Style & Shopping Archives | New Jersey Monthly: Recent Episodes
Style & Shopping Archives | New Jersey Monthly
Ask anyone this side of the Hudson and they’ll tell you where the “New York” Giants and Jets actually play—East Rutherford, of course. And there’s one store with merch that honors MetLife Stadium properly. Mike Spitz, or Mr. Throwback as he’s known to his 175,000 Instagram followers, expertly digs through the racks of his cozy 700-square-foot East Village shop to find the exact vintage sweatshirt he has in mind.
“Oh, here it is. Boom. Oh, my God. ‘Play it in New Jersey,’” Spitz says, reading the shirt aloud and pointing out Giants players from the ‘80s—Carl Banks, Phil Simms, Mark Bavaro and O.J. Anderson—pictured on it. “Now that is a winner. Yeah, that’s crazy. Somebody’s got to scoop that up.”
The $150 shirt, which not only features the state’s name in all-caps but the shape of New Jersey surrounded by the words “real home of the pros,” is just one of the many authentic retro treasures Spitz is known for sourcing. Another find Jersey fans will appreciate? A Devils sweater from 1982—also costing $150—featuring the original red and green colorway, just waiting for someone’s next Christmas party.
While his store is on East 9th Street in New York City and he hails from Bellmore, Long Island, Spitz is now a proud Fair Lawn resident with deep Jersey roots.
’80s Giants Carl Banks, Phil Simms, Mark Bavaro and O.J. Anderson are featured on this vintage find ($150). Courtesy of Mr. ThrowbackJerseys from when the Nets played in New Jersey. Courtesy of Mr. ThrowbackMr. Throwback shows this Devils sweater ($150) featuring the original red and green colorway.Courtesy of Mr. Throwback“I married a Jersey girl in 2014, and I met Alyssa in 2010. So, technically, I’ve been a Jersey boy for 16 years,” Spitz says. “I mean, my dad grew up in Jersey, my aunt, and now I live in that current town. So I’ve been a Jersey boy, I guess, technically, my whole life.”
New Jerseyans are proud to claim him. He gets recognized everywhere from school dropoff to the Garden State Plaza mall to the town’s Memorial Pool.
“There was one (guy), I met him at the bagel place. ‘You Mr. Throwback?’ ‘Yeah.’ ‘Oh, come look in my car,’ and he had these folders from the NBA from the ‘90s. He’s like, ‘Take them, put them in your store, and try to sell them,’” he says, adding with a chuckle: “I’m like a Z-list celebrity. I love it.”
This summer was inarguably all about the Knicks. And, oh, how Mr. Throwback capitalized on it.
“Our Super Bowl,” social media manager Jay Garcia shouts from behind the register.
Trending Story
The 50 Best Restaurants in New Jersey“We literally sold out of every vintage piece and that’s why we had to make the bootlegs because that’s the only thing we could get,” Spitz shares, referring to the viral (and now sold-out) Mr. Throwback Knicks gear that had a cult-like following during the playoffs and finals—T-shirts with prints like “Alien vs. Brunson,” pencil sketches of Knicks logos through the years, and a picture of the Knicks starting five in a movie-poster-like design, to name a few. They went for $60-$80 each.
“We had the most traffic we’ve ever had in 14 years. We had lines. I mean, at one point there were probably 50 or 60 people just rolling (down the block). Jay was here in the front, just typing. He was like, sold, sold, sold. I’m in the back, like, small, medium, large,” he says, miming his arms quickly throwing out shirts to eager fans.
He estimates he sold about 200 T-shirts a day throughout the finals series when the Knicks faced the Spurs.
“It was crazy. It was like printing money. Every night I was at the printer until 4 in the morning. I went to bed at 6 am. I woke up at 8 with my son and went to school, and then we came here, and we were just cranking. And it was unreal.”
Related Stories * 1 Knicks’ Finals Squad Fueled by New Jersey Natives * 2 NJ’s Own Look to Make Their Mark in America’s New Women’s Baseball League * 3 Mud Dredged From a Hidden South Jersey Spot Is Baseball’s Secret Weapon
Think of a Knicks fan, and they’ve probably shopped at Mr. Throwback, including big stars like Spike Lee, Timothee Chalamet, Jersey’s own Nick Jonas … and even Knicks players themselves.
“Tyler Kolek came in the night before the parade, and I met with him the morning of at 7:45, and I brought him a T-shirt. The T-shirt that I have was from 1993 and it said ‘Knicks World Championship,’ but the Knicks never won in ‘93. They lost to the Bulls. They didn’t even make the championship, but he wore that.”
Spitz is gearing up for football season now. If you’re tailgating at MetLife, be sure to look for Mr. Throwback doing his infamous “off the back” negotiations where he buys jerseys, hats, shirts, jackets, and more straight off the people wearing them. While talking about his “favorite thing,” he realizes he could offer them something to wear afterward.
“Jay, we need a T-shirt cannon. For ‘off the back,’ Giants and Jets. And then we’ll give them a shirt that says, ‘I’ve been off the back by Mr. Throwback.’ It’s a cool idea.”
The post NJ’s Mr. Throwback Sells the Coolest Vintage Sports Tees Around appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
When Adriana Carrig was a middle school student growing up in Essex County in the early 2000s, the bullying began. She didn’t fit in with the other girls. Her mother, trying to keep her grounded in “a sea of Juicy Couture,” bought her daughter’s clothes at downscale retailers like Kmart and Bradlees and didn’t let her shave her legs, Carrig says.
“I looked different,” she says. “I was called an alien and a spic.” (Carrig’s mother is Mexican.)
The harassment continued through high school, and at one point, the police had to get involved. “It was awful,” she says.
But these days, Carrig’s focus is on the positives that came from the pain. Her company, Little Words Project, sells friendship bracelets that use words to uplift rather than to hurt. “We wanted to inspire people with positive words because there’s plenty of negative words around us,” she says.
@njmonthly After experiencing bullying as a child, Essex County native Adriana Carrig founded @Little Words Project—a brand that sells friendship bracelets designed to uplift with positive words instead of hurtful ones. Since its launch in 2013, Little Words Project has sold more than 1 million bracelets. There are 11 stores around the country, including on Manhattan’s Bleecker Street; in Tampa, Nashville and Boston; at the Mall at Short Hills and Long Branch’s Pier Village in New Jersey; and even at Disney World. The bracelets are also sold at outlets in Mexico, Canada, and an online shop in England. Online, customers can buy premade bracelets with messages like “Worthy,” “Besties,” and “You are enough,” or create a custom bracelet. In the next few years, Carrig plans to add at least 10 stores, focusing on expanding the brand’s Bead Bars, where customers can string their own bracelets. Full story at link in bio. : Julia Martin : Natalie Chitwood #littlewordsproject #njmonthly #bracelet #beadedjewelry #fy
♬ hate that i made you love me – Ariana Grande
Since its launch in 2013, Little Words Project has sold more than 1 million bracelets. There are 11 stores around the country, including on Manhattan’s Bleecker Street; in Tampa, Nashville and Boston; at the Mall at Short Hills and Long Branch’s Pier Village in New Jersey; and even at Disney World. The bracelets are also sold at outlets in Mexico, Canada, and an online shop in England. Online, customers can buy premade bracelets with messages like “Worthy,” “Besties,” and “You are enough,” or create a custom bracelet.
