News — asbury new jersey

Colleen Mauer, the creative force behind Colleen Mauer Designs (CMD), has built a women-owned and operated handcrafted jewelry brand that seeks to unite customers with their perfect pieces. Colleen brings innovation, inspiration, and love to her jewelry. We sat down with her to learn more about her connection to the ocean, how she builds relationships with customers and the community, and how she stays sane while running a business.

In 2012, after Hurricane Sandy devastated Lauren Brajer’s home in Manahawkin, New Jersey, she relocated to Ocean Grove and began volunteering with Surfrider Foundation, updating their website and managing social media. Her dedication led to a Vice Chair position a few weeks later, and she has served as their Jersey Shore Chapter Chair since 2022. We sat down with Lauren to learn more about Surfrider’s Jersey Shore efforts, what inspired her love of the ocean, and how she works sustainable practices into her everyday life.

Patriae founder, Barbara ‘Babs’ Pisch turned a side hustle making antique tote bags and a passion for preserving the past into one of Asbury’s most unique and beloved retail boutiques. We sat down with Barbara to learn more about her love of textiles, her journey as an entrepreneur, and the 2 things she can’t live without.  

As a nationally recognized chef, author, restauranteur, philanthropist and sustainability champion, Marilyn Schlossbach has launched multiple businesses over the last 30 years: from beachfront eateries to local non-for-profits, all rooted in sustainability, community, and giving back. We asked Marilyn what inspired her to go from restaurants to beauty, and a few of the lessons she’s learned along the way.