Wall Street, and world-class dining within reach.
Greenwich is the rare kind of place where you can slow down without stepping back.
Final Word: Julie Knows Where to Go
If you’re considering making the move from New York to Connecticut, particularly to Greenwich, let someone who has helped countless clients make that exact transition guide the way.
With over 25 years of local experience, deep ties to the community, and an eye for both luxury and lifestyle, Julie Grace Burke brings more than just market knowledge—she brings strategy, perspective, and results.
Whether you’re in search of tax relief, better schools, more space, or a new chapter altogether, Julie knows how to help you cross the border with confidence—and land exactly where you belong.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to spoil Mom this Mother’s Day, LOLA New York has just the thing—and it comes with a little bonus love.
From now until May 10th, LOLA is offering an exclusive gift card promotion that’s all about giving more. When you purchase a $100 gift card, you’ll receive $120 in value. That’s right—an extra $20 to spend on LOLA’s chic, curated selection of fashion, accessories, and lifestyle must-haves.
Because really—Mom deserves a little extra.
Whether she’s eyeing a new bag, some effortless everyday jewelry, or that perfect spring top, this is a sweet and stylish way to let her pick something she’ll truly love. And if you’re shopping for yourself (no shame—some of us are the mom!), this offer makes treating yourself even better.
Here’s how it works:
- For every $100 gift card you buy, you’ll get an additional $20.
- You can opt to receive the $120 as a single gift card or split it into two separate cards—whatever works best.
- After you complete your online purchase, your bonus $20 e-gift card will be emailed to you promptly.
Just head over to LOLANY.com to shop the offer while it lasts.
So don’t wait—this limited-time deal ends on May 10th, just in time to make Mother’s Day gifting feel even more special. Flowers fade, but a beautiful piece from LOLA? That’s a gift she’ll wear and remember.
If you’re someone who appreciates art that feels joyful, vibrant, and full of personality, then The Hunt Pop Up Shop is your next must-visit destination. This brilliantly curated shopping experience captures the charm and magic of Hunt Slonem’s iconic works—those instantly recognizable bunnies, butterflies, birds, and botanicals—and transforms them into collectible pieces and luxury home accents.
🖌️ Meet the Artist: Hunt Slonem
Hunt Slonem is a celebrated contemporary artist whose playful, neo-expressionist style has captivated collectors and creatives for decades. Known for his exuberant use of color, pattern repetition, and whimsical subject matter, Slonem’s work manages to be both sophisticated and delightfully imaginative. He has a flair for breathing life into the ordinary—turning simple imagery into timeless visual statements.
🛍️ Step Inside The Shop
The Hunt Pop Up Shop is like walking into a three-dimensional extension of Slonem’s canvas. Think high-end home goods that carry his signature touch: jewel-toned hues, gold detailing, and of course, those sweetly painted hares and fluttering butterflies. Everything—from tabletop treasures to bedroom linens—feels like a curated art moment you can live in.
✨ What You’ll Find
Tabletop Treasures
Porcelain plates, bowls, and serving trays adorned with Slonem’s signature bunnies and finished with hand-painted gold rims. They’re perfect for elevating your dinner parties or just making your morning toast feel a bit more inspired.
Luxe Linens and Textiles
Velvet and silk pillows, intricately embroidered napkins, and throws that beg to be touched—all showcasing those charming motifs and lush color palettes.
Accessories With Flair
Aprons, coasters, lacquer boxes, and tote bags round out the collection, making it easy to incorporate a little Slonem magic into your everyday routine.
💡 Why It’s Special
What makes The Hunt Pop Up Shop so appealing is the way it blends fine art with functional design. Each piece feels intentional, and you can sense Slonem’s personality woven into every detail. Whether you’re hunting for a statement piece or a gift for someone who appreciates art and interiors, this shop offers a truly unique way to bring beauty into daily life.
Whether you’re already a longtime fan or just discovering Hunt Slonem for the first time, the Pop Up Shop is a joyful celebration of his vision—full of color, texture, and a little bit of magic. Click HERE to start shopping!!!!
