Meet Our River Vale Town Specialist

Jessica Sims moved to River Vale from Manhattan’s Upper East Side in October of 2019 with her husband and 16 month old son. The decision to leave NYC and all that it had to offer was hard, but when they learned they were expecting baby #2  they realized they needed more space and wanted a backyard and a basement for the kids to play in. Since Jessica had been reverse commuting to Bergen County for many years, it was a no brainer that they would settle nearby.

It’s been almost 4 years since her family moved. Jessica now has a son about to start Kindergarten and a 3 year old daughter. She has become extremely involved in her community from participating in her town’s First Friends playgroup to becoming a Parent Connector for the JCC of Bergen County planning playdates and meetups for parents and children in the Pascack Valley. One of the best things about River Vale is that its filled with NYC transplants. The town has many sports and activities for children, starting as soon as they can walk. River Vale has a small town center complete with several restaurants, pizzerias, drug stores and hair/nail salons. 

Jessica is a special education teacher and in her spare time works as a Camp Specialist connecting children to day camps, sleep away camps, specialty camps and travel programs.  She loves getting to know families and matching them with camps that fit their needs.  Sleep away camp was a magical place for Jessica and she loves seeing others find their special place. Jessica’s services as a camp specialist are 100% free of charge. She can be found on facebook at CampSpecialist Jessica or on instagram at campfires_and_cabins. 

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Laura Deutsch is a realtor who specializes in helping people relocate from the city to the suburbs of New Jersey.   Laura took the plunge herself from city to suburban living (not easy!) and is passionate about helping others do the same without all of the stress.  Finding the right town to call home is just as important as finding the perfect house, and that’s why Laura’s tailored approach ensures that you not only love your home, but also your new community.

  • Contact Laura if you’re in search of a realtor who takes a personalized approach to finding the perfect home and community for you.
  • Join Laura’s informational facebook group, Moving to the NJ Suburbs, to join like minded individuals also looking to move to the NJ Suburbs.
  • Follow Laura on Instagram for more insights & tips on everything moving to the NJ suburbs.  

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Join us for a Mom’s Mix & Mingle at The Summit House in Summit, NJ for moms who want to meet other moms and make new friends!

Calling All Moms Looking to Connect!

Back by popular demand, join us for the fourth annual Moms Night Out at The Summit House! Expect amazing food, flowing wine, and great conversation with other local moms. Whether you’re new to the area or simply looking to expand your circle, this is the perfect chance to meet new friends and build community. Come solo or bring a friend – you’ll feel right at home either way.

Space is limited, so grab your ticket before it sells out!
Questions? Reach out to lauradeutschnj@gmail.com

Event Details:
Tuesday, June 16 , 7:00–9:00 PM
Summit House, 395 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ
Ticket includes delicious flowing wine, dinner, & dessert

Laura isn’t just a top realtor in the Summit area – she’s a community builder who’s passionate about connecting people through awesome, intentional events

Register here

Join us for a special morning in Madison for local families, featuring a beautifully designed sensory and pretend play experience by the team at Sunshine Social.

Known for their interactive birthday party setups, Sunshine Social will be bringing hands-on play stations, dress-up, and imaginative activities right to the park, designed to keep little ones engaged while parents can relax and connect.

And of course, coffee will be served! ☕️

If we haven’t met yet, I’m Laura Deutsch, a local realtor at Keller Williams who loves bringing families together and building community. You can learn more about me on my website or Instagram. 

Event Details:

  • Sunday, May 3rd 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
  • Madison (exact location will be shared with registered guests a few days before the event)
  • $10 suggested donation to Moms Helping Moms Foundation’
  • Save your spot

Space is limited.

See you there!

~Laura

Register here

Looking for a fun way for your kids to burn off some energy? I’m hosting an open play at Zumbini with Allie and would love for you to join us!

Kids will be able to explore, dance, create, and play in a safe and welcoming space while enjoying Zumbini’s play areas designed for active play, creativity, and social interaction. From imaginative play stations to movement based activities, there will be plenty for little ones to enjoy.

It’s also a great chance to meet other local parents while your babies and toddlers are busy playing.

Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, March 25, 10:00 – 11:00 AM
  • Place: Zumbini with Allie, 200 South St, New Providence, NJ
  • Cost:  $10
Register here

A lot of homeowners feel stuck right now.

They want more space, a different layout, or a home that fits their life today, but their current mortgage rate makes moving feel impossible.

