Passionate about natural living and how it pertains to the local farm to table movement, Pennsy was co-creator/co-manager of Pen & Jen’s Tea Bar in Maplewood, New Jersey, a unique concept in healthy imbibing and creative environments. Known for its fine, innovative recipes ranging from baked goods and tea infusions to lighter fare, the restaurant was also a venue for local and national artists. Pennsy often planned and orchestrated special events, including a backstage feast for the Rainforest Foundation concert featuring Elton John, Billy Joel and India Ari and a special tearoom for the New York City Grammy party at Jay Z’s club, 40/40.

Along with her creative efforts, Pennsy co-managed the gift business and marketing for the tea bar, often collaborating with artists to create special restaurant-logo T-shirts. She was responsible for training and managing an employee base of over fifteen part-time workers while designing and overseeing penandjens.com, the online retail outlet for the shop.