In the next few years, Carrig plans to add at least 10 stores, focusing on expanding the brand’s Bead Bars, where customers can string their own bracelets. “That’s where retail is headed,” Carrig says. “We call it retail-tainment. You want an experience, to be entertained and connect with people through an activity.” The Bead Bar in Short Hills is a popular location for bachelorette and birthday parties.
Little Words Project’s bracelets have inspirational messages on them.Photo: Natalie ChitwoodLittle Words Project has high-level clients, too. At the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, where Taylor Swift tied the record for the most VMA wins of all time, NSYNC’s Lance Bass presented her with a stack of bracelets from Little Words. One said “Fearless,” another had the initials of Swift’s favorite NSYNC song: FTGWHE (“For the Girl Who Has Everything.”) “Everyone was so blown away,” Carrig says.
The idea of paying it forward is central to the Little Words brand. On the website, customers can enter the code printed on a small gold tag on their bracelet, along with their story. Once they’ve worn their bracelet for “as long as they need it,” Carrig says, they can pass it on to someone who might need it more, and follow the bracelet on its new journey. “Your bracelet becomes a vehicle of kindness that you can track as it moves from person to person,” she says.
Carrig runs the company with her husband, Bill, whom she met at the College of New Jersey (TCNJ). At first, he worked in private equity, supporting the family and helping out with the business, until he was needed full-time. The couple lives in Chatham and have a three-year-old and a five-year-old.
The idea for Little Words began at TCNJ, where Adriana, as recruitment chair of her sorority, hit on the idea of friendship bracelets as a way to keep the love circulating. “I would create the bracelets and give them to the girls to help them through difficult times, for luck before a test or love after a breakup. The bracelets really brought us closer together. That showed me what could be if we invited women from everywhere to be a part of this community of kindness.”
Photo: Natalie ChitwoodThe store at the Short Hills Mall is a particular point of pride for Carrig. “I grew up dealing with bullying [at school] and then, 15 years later, I got to open a store a few miles away. We had hundreds of people lined up waiting to meet us. I was blown away.
“It’s such a healing thing to walk in and see nine-year-old girls connecting, and reading quotes on the wall that say, ‘Be kind to yourself,’ ‘Be kind to one another,’” Carrig says. “Millennials are still our number one, but we’ve got this new crop of Gen Alphas that are starting to live and practice what we preach.
“Little Words has become this incredible movement of community that is connected through these little words on their wrists. When you see someone wearing one, you’re like, ‘Wait, is that Little Words Project?’ And you get this little sense of belonging.
“That’s all I ever wanted.”
The post Little Words Project Founder Turned Pain Into Power With Her Bracelet Brand appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Tess Hazen was born a creator. Growing up in upstate New York, she watched her parents transform rundown buildings into restaurants, bars and retail spaces. “It was in my blood from a young age,” she says. After college and a fast-paced foray into the fashion business, Hazen had that nagging urge to create something from nothing, just as her parents had done. In an enormous leap of faith, she and her new husband purchased a 19-room boarding house in Bay Head, a circa-1886 building a block from the beach in dire need of an overhaul, in 2021.
The couple lived in the Bentley Inn for two years, transforming it into a posh, boutique-vibe destination. Having mastered cleaning rooms and troubleshooting plumbing issues, Hazen wanted more. So she carved out a tiny space for a boutique in the lobby, curating a small collection of gift and home items, plus clothing. “I wasn’t sure about the clothing part,” Hazen admits, “but we sold it all in one Memorial Day weekend.” Clearly, she was onto something and realized the tiny space could be so much more.
In a kismet moment in 2025, Hazen learned of another historic building in need of a new tenant. She was hoping for a tiny piece of the massive space, but the landlords offered her the entire thing. On the precise day Hazen got the lease, she discovered she was pregnant. Already mom to son Vernon, who was less than a year old at the time, Hazen kicked into high gear. “I had to make it happen,” she laughs, “but yes, it was overwhelming.”
Photo: Courtesy of AugustHazen got to work planning, designing and buying for August, a clothing, jewelry and home boutique. The frenzy culminated in late March; the day of the soft opening, Hazen went into labor. Son Callum was born early the next morning.
Undeterred, Hazen carried on. August, named after her Portuguese water dog, carries a carefully curated collection of items no other local shop offers. “I’m super mindful of making this super different,” Hazen explains. She focuses on selecting clothing she’d wear and works diligently to keep prices affordable; most pieces run between $80 and $100. She says, “It’s a challenge to source that way, but who has the money to spend $500 on a shirt?” The Bentley Inn shop remains open, too.
The post This Bay Head Boutique Offers One-of-a-Kind Finds at Accessible Prices appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
At the heart of this boutique’s philosophy is the idea that wellness should feel approachable. The store’s owner, Kris Haas, focuses on simple practices that customers can incorporate into daily life. Haas, a former school teacher, was prompted to launch her wellness business during the pandemic, when many people, especially teachers, were feeling highly stressed, she says.
Botanica Boutique offers a range of products to help folks unwind and manage stress. For instance, the Hack Your Nervous System card deck is designed to help people regulate stress in real time. Each card offers an actionable technique to calm the body and mind, whether through breathing exercises, sensory grounding, movement or mindfulness prompts.
“It gives people something concrete they can actually do,” the shop owner explains. “Sometimes when people are stressed, they don’t know where to begin. These cards make wellness feel accessible.”
That same practical approach extends throughout the store’s carefully curated inventory. Shelves are filled with blank journals and guided notebooks intended to support self-reflection, emotional processing and mental clarity. Journaling, Haas says, can be a powerful antidote to spiraling thoughts and chronic stress. “Writing things down helps people slow their thinking and process what’s happening internally,” she says. “It creates space between you and your worries.”
Photo: Courtesy of Live Love Lens/Jamie MeierShe also stocks herbal remedies and natural wellness products that soothe the nervous system, including calming supplements such as California poppy (considered a mild sedative) and skullcap (an anti-anxiety herb), along with CBD products. A proprietary, handcrafted botanical tea line with targeted wellness objectives—like sleep, focus and calm—is also in the works. She’ll also soon provide dried herbs, and guidance for customers creating their own personalized blends.
What makes the store distinctive is the meticulous care behind every product selection. Haas personally tests and vets each item before it reaches the shelves, ensuring quality and authenticity. “I’m pretty particular,” she admits. “If you see something here, you know it’s a good product.”
Photo: Courtesy of Live Love Lens/Jamie MeierSupporting fellow independent makers is central to the business model. Whenever possible, the owner prioritizes sourcing from women-, BIPOC- and queer-owned businesses, creating a retail ecosystem rooted in community and inclusivity.
That sense of connection extends beyond the retail operation. The shop regularly hosts events designed to foster community, creativity and healing. Gatherings range from monthly tarot- and oracle-card reading nights to collaborative wellness experiences with other local entrepreneurs and practitioners.
