Name: Lia Masciulli
Where do you live? Montclair
When did you move there? I’ve been living in this beautiful town for almost ten years.
Where did you grow up? In a very quiet, woodsy town about 40 minutes north of Montclair.
How do you make a living? OR What is your everyday passion?
I own wel•lam, a private Pilates studio in town where I teach both virtually and in-person. I support adults and teen girls on their wellness journey, beginning them on their path to build a supportive wellness practice that they can dedicate themselves to. I also mentor Pilates students on their journey to becoming instructors, educate fellow teachers to deepen their knowledge and skill set, and am a certified Yoga Therapist.
Coffee, tea or … ?
I love a latte (even a decaf latte). I haven’t had caffeine for months! In the afternoons, I usually opt for either my throat coat tea or my cumin, coriander, fennel tea.
What’s your idea of a perfect weekend day?
If I’m not working, I love to sleep in a little bit, move my body, meditate, grab breakfast in town, and then get lunch with friends or spend time with my godchildren or my family. Sundays are my “me time,” which always includes movement and meditation, followed by getting ready for the week ahead. Depending on the season, I love spending time with my friends at the beach, celebrating the holidays, or having girl’s night (whether that be cozying up at home or heading out to dinner at one of our go-to restaurants).
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
There are so many choices, which is one thing I love about where I live! For Italian, I’ve cherished many meals and memories at La Rocca. For a quaint lunch, Café Giotto is one of my favorites — the spinach salad is so good! I also love the food, vibe, and atmosphere at Faubourg. Le Salbuen is one of my top choices for brunch! You can usually find me at Mercado weekly (can you tell I enjoy amazing food?!). The best latte I’ve had in town was from Paper Plane Coffee Co. I also have to mention that I treat my Pilates teacher training students to fresh doughnuts from Montclair Bread Co.— they’re an all around favorite!
What’s on your nightstand?
I like to keep it clean and simple: a photo of my grandmother, my cousin and I, my beauty balm to use before bed, a little jewelry stand for my bracelets, watch, and crystals, and finally, my journal and a lamp.
What are you listening to?
I will keep this answer short because some of you reading this may already know I love music. My current playlist is one that I made for a Pilates & Yoga retreat that I led in August— it warms my heart every time I put it on. (I’ll be leading another Pilates & Yoga retreat soon!). I’m also very into the Smartless podcast because sometimes you need a little laughter, and it has brought me so much joy since I found it.
What are your current indulgences?
Other than the doughnuts from Montclair Bread Co., my indulgences include stocking my closet with yoga and Pilates leggings and spending time with my friends and my godchildren any chance I get.
What talent you would most like to have?
I’d love to be a good tennis player like my grandmother. I’ve actually just picked up playing again and am taking lessons, so I’m excited to see how I progress!
What’s the worst-kept (or best-kept!) secret about Montclair?
Well, I’m not sure I’d consider this a secret, but my favorite little spot in town is the Van Vleck Gardens. I walk around the grounds regularly—they’re absolutely stunning!
If your friends were to describe you in just a few words, what would they say?
My friends would describe me as genuinely compassionate, kind to everyone, endlessly loyal to those I love, and always caring.