The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1347392
A s a born and raised Floridian, I never received much guidance on how to properly shovel snow. This became apparent over the last few months as we experienced the snowiest winter in New Jersey history (or at least to me). Did I put down way too much salt on my porch and front steps? Perhaps, but I avoided any slippery situations. I'm also extremely grateful to have a neighbor with a snowblower and a love to use it! I think we are all very excited about Spring, which has quickly become my favorite season. There's something special about seeing the transformation occur, essentially a brightening of our world. It also seems our homes take on a new role as well as if they're capturing the outside forces to rejuvenate us. This is the foundation of the issue you hold in your hands. Welcome to our Spring Issue of VUE, which also serves as our "Real Estate & Design Issue." Design can be a difficult word to define, it's much more than making something look attractive. Now more than ever design is about usability, and it sets the entire tone for how we feel about something. It's why we feel a certain way when we walk into our favorite store to shop. Of course, we all want our products to work. We also want to feel happy while using them. To say this was a labor of love would be an understatement. You may even notice this issue is a little heavier, but we needed the extra real estate! We've been working since the new year with the top designers, realtors, architects and furniture creators to bring to life our favorite stories. These stories are what inspire us both visually and creatively and they provide a meaningful purpose. We've worked hard to get you ready for Spring (and the Summer to follow)! We've dedicated an entire section to outdoor living, setting you up for the perfect outdoor oasis. From world-class landscaping to outdoor kitchens to inflatable loungers and pools, we hope you enjoy what has turned our heads in amazement. For me personally, home has always been associated with family. I moved around quite a bit and never had that particular attachment to a certain place as "home." To me, home is where my family and friends are. It's where I can be 100% authentically myself. It's been exactly one year since we were all told to "stay at home." I can't help but think of the great paradox, as we want to get out to get some fresh air and go somewhere. Anywhere! However, once we are out we start to think about getting back to the safety of home. Our focus in this issue is to take you on the inside, beyond the wood and the bricks, to understand the story and inspiration behind it. If the home is where the heart is, we were looking for the heartbeat. We truly hope you enjoy this issue, and a very special thank you to everyone who contributed and helped bring this together. I wish you a very happy and bright Spring! Brian Kovener Co-Founder Brian@vuenj.com A Note From the Co-Founder V U E N J .C O M 32