“I love creating experiences where people feel seen and nurtured,” the owner says. “There’s magic in bringing people together.”
The post Former School Teacher’s South Orange Boutique Is Part Apothecary, Part Curiosity Shop appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
As a child, Jules Duffy painted. Later, even with a thriving interior design business, Duffy painted. “When my kids were migrating out of the house, I knew I had more time. I wanted something to fill that void,” she explains.
With her watercolor talent well honed, she decided to explore oil painting. She had a lot to learn and began taking classes and attending workshops. “I wanted to learn the proper way, the proper strokes, the proper methods,” she says. “I created a personal passion, not just a career passion.”
Duffy’s glossy notecards feature florals, marine scenes and Harbor Island, Bahamas—a favorite spot for inspiration. A set of five is $35. Photo: Laura MossDuffy’s work, now displayed in galleries and private collections, is inspired by color. As a sought-after interior designer, she’s known for splashes of saturated hues. “My love for color paved the way for my interior design career,” she says. And that career paved the way for her to explore painting with the same keen eye.
Duffy splits her time between Chatham and Bay Head. “I’m drawn to the water,” she explains. “Living at the Shore, I’m constantly inspired by the changing water and sky.” One of her favorite subjects: sailboats. Her husband, Lawrence, is a skilled sailor, and she often captures his likeness on the water. “Since I started painting, I look at the world through a completely different lens. It’s added so many meaningful layers to my life,” she says.
Duffy partnered with a high-end puzzle company to create these hand-cut wooden works: “They’re truly bespoke, heirloom pieces.” Photo: Laura MossDuffy’s original oil paintings can cost thousands of dollars. She also creates more affordable giclées—canvas prints of her work—that she enhances by hand. “I paint over the print so you can see the brush strokes. I make it an original. I’m constantly striving to take my art to the next level. It’s a lifetime of education,” she says.
“Painting is a journey, an adventure,” Duffy says. “You need to be willing to dive in and make mistakes. Trust me, there are a lot of paintings I’ve done that no one will ever see.”
For more on Duffy’s work, visit julesduffyfineart.com.
The post NJ Painter Jules Duffy Is ‘Constantly Inspired’ by Jersey Shore Scenery appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
It was late January, and the excitement was building among young women across the country. Valentine’s Day was approaching, and Parke—the wildly popular brand known primarily for its crewneck sweatshirts with the company’s name emblazoned across the front—was doing something it had never done before. Purple.
The previous spring and summer, many of Parke’s customers, who identify as much with the brand’s owner, Chelsea Parke Goles, as they do with its clothing, had been messaging the company on social media about how Parke had never made a sweatshirt in that color. So, to celebrate this year’s holiday of love and romance, Parke went purple. The line sold out quickly. And the connection between the company and its customers became stronger.
“I was seeing every girl I know posting on their personal Stories when the Valentine’s Day drop happened,” says Jessica Ricco, who grew up in River Vale and is a recent University of Georgia graduate. “They were upset when they didn’t get it. I never saw anything like it.”
For Goles, who grew up in New Vernon and started her eponymous brand in 2022, it was perfectly normal. Parke doesn’t use traditional advertising methods. It connects through messages, influencer videos and building relationships on social media, and uses pop-up stores that draw throngs of customers and monthly product line drops to generate excitement and demand.
“Our Valentine’s collection included purple only because people told us they wanted it,” says Goles, 29. “We wouldn’t have done it otherwise.”
At a time when people under 30 (particularly women) are looking for smaller brands that emphasize connection and are promoted by influencers and word of mouth, Parke has created a new paradigm. You can’t call the company, but you can message its team. And a team member will answer. Quickly. Engage on Instagram or TikTok, and you are likely to get some sort of response.
Goles wears Parke’s oversized denim jacket, $230. Photo: Madison Lane Photography“Smaller companies using social media like this have a better grasp of who their audience is and can bring them along for the ride in way big companies can’t,” says Dr. Kevin Lyons, a professor at Rutgers who teaches a course in supply chain management for the fashion industry.
Parke has more than 490,000 Instagram followers. Goles has 150,000. The direct-to-consumer model relies heavily on customer engagement and storytelling. Goles is as much the Parke brand as any item it sells; sweatshirts range from $125-$140. She uses social media to relate the challenges and successes on her entrepreneurial journey and has said “transparency is key.” If you have spent any time on a college campus, you can tell the model works.
“Oh, I’m a big fan,” says Addison Figel, a student Villanova from Belle Mead who has a number of Parke sweatshirts.
It’s a model larger companies just can’t replicate.
“Customers and followers want to feel like they know [Goles] and are engaged with her,” says MarySheila McDonald, the John J. Scarpa Professor of Entrepreneurship at Villanova. “They want to have a relationship.”
Parke may not adopt every idea its customers propose, but the growth in sales over the company’s almost four years in existence—$100,000 in 2022 to $16 million as of November 2025—demonstrates that the formula works well. It’s a perfect strategy for the post-pandemic period, when McDonald says direct to consumer marketing “has exploded.”
“When we started the brand, we were at a different stage of social media,” Goles says. “There weren’t that many brands connected to the community. That’s why it’s so valuable for Parke to get feedback from customers in real time. Without it, we wouldn’t be as successful. We connect with people every day. Our team is messaging back and forth every day.”
It would be great to say Goles has been designing outfits and counseling friends on fashion decisions since she was a girl, but that’s not the case. “When I was in middle school, I had a uniform for school,” she says. “On weekends, I played sports and rode horses. I didn’t have many clothes beyond school and sports and horses.”
The Heritage Varsity Mockneck Sweatshirt, $130. Photo: Courtesy of ParkeGoles graduated from Morristown Beard School in 2015 and went to Dickinson, where she played field hockey and majored in art studies. While there, her interest in fashion began to gather momentum, and in 2018, she studied in Florence for a semester. “I spent more time looking at fashion websites than listening to teachers,” she admits.
When Goles was 16, she met Kira Kramer, who was dating her brother Jackson and would eventually marry him. The two bonded quickly, and during one early 2020s summer in Loveladies, while each was working “jobs we weren’t obsessed with,” they spoke about someday starting a business together—although neither had an idea what that project would be. “We wanted to make it special and cool and make it a great environment for others,” Goles says.
“We talked about it as a dream,” Kramer adds.
During the pandemic, when Goles was working for a jewelry company after spending some time in the wholesale fashion business, she moved to Miami and started learning about the vintage denim business and particularly how the companies involved in it weren’t necessarily targeting women. She and Kramer decided that would be their joint project and connected with a wholesaler in Los Angeles who provided the denim that they turned into women’s jeans. The partnership succeeded “instantly,” says Goles. (Goles is creative director and CEO of Parke; Kramer is COO.)
But customers found two pairs of jeans that were the same size didn’t fit the same way, due to inconsistencies in the denim. So, in 2022, Parke pivoted to sweatshirts, which sold well right away. From there, Parke expanded to denim jeans, overalls, shorts, skirts, dresses and jackets—with only a small fraction of the content distressed. The clothes are manufactured overseas and warehoused in Middletown, Pennsylvania. With each new product and special-occasion launch, sales grew. So did customer loyalty, thanks to the quality of the apparel and the community Goles built.