This webinar is for families who feel rate locked and unsure what options actually exist in a sellers market. The conversation will break down what’s real, what’s not, and what people often assume without ever running the numbers.

Laura Deutsch will host a guided conversation and be joined by a trusted partner and lending professional to walk through real life scenarios, answer common questions, and explain how different strategies can impact monthly payments.

Topics covered:

  • Why a higher rate does not always mean a dramatically higher monthly payment
  • How equity, timing, and loan structure can change the math
  • When tools like temporary rate buydowns make sense and when they don’t
  • What realistic short term and long term strategies look like for families considering a move

This is not about convincing anyone to move. It’s about clarity.

If you’ve been thinking “we’re stuck” but haven’t actually looked at real numbers and real scenarios, this webinar will help you understand what’s possible so you can make informed decisions, not emotional ones.

You’ll leave knowing

  • Whether moving now is a hard no, a maybe, or more doable than you thought.
  • What questions you should be asking before ruling anything out.
  • What a smart next step would be for your situation.

Can’t attend in real time? Register to receive the full recording after the event. 

📅  Date:  Sunday, January 25th, 8:00 – 9:00 PM
📍 Place:  Online (link to webinar will be sent a few days prior)

Register here

Ready to make the move to your dream home in the next 12 months? Whether you’re just starting to think about it or actively searching, understanding the process is key to feeling confident and in control.

Join me for a live webinar where I’ll break down everything you need to know about buying a home, including:

  • The full home-buying process, from pre approval to closing
  • Key steps like inspections, appraisals, and the final walkthrough
  • Strategies to craft competitive offers that stand out in a hot market
  • A clear timeline of the process so you can plan your next steps with confidence


Can’t make it live? No problem! Be sure to sign up to receive the recording.

This webinar is designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. By the end, you’ll feel educated, prepared, and ready to take the next steps toward homeownership!

There will also be time for a live Q&A, so bring your questions!

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, February 22, 8:00 – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Online

Register here
Register here

Gather with us for a fabulous afternoon luncheon! Socialize and connect with other awesome moms in the area while savoring a delicious meal at the charming Piattino in Summit. And of course, no luncheon is complete without a yummy mimosa to add a sparkling touch to the occasion!

Be sure to get a sitter. This is a special time for moms to relax and enjoy, so babies/toddlers should stay home. (Newborns welcome.)

This is the perfect opportunity to meet other moms and connect with new people in the community.

Come alone or bring a friend!

This event is hosted by Laura Deutsch, Realtor®.  Laura is not only a top realtor, she is a connector who loves bringing her community together by creating awesome events!  Real estate agents and/or mortgage brokers will not be permitted. Thank you for your understanding.

Details

  • Tuesday, August 8, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Piattino, 67 Union Place, Summit, NJ
Register here

Join us for a Mom’s Mix & Mingle at Piattino in Summit, NJ for moms who want to meet other moms and make new friends!

You can expect:

  • Scrumptious food!
  • Flowing wine!
  • Great conversation!  

This is the perfect opportunity to meet other moms and connect with new people in the community.

Come alone or bring a friend!

🛍️ The first 20 people to sign up will receive a gift courtesy of 🛍️

Space is limited so be sure to get your tickets before they sell out!

This event is hosted by Laura Deutsch, Realtor®.  Laura is not only a top realtor, she is a connector who loves bringing her community together by creating awesome events!  Real estate agents and/or mortgage brokers will not be permitted. Thank you for your understanding.

Details

  • Tuesday, October 24, 6:30-8:30
  • Piattino, 67 Union Place, Summit, NJ
Register here

🍷Calling All Moms Who Want To Meet Other Moms And Make New Friends!🍷
Join us at the Summit House for a moms night out! You can expect incredible food, flowing wine, and great conversation! This is the perfect opportunity to meet other moms and connect with new people in the local community. Come alone or bring a friend!

Space is limited so be sure to get your tickets before they sell out! Please email laura.deutsch@sothebysrealty.com if you have any questions.

* Please note: this is a private event by Laura Deutsch, a real estate agent in the local Summit area and we kindly ask that other real estate agents and mortgage lenders refrain from attending.


Details:

🍷 Tuesday, June 11, 7:00 – 8:30 PM

🍷 Summit House, 395 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ

🍷 Scrumptious food and flowing wine included in ticket cost.