“She seems to be very transparent,” says Mae Dolan of Old Tappan, a rising senior at Ohio State. “I follow her on Instagram, and she does Q&As and puts polls up. People type in what they want to see, and she really responds.”
The engagement goes beyond the products. When Chelsea married Nicholas Goles in September 2025, fans could track the event on social media. They could also see her “Dream Registry” on the Over the Moon website. On May 25, she announced the birth of their daughter, Willa; her Instagram post drew 84,000 likes in a day. By curating her life, she can create an aspirational model for young women.
“We now see more females in fashion,” Goles says. “Ten or 20 years ago, there were so many men running women’s wear brands.”
Goles can’t identify any one thing that has made the brand successful, although she says the team of 20 (not counting those in warehouse) works “really hard.” And there is a hometown component to the prosperity. “My Jersey roots have guided me,” Goles says. “I think a lot of entrepreneurs come from Jersey. It’s a great place.”
As the Parke community swells, Goles and the team will continue to create a culture built on engagement and quality products. That’s a good combination.
“We like where we are,” she says.
So do Parke’s legions of customers.
The post How Chelsea Parke Goles Built a Cult Sweatshirt Brand Gen Z Can’t Quit appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Artistry and intimate connection are imbued in each piece of fine jewelry crafted by designer Dorian Webb. Working in 14k and 18k gold, sterling silver and other metals, and often paired with precious or semiprecious stones, Webb mines her own sense of beauty and luxury for each design.
“My collections are driven by a desire to express concepts near to my heart,” says Webb. Her jeweled creations range from avant-garde statement pieces to infinitely wearable designs for everyday.
Photo: Courtesy of Dorian WebbStarting out, Webb took her cue from Venetian artists when, as a Yale college student, she took a trip to Italy. “I saw artisans who were not only the financial drivers, but the cultural keepers of their communities,” she says. That experience led her to pursue her art, despite not having financial means or contacts in the industry. Webb’s dedication paid off when Neiman Marcus scooped up one of her first collections.
Photo: Courtesy of Dorian WebbToday, the designer continues to mirror her early Venetian inspiration in two ways: using classic techniques and centering community in her work. Each piece begins with a sketch by hand, followed by traditional wax or CAD before casting in metal. Her favorite medium? “I love 18k gold. To me, it is the embodiment of luxury.”
Webb grew up in Pemberton, with the lush Pine Barrens virtually in her backyard. Nature offered creative inspiration, while a close-knit neighborhood fostered her sense of community. For her, community is both personal—drawn from her African American heritage—and universal, as reflected in nature.
Photo: Courtesy of Dorian WebbPhoto: Courtesy of Dorian WebbA new collection inspired by Harriet Tubman exemplifies Webb’s idea that “jewelry can be a connector, a storyteller and, ultimately, a builder of community.” When Webb learned Tubman was a highly skilled botanist, that fact spoke to “all the incredible daily feats we achieve, but often overlook,” she says, “and how the small feats enable larger ones. This story is one of the Black diaspora, but it is also one anyone can relate to.”
To see more, visit dorianwebb.com.
The post Jewelry Designer Dorian Webb Fuses the Avant-Garde With Wearability appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
All photos courtesy of the manufacturersCoordinated mommy-and-me outfits in baby-blue carnival stripes offer a playful, shared style, created in partnership between children’s brand Mon Coeur and LOFT; prices from $40 at loft.com.This medical-grade face mask uses red- and near-infrared light therapy to promote younger, healthier-looking skin and a brighter complexion; $395 at nordstrom.com.Tea Forte’s Draper James Hydrangea set includes a selection of tea blends as well as a proprietary tea cup and holder; set $70 at teaforte.com.Sugarfina’s oversized dose of creamy milk chocolate in the hazelnut-crêpe flavor is an indulgent treat to savor; $11 at sugarfina.com.The La Chatelaine lemon verbena hand lotion moisturizes and repairs dry skin with shea butter, vitamin E and argan oil; the scent is also divinely uplifting; $22 at lachatelainebeauty.com.SPONSORED: This Mother’s Day, celebrate her with the timeless sparkle of diamond studs. With Roman Jewelers’ Signature Diamond Stud Program, you can upgrade at any time and apply the full original purchase amount toward a larger pair—so her diamonds can grow right along with your love; starting at $699 at romanjewelers.com.Reflections Spa at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg will pamper Mom with their menu of facial and body treatments, massages and more. Visit crystalgolfresort.com.Pendry Natirar in Gladstone-Peapack is hosting Mother’s Day activities to share with loved ones, including a mommy-and-me tea, a yoga session and a floral workshop that includes a farm tour. And, of course, the state-of-the-art spa is available for a range of pampering services. For details, visit pendry.com.A beautifully curated Mother’s Day brunch at Congress Hall in Cape May is set to celebrate moms in an elegant ballroom, with a luxurious meal of locally sourced gourmet cuisine. To make it a weekend affair, there’s special Mom’s Day pricing at the hotel, which includes brunch. For details, visit caperesorts.com.The post Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2026: Gifts & Experiences to Make Her Day appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
It takes research to create authentic television and movies, and the props team for Hulu’s The Bear did its homework. The minimalist, handmade ceramics of North Jersey’s own Jono Pandolfi feature prominently in the fine-dining restaurant where the later seasons take place, and for good reason. The Jersey City resident’s tableware is used in some 800 restaurants around the globe, including some of the most elevated fine-dining establishments in New York City, from Jean Georges’s Nougatine to Lilia to Gramercy Tavern.
“They knew that we were a cult brand, and it felt accurate [to use our products],” Pandolfi explains. “It felt like a huge accomplishment.”
Pandolfi’s plates, bowls and serving dishes have a rustic yet refined aesthetic thanks to the natural clay exterior and smooth-glazed interior, with colors ranging from pale pink to green-and-yellow ombre. They are also solidly built, yet still elegant, making them perfect for everyday use. Known to foodies for years, the work became instantly recognizable when it took the center of the table—literally—on the hit show.
Plates, bowls and serving dishes from Jono Pandolfi Designs are used at restaurants around the globe. Photo: Courtesy of Mosaic/Gab BonghiInterest in the brand increased, retail sales bumped up “a whole lot,” and media inquiries came pouring in. But, while he was happy to be involved in a big television production—his team actually worked with the props department to pick the right pieces—the biggest satisfaction came from existing fans and friends.
“The coolest thing was that, on social media, so many people would say, ‘Oh my God, we knew it was your stuff when we saw it!’” he says, adding that trained eyes will also spot his pieces on tables in shows such as Billions and Succession.
The Bear follows the character Carmine “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) as he prepares to open a fine-dining restaurant after returning home to Chicago to work at his family’s Italian beef-sandwich spot following the death of his brother. Culinary-world icons, including Pandolfi’s longtime friend Will Guidara, consulted on the show, so it was only fitting that the creators worked with Pandolfi. His ceramics graced the tables of Eleven Madison Park, after all, where Guidara was once the general manager.
Pandolfi has run his ceramics business out of the Yardley Building in Union City, with views of the towering West Side of Manhattan, since 2008. He started with 400 square feet and now operates out of 30,000 square feet. His team of about 40 employees “form, fire and ship” 1,200 pieces a day.
“I stumbled onto something special when I decided to sell to restaurants,” says Pandolfi. “It’s a good market to be in…I love making pottery that people use.”
During the pandemic, the company pivoted to retail sales, which makes up about 40 percent of the business.
You could say business is going well. You could say Jono Pandolfi feels creatively fulfilled. And you could say New Jersey has been good for Jono Pandolfi Designs.
On a recent day at Pandolfi’s huge, sun-dappled pottery studio, employees were having a communal lunch. The makers who mold, glaze and ship earthenware plates and platters sat together at long tables near the kitchen, some talking, some on their phones. The space buzzed with the kind of energy only found in places where people make things with their hands and are generally happy to be there.
“What brought me to Jersey was the quality of life that was offered and promised,” says Pandolfi, who moved to the Hamilton Park neighborhood in Jersey City in 2008 and is raising two daughters there with his wife. “It has come through on that promise.”
He says he loves how “community oriented” Jersey City is and counts the restaurants Corto and Razza (which both use his work) and Liberty State Park as some of his favorite places.
Those who order his ceramics for their restaurants consider them to be much more than just vessels to contain food (though they are built for extended use and are dishwasher and microwave safe). At the newly revamped Princeton University Art Museum, director James Steward chose Pandolfi’s work to decorate the tables at the museum’s restaurant, Mosaic.
“The intended look and feel of the restaurant was to privilege texture, finish and color,” Steward explained in an email, adding that the appearance of everything in the restaurant should “reinforce the same creativity” in the galleries. “Once I saw the color options and felt how good the cups and mugs felt in the hand, that was it.”
The post Meet the NJ Potter Who Makes the Tableware Featured on ‘The Bear’ appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
A ruffled trim gives shapely lines to this flowy, floral patterned mini dress; $168 at anthropologie.com.A generous silhouette gives these slacks a comfy, on-trend look; $99 at hm.com.A soft, quilted carryall is $33 at splendid.com.This shawl collared vest has a flattering, waist-cinching half belt; $139 at cos.com.This short-cropped, textured-denim tweed jacket will elevate any look; $144.97 at gap.com.The stitching and shape of this midi skirt create a fun and flattering work-to-date look; $228 at gap.com.Hand-sculpted, liquid-Lucite modernist earrings go with everything in your wardrobe; $245 at alexisbittar.com.Modeled after traditional Italian amulets, this version uses clear Lucite with a molten appearance; $295 at alexisbittar.com.The post What to Wear This Spring: Florals, Denim and Chic Neutrals appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Montclair, known for its top restaurants and arts scene, has become a shopping destination that has attracted lots of high-end retailers of national chains like Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Athleta, Talbots and more. In keeping with its small-town meets big-city charm, there are lots of high-end boutiques and independent shops that sell everything from locally made soaps to jewelry and artwork.
When you are on the hunt for unique finds, here are five eclectic shops to explore.
Houss Freya ApothecaryNamed for the Norse goddess of love and war, Houss Freya is part gathering place for all things ethereal, mystical and badass, and part retail shop. Housed fittingly in a 1896 Gothic-style building, you’ll find candles, oils, bath and shower products, sprays and incense.
Houss Freya’s soy Abundance candle is infused with bayberry root, ginger, orange peel and mint. Photo: Courtesy of Houss FreyaProduct offerings include Houss Freya’s brand, as well as goods consigned by local makers. The space also has a host of practitioners, who give readings from tarot cards to mediumship and more. There’s also a full roster of classes, workshops and other activities on their calendar.
205 Glenridge Avenue
JafajemsThere is always something new at this globally inspired shop that has had a home in Montclair for more than 20 years. The store is a collection of handmade gifts, clothing, home decor and jewelry from all over the world— cool finds from as many as 45 countries, places such as France, Africa, Turkey and India.
Colorful silk and cotton scarves, and a lively rainbow of handbags are on offer at Jafajems. Photo: Courtesy of JafajemsRich color abounds on items like silk scarves, paper goods from napkins to paper plates (almost too pretty to use and throw away!), tote bags and fancy poufs. Local makers are represented, too, with origami ornaments, handmade jewelry and town-pride items that give a shout to Montclair.
622 Valley Road
Montclair Antique CenterBeware: this place is an afternoon stealer. Tucked in to a storefront on tony Church Street, this multi-vendor antique emporium is deceptively large. You can stay busy for hours sleuthing through 1950s costume jewelry, art deco cocktail glasses, furniture, dishes, pottery, and curiosities of all kinds. Along with an array of vintage finds—Star Trek glasses, anyone?—there are lots of true antiques that date from the 19th and 20th centuries and even earlier, including fine jewelry and artwork. Come ready to buy—many items are one of a kind.
34 Church Street
The Eclectic Chic BoutiqueThis collective of more than 30 artists is largely local, small-business makers, who create hand-pour candles, watercolor paintings, crocheted dolls and other toys, jewelry and clothing. In addition to the shopping experience, guests can partake in craft workshops to learn to knit or sew, specialty art classes like Japanese watercolor painting, donut decorating and lots of other hands-on fun online or in person.
A Chanel-inspired soap and bath bomb by handmade by Terri Spruill of Honeycat Cosmetics is among the wares at Eclectic Chic boutique in Montclair. Photo: Sterling BrownThere’s also space that can be rented for private craft events or parties. As well, the collective offers support for its vendor community with mentorship opportunities to help build their businesses.
547 Bloomfield Avenue
Montclair Art MuseumCreativity is the name of the game at the Montclair Art Museum gift shop. Along with books about art and artists, you’ll find catalogs from current and past exhibits, as well as the museum’s permanent collections. This well-curated outlet of the museum offers educational toys for the little ones, as well as items to spur their imaginations. Handmade items like scarves and jewelry, share space with greeting cards, miniature sculptures, pottery and handbags. From museum mementos, like MAM T-shirts to colorful, ceramic balloon-animal banks, the shop captures the energy and artistry of the galleries. The gift shop is open during gallery hours.
3 South Mountain Avenue
The post 5 Places to Shop for Unique Gifts in Montclair appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Surround yourself with celebs via this sketched wallpaper, available in four colorways; from $135 at astekhome.com.A nostalgic popcorn maker will give the classic aroma and piles of fresh flavor; $69.99 at macys.com.Have a real Hollywood experience with marquee-style letters; price on request at circu.net.Leather recliners, with cupholders set in the arms, give an authentic theater experience; from $5,037 at potterybarn.com.Don’t forget to give a nod to your favorite flicks, like with this 1975 poster of Jaws*—inspired by real 1916 shark attacks at the Jersey Shore; $20 and up (unframed) at wallsauce.com.Lidded woven baskets are ideal for stashing everything from blankets to slippers; $119-$189 at containerstore.com.*The post 6 Stylish Ways to Elevate Your Home Theater appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
It was a chilly afternoon in late November, but some 50,000 guests in Marc Leckington’s backyard seemed to be warm, happy and snug as they drowsed the day away. “They’re pretty quiet now,’’ said Leckington. “Hopefully, they all survive the winter.’’
Leckington and his wife, Michele, keep bees in the backyard of their tidy Tudor home in Trenton. Michelle says it was just another one of their crazy ideas—something that looked interesting.
After a few false starts and some beekeeping classes, the Leckingtons and their hives started humming. Soon, they were bottling honey every spring and fall, and even selling some to brewers and mead makers. Last year, they harvested some 500 pounds and began selling chunks of raw, ripe honeycomb cut straight from the hive.
The Leckingtons sell their home-grown honey to brewers and mead makers. Photo: Matt ZugaleIn every corner of New Jersey, people who’ve never worked a farm or even tilled a garden are husbanding honeybees on rooftops, vacant lots and suburban yards. Enthusiasts estimate there are as many as 4,000 or more amateurs feeding a beekeeping boom that shows no sign of slowing amid the growing demand for fresh, local food.
Many are food artisans and restaurants seeking distinctive and wholesome ingredients.
“Why are so many people drawn to beekeeping? That’s a great question,” says New Jersey state apiarist Meghan McConnell, an entomologist who also operates Holly City Honey Bees in Millville. “There’s just something very rewarding about the rhythm and nature of beekeeping that attracts all kinds of people.”
Of course, there’s also the honey, which has become a homegrown staple for many locavores.
Allison Wachenheim-Tolpa, the former longtime owner of Sweet Cheeks Farm & Apiary in Hunterdon County, says locally made honey has become an essential ingredient in the arsenal of chefs and food artisans. High-end locavore hangouts like Agricola in Morristown sought out her small-batch blends of herb-and flower-infused honey for sauces, marinades, salad dressings and cheese boards.
Bartenders, she says, are always on the hunt for ways to add spice, smokiness or herbal notes to their cocktails. “Honey is far more than a simple sweetener,” she says. “It’s a flavor storyteller.”
Restaurants like the MC Hotel in Montclair have even started their own bee colonies. The Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May also raises its own bees to help pollinate its gardens and provide local honey for guests.
Eleftherios Xenidis, executive chef at the Hyatt Regency Jersey City, says homegrown honey gives urban chefs access to a fresh, local ingredient that cooks in more rural areas take for granted. “In Jersey City, we’re not surrounded by farms and farmers markets where you always know you can easily find great stuff,” he says. “Plus, commercial, mass-produced honey is just garbage.”
Bee wine, otherwise known as mead, is, at its most basic, a fermented mix of honey and water. It’s the world’s oldest known alcoholic beverage, and it happens to be having a moment in New Jersey.
Curtis Blodgett, owner of the Beach Bee Meadery in Beach Haven, offers a half-dozen varieties, including one he ages in Scotch whisky barrels for four years. He’s partial to New Jersey wildflower and red bamboo honey from Stiles, a bee farm in Middlesex County.
Ray Sheehan is a nationally known chef, grill master and cookbook author from New Egypt, a small community in western Ocean County. He’ll talk all day about the importance of local honey—more specifically, Pine Barrens honey. Aficionados say it has an unmistakable herbal finish that comes from the acidic soils feeding native flora like the pepperbush and pitch pine. It’s a distinctly different taste experience from familiar, citrusy orange-blossom honey or other honeys made from the nectar of grassy clover fields.
Sheehan’s search for the perfect honey ended with a pair of beekeepers in Jackson Township. He’s also smitten with a producer from rural Fords in Middlesex County, who supplies the key component of his best-selling condiment, hot honey.
One day early last December, Sheehan sold four full cases of his hot honey concoction at Pop’s farm market in Monroe Township. The secret, he says, is steeping the Fords wildflower honey with mashed chili peppers. “You taste the sweet honey on your lips at first, but then the heat comes on in a wave,” Sheehan says. “Then all of a sudden the heat backs off, and you’re left with the taste of that honey again. It’s an experience.”
Buffs say the essential beauty and mystery of the bee colony is its ability to thrive just about anywhere. Despite the scourge of pests like parasitic mites, and the well-documented impact of pesticides and climate stress on pollinators, healthy bees always find a way to make honey.
Photo: Matt ZugaleBack in Trenton, Marc Leckington says his bees are active in early spring, as soon as the maples, poplars and dogwoods in nearby Cadwalader Park start to leaf out and blossom. As the weather warms, his bees also drink nectar from the perennial herbs and shrubs in the park and around the Hiltonia neighborhood sitting above the Delaware and Raritan Canal.
From spring until summer, Leckington’s backyard BeeCurious Honey Farm will yield 500 pounds of honey that is delicious, deeply flavored and dusky—not what you’d find in the average supermarket. “It was definitely a great year,” he says.
The post Hive to Table: Local Honey Is Sweetening NJ Restaurants and Breweries appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Potter and designer Jonathan Adler’s creative life didn’t unfold in a straight line—it swerved early on and occasionally skidded on Rollerblades.
His mid-century modern-inspired ceramics have enjoyed front-and-center placements in retail stores for more than 30 years. The hands-on ceramist imbues his work with his signature wit, glamour, and an energy that makes each piece infinitely collectible.
Growing up in Bridgeton, Adler discovered this love for the craft at age 12 in summer camp at Appel Farm in Elmer. “It was the most hippie-dippie place on Earth: We slept in converted chicken coops, grew our own vegetables and worked the fields. It felt like a kibbutz,” he says.
Pottery wasn’t a phase. “From the moment I first touched clay, it was on,” Adler says. “I am not a spiritual person, but I felt an immediate connection.” He remembers rushing to the mailbox every month to retrieve his copy of Ceramics Monthly.
Later, while studying at Brown, Adler spent as much time as he could across town at Rhode Island School of Design, immersing himself in the craft. After graduation, a master of fine arts seemed a reasonable next step, but he was met with a startling rejection. “I was told I had no talent and should move to New York City and become a lawyer,” he says. That discouragement became fuel.
He moved to Manhattan and, within three years, was not taking the bar, but rather producing his first ceramics collection. The dedicated potter spent long days in his studio fashioning every mug, every handle, every detail himself. “I would Rollerblade to my studio in the morning, listen to NPR all day, Rollerblade home late at night, and wake up the next day and do it all again,” he says. His exuberance paid off when Barneys department store in New York placed an order. Proof that the retail business was, for Adler, a necessity rather than a motivator, he waited months for payment from that order, finally calling to inquire. “They said, ‘Oh, you’re the guy who didn’t send us an invoice,’” Adler recounts. “To which I replied, ‘What’s an invoice?’”
These days, the entrepreneur has significantly more business acumen. His creative empire includes a store in London and eight others across the United States, including one at American Dream in East Rutherford.
“From the moment I first touched clay, it was on,” Adler says. “I am not a spiritual person, but I felt an immediate connection.” Photo: Courtesy of Jonathan AdlerStill deeply hands-on, Adler designs or selects all of the brand’s offerings. The potter/designer no longer makes each piece by hand, which has given him the freedom to successfully expand into furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories. Acquired by a private-equity firm last year, Adler remains at the company’s helm as founder and chief creative officer, with a fount of ideas that seems to never run dry.
When he does need a reset, he turns to nature. One afternoon, paddleboarding near his Shelter Island, NY, home, he says he spotted “the perfect cloud—a cloud’s cloud.” Fast-forward to the studio, and the best-selling Esther Cloud settee was born.
Adler credits his Cumberland County upbringing as a contributor to his success. “I couldn’t be more South Jersey,” the artist says, pointing out he was an hour from Philly, an hour from the beach, and 45 minutes from the nearest highway. “I was isolated and spent my Jersey years stewing and thinking and developing my sensibility, cut off from the rest of the world.”
“The Mad MAD World of Jonathan Adler” at the Museum of Arts and Design in NYC. Photo: Filip Wolak/Courtesy of Museum of Arts and DesignAdler’s latest venture is as curator of the exhibit “The Mad MAD World of Jonathan Adler” at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City, which runs through April 19. “Curating the show was a great opportunity to reflect on my work and to understand my creative odyssey in dialogue with my ceramic heroes,” he says.
The post Growing Up in South Jersey Molded Jonathan Adler’s Creative Vision appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Gold embroidery and gold-foil accents amp up a classic look on this multi-section fabric-covered jewelry box; $78 at anthropologie.com.This mixed-media art piece is handmade with pressed flowers by Jersey native Jasmine Irons; from $215 at 3ofcupshealing.com.A fanciful carnival jar for your sweets; $77 at jonathanadler.com.18k heart with cubic zirconia from Newark- and Long Branch-based Delson Jewelry; $520 at delsonjewelry.com.Designer Carolina Herrera’s signature perfume, Good Girl Blush, shines in a stiletto bottle; $170 at nordstrom.com.Lacy and streamlined, this number can be worn alone, under a jacket, or in the boudoir; $110 at hm.com.Artisanal painted bonbons are a treat; $45 at Handcrafted Chocolate in Point Pleasant or handcraftedbylauren.com.The post New Jersey Monthly‘s 2026 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Nestled in the heart of rural Hopewell Township, Cara and David Brown’s 1724 stone house, Harvest Field, holds 300 years of holiday history. Built by French Huguenots, the home is a testament to endurance and reinvention, qualities its owners have embraced since moving from Texas in 2005. The Mercer County home is rich with patina and personality, blending vintage elegance with a casual, collected sensibility.
Cara, a widely recognized jewelry designer, describes the lived-in, loved-in residence as a “jewel box” where antique furniture, playful objets d’art and storied travel souvenirs are layered with intention. “Each room is filled with family treasures, and every corner tells a story,” she says. “Someday, I hope our grandchildren will appreciate these things.”
Presiding over the living room is a tall angel figure, rumored to be a tribute to the 1920 Summer Olympic Games. A jaunty blue sofa, vintage art and curated objects spruce up the space. Photo: Laura MossFor the holiday season, the family invited Far Hills interior designer Jessica Melillo of House of Worth (Instagram: @_house.of.worth) to source seasonal interior and exterior decor, wrap festive gifts, and style an elaborate sweets and fruit buffet provided by Maranatha Farm in Somerset County. Christmas guests will be greeted with a signature Harvest Field cocktail inside the foyer, where Melillo decorated a fresh tree with dried oranges, persimmons and pineapple attached to velvet ribbons. The tree is radiant atop a herringbone-brick floor, complemented by a Welsh cabinet laden with favorite heirlooms.
A jolly tree, trimmed with dried fruit and velvet ribbons, is adorned with an antique angel topper. Photos: Laura MossAt the heart of the residence is the dining room, a cozy, hobbit-like space where low wooden beams and original pine floors cocoon family and friends. A walk-in fireplace embellished with wrapped presents, a wood carving by Will Kautz and an antique American flag create storybook intimacy. A mural of the family’s property, hand-painted by a Bucks County artist, graces the dining room walls.
The dining room table, styled by Jessica Melillo, features an old swan sculpture, 30-inch candles, and velvet chair ribbons hand-painted by Karolyn Stephenson. A carved wood garland, antique American flag and wrapped gifts decorate the fireplace. Photos: Laura MossTheir December 25, 2025 dinner will include blue-cheese-stuffed beef tenderloin, green chile and rice casserole, and a mandarin orange and greens salad. For this couple, the joy is in the details: Imari plates, bespoke monogrammed linens, and heirloom silver from both grandmothers decorate their tablescape.
While the dining room is the celebratory heart of the home, the kitchen, often fragranced by fresh-baked cookies, is a soulful retreat. The breakfast nook offers a peaceful view of the changing seasons and a comfy spot for Cara to create her one-of-a-kind necklaces.
Photos: Laura MossThroughout the home, collections abound: sculpture and paintings in neutral palettes are punctuated by unexpected bursts of color, all curated over 30 years of marriage. Each deeply personal object is layered to feel fresh. Many of the contemporary paintings are by local artist Elizabeth Endres, a family friend whose modern sensibility balances the centuries-old architecture. Cara calls herself a treasure hunter, equally happy browsing flea markets as she is pulling over for a roadside find. Her passion for design is inherited. “I grew up with a mom who was an interior designer. She repurposed old things and appreciated their legacy.”
The carved wooden Santa was found by the side of the road. Photos: Laura MossEven the home’s staircase carries special meaning. Painted on each riser is part of the biblical verse, “Through wisdom a house is built. And by understanding, it is established.”
From intimate cocktail parties to grand holiday fetes, the Browns’ stone house is perfect for entertaining. But it’s also a place of quiet reflection, where history is honored and the present is celebrated. “We especially enjoy welcoming guests during the holidays,” Cara says. “This home is a joy for us.”
The post 300-Year-Old New Jersey Home Gets Gussied Up for Christmas appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Does Anyone Else Feel This Way?Eli RalloHarperCollinsEli Rallo, an influencer with more than 1 million followers on TikTok, wrote this collection of essays to help other Gen Z readers struggling to make their way in a world that feels like the opposite of everything they were promised. Rallo, who grew up in New Jersey, shares what it means to be in your 20s and how life is harder than it looks on social media. She also talks about surviving friendship breakups, social media, and knowing when you’ve made the right decision. Her essays also look at her own misadventures and the life lessons that she’s learned along the way. —Jacqueline Mroz
Lightning in a BottleMike McLaughlinMt. Crushmore RecordsThis 400-page hardcover book by photographer Michael McLaughlin documents the raw passion of the original Asbury Lanes from 2005 to 2015. This vintage bowling alley served as much as a meeting ground for creatives as it did a club, ushering in the rebirth of Asbury. Vivid photos and handwritten accounts of wild shows and more tell this legendary venue’s story. —Jon Coen
The Kidnapping of Alice IngoldCate HolahanThomas & MercerBest-selling author Cate Holahan, who lives in Tenafly, tells the fictional story of a wealthy teenager who has been kidnapped and the ways in which her parents, a socialite and an AI-tech CEO, try to find her. Holahan was inspired by her concerns for her teen daughters’ futures, working and living in a world where technology—especially AI—is evolving at lightning speed. —J. Mroz
Bread of AngelsPatti SmithRandom HouseThis new memoir by rock icon Patti Smith, author of the National Book Award winner Just Kids, tells the story of her life, including growing up in Deptford Township, where she lived until she was 20 years old. In 1967, she moved to New York City and started her career as a poet/singer/songwriter. “Dancing was a South Jersey pride,” she says in the book of the dances she went to as a teenager. “We were the best dancers, and I was pretty good.” —J. Mroz
Please Don’t LieChristina Baker Kline and Anne BurtThomas & MercerThis is the first thriller by former Montclair resident Christina Baker Kline (Orphan Train); she cowrote it with longtime friend Anne Burt (also formerly of Montclair). Set in the Adirondack Mountains, it tells the story of Haley Stone, a young woman hoping to rebuild her life with her husband after a series of devastating losses. But soon, secrets begin to surface, and the story becomes a tale of betrayal and survival. —J. Mroz
Rock & SoulBarry MorgensteinBallast BooksGrowing up in Teaneck, Barry Morgenstein wanted to be the next Beatle. When his guitar playing didn’t quite measure up, he turned to immortalizing his musical heroes through the camera, “capturing moments that felt like chords,” he writes in this new collection. Jersey greats Bon Jovi, Steven Van Zandt and Whitney Houston appear alongside B.B. King, David Bowie, Paul McCartney and others. (Sadly, no Bruce!) —Jennifer Finn
WorkhorseCaroline PalmerMacmillanWhat’s an ambitious young editorial assistant to do when she’s determined to catapult herself up the ladder of the world’s most prestigious fashion magazine while competing with colleagues who have a more powerful last name? In her debut novel, Caroline Palmer gives readers an in-depth look at the glamour, grit and greed necessary to break into the fashion-editorial world—terrain Palmer knows well as former Vogue.com editor. — Jaime Bedrin
What About the BodiesKen JaworowskiSimon & SchusterFrom New York Times editor Ken Jaworowski comes a new crime novel about three individuals dealing with secrets, deaths and small-town troubles. For one character, it’s the whereabouts of a missing girl; for another, a debt that threatens her dream career. As obstacles pile up for protagonists Reed, Carla and Liz, the question becomes, what are they all willing to do to get by in an unfair world? —Ben Wasserman
The post The Best New Jersey-Centric Books to Gift This Holiday Season appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
All photos courtesy of the manufacturersAdd this wool fedora with a suede band in a rich olive hue to any look for an instant upgrade; $440 at pypermalone.com. These kitten-heeled booties are glitzy with an eye on comfort; $180 at anthropologie.com. Barnegat Light jewelry designer Elizabeth Lichtenstein is a skilled metalsmith whose work is informed by her earlier career in graphic design. Inspired by the natural beauty of Jersey’s dunes and shore, Lichtenstein creates necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and more. Custom orders are welcome. Visit her Etsy shop. —Deborah P. Carter This classic 100-proof rye hails from Shelbyville, Tennessee, and offers a rich, elevated flavor; $45.99 at totalwine.com. For the ultimate in custom jewelry, choose Ida Lee necklace-link initials that spell out a personalized message. Available in 16k gold-plated, silver and gold; prices vary at NJ-based alisonscherr.com. A ring of pear-shaped rubies surrounds a diamond center for a celestial burst; a total of two-plus carats combined; $2,658 at shop.acsilver.co.uk.Toast the new year with Kim Seybert Champagne flutes, made by European artisans. Gift-boxed set of 2; $184 at Domani Home in Lakewood and kimseybert.com.Eyes will follow the sleek modern lines of this glimmering vermillion skirt; $79.99 at hm.com. The Mixed Metallic Baguette handbag by Cara Benevenia, crafted in the Garden State by leather artisans, is a perfect holiday accessory; $395 at carabenevenia.com. Fancy bottle openers with bedazzled finishes and whimsical themes elevate any bar cart; $78-$128 at the Depot in Morristown and joannabuchanan.com. Give the gift of cozy with UGG’s fleece-filled Classic slip-on ($120, top) or Tasman style ($125, bottom) at Murdoch Shoes in Bloomfield (973-748-6484). Ready-to-play classic board games in fabric-wrapped editions by WS Game Company turn timeless faves into display-worthy décor; 15-pack, $47 each at Cam Jam Kids in Summit. Creative takes on this much-loved treat from a Jersey chef and author; $25.99 at amazon.com.Mulberry silk pillowcases from Blissy are a gentle luxury for hair and skin; $58.87 at amazon.com. Always the family baker, Alicja Truesdale’s holiday goodies were requested from friends and family far and wide. The annual flood of orders led her to open Razzberē, a holiday pop-up bakery. The Trenton-based home baker ships delicious, made-from-scratch, beautifully packaged butter cookies, scones, pies and cakes, including a to-die-for cream cheese pound cake that “never gets stale.” Custom orders welcome. Visit beacons.ai/razzbere to order. —DPC It’s a family affair when you gift holiday PJs to your whole gang (even the dog)! Available in multiple styles/sizes. As shown, $138 at katiekime.com.Celebrate the season with comforting soy-candle fragrances like Brunch, Cozy Cabin and Gin & Tonic. Small batches made in New Jersey; $12 each at waxcabincandleco.com. Snowy velvet flocking and permanent bulbs make this evergreen ever ready, from $63.20 at grandinroad.com. Guests will buzz about the Cora handcrafted brass bumblebee door knocker; $190 at adamsandmack.com. Customize this tartan kerchief and give a holiday look to your four-legged family members; $12.99 at markandgraham.com.This beautifully boxed ornament is handpainted in a modern, marble-inspired pattern; $39 each at webbandgray.com.“Every Peruvian family has their own version of chicha morada,” says Carlos Ruiz about the ancient Incan drink made from purple corn, green and red apples, cinammon and cloves. A creative mixologist, Ruiz has reimagined his grandmother’s recipe as a unique liqueur—and a family business, Miraflores; $40.99 at totalwine.com. —DPCAdd some humor to your favorite guy’s holiday wardrobe with brightly patterned Happy Socks. Prices vary at Bloomingdale’s stores and bloomingdales.com Serve up sour cream, applesauce and more latke toppings this Hanukkah from this festive stoneware condiment dish; $69.50 at potterybarn.com. Handsome dog tag in 14k yellow gold can be engraved or a statement on its own; $1,043 at nordstrom.com.A Pine Tree plaid blanket will keep you toasty warm at home or around a crackling campfire; $150 at chappywrap.com.This retro-inspired, powder-coated box includes an all-in-one grill with a coal tray for the always prepared; $107 at anabeljames.co.uk.Astronomy enthusiasts and dreamers will enjoy this sterling silver keychain map of the night sky; $160 each at thenightsky.com.Architecturally rendered, this birdhouse will be the envy of the neighborhood; $35 at umbra.com.Kick off 2026 with an outdoor adventure aboard a luxe Bluejay Electric Bicycle. As shown, $3,995 at bluejaybikes.com. The post 30 Holiday Gifts Your Loved Ones Will Actually Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Visit any landfill, and