Register here

Looking to connect and have fun with other moms?  Join us at a Playground Playdate! These free, laid-back gatherings are the perfect way for moms (dad’s too!), babies, toddlers, and kids to enjoy some outdoor fun and make new friends at local playgrounds.

Each playdate features:

  • A different park
  • A talented photographer capturing candid moments
  • Tasty snacks for all to enjoy


Registration is required – sign up for as many as you’d like!

Register here

Ready to make the move to your dream home in the next 12 months? Whether you’re just starting to think about it or actively searching, understanding the process is key to feeling confident and in control.

Join me for a live webinar where I’ll break down everything you need to know about buying a home, including:

  • The full home-buying process, from pre approval to closing
  • Key steps like inspections, appraisals, and the final walkthrough
  • Strategies to craft competitive offers that stand out in a hot market
  • A clear timeline of the process so you can plan your next steps with confidence

Can’t make it live? No problem! Be sure to sign up to receive the recording.

This webinar is designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. By the end, you’ll feel educated, prepared, and ready to take the next steps toward homeownership!

There will also be time for a live Q&A, so bring your questions!

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, March 16, 7-8 PM
📍 Location: Online

Register here

Spring Mini Photoshoots

Looking to do a beautiful family photoshoot without the stress of a full-on shoot? I’ve teamed up with the incredibly talented Jillian Spencer Photography to offer mini photoshoots exclusively for Suburban Scoop followers!

Date: Saturday, May 17, 3:30 – 5:30 PM
Rain Date: Sunday, May 18
Location: Loantaka Park, Morristown
Cost: $129
Session Length: 15 minutes 

Package includes 3 edited images if booked by May 1st (2 after), with the option to purchase more.

Spots are extremely limited and a great value for high-quality, professional photography – perfect for busy families who want something quick, relaxed, and totally frame-worthy.

Register here

Calling All Moms Looking to Connect!

Back by popular demand, join us for the third annual Moms Night Out at The Summit House! Expect amazing food, flowing wine, and great conversation with other local moms. Whether you’re new to the area or simply looking to expand your circle, this is the perfect chance to meet new friends and build community. Come solo or bring a friend—you’ll feel right at home either way.

Space is limited, so grab your ticket before it sells out!
Questions? Reach out to lauradeutschnj@gmail.com

Please note: This is a private, social event hosted by Laura Deutsch, a local realtor and mom who loves bringing people together. While all moms are welcome, this is not intended to be a business networking opportunity. We kindly ask that attendees come to connect socially, not to promote their services. Thank you!

Event Details:
Tuesday, June 17 , 7:00–9:00 PM
Summit House, 395 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ
Ticket includes delicious flowing wine, dinner, & dessert

Laura isn’t just a top realtor in the Summit area – she’s a community builder who’s passionate about connecting people through awesome, intentional events

Register here

A Real Estate Opportunity On Your Own Terms

Join me on Thursday, October 16th for an informative webinar where I’ll introduce a unique side hustle within the real estate world. It’s something you can start slowly now, fit around your current schedule, and later scale into something bigger if and when the timing is right.

(And FYI- you don’t have to work full time to do this and it’s not about flipping homes!)

This opportunity is designed to be flexible, simple to begin, and full of earning potential. You’ll be working directly with me, and I’ll guide you every step of the way so you never feel like you’re figuring it out alone.

This could be a great fit if one or more of the following resonate with you:

✅ Like the idea of passive income in real estate without becoming a full-time agent

✅ Are well connected in your community and/or or know a lot of people
✅ Are active on social media (or open to starting)
✅ Want a side hustle that can stay small or grow bigger depending on your goals

✅ Have an interest in real estate

There’s minimal upfront cost, no pressure to go all in (unless you choose to), and plenty of potential to turn your strengths into income.

If you’ve been looking for a flexible side hustle that can grow with you, this is your chance to see how real estate can open the door.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, October 16th 8:00 – 9:00 PM

Place: Online (Link will be provided upon registration)

Cost: Free

RSVP: Register button above to the right

Register here

Looking to connect and have fun with other moms? Join us at one or both of our Playground Playdates! These free, laid-back gatherings are the perfect way for moms (dad’s too!), babies, toddlers, and kids to enjoy some outdoor fun and make new friends at local playgrounds.

Dates:

Sunday, October 12, 9:30 AM (Berkeley Heights)

Sunday, November 2, 3:00 (Chatham)

Addresses of playgrounds will be provided a week prior to the event.

Registration is required.

Register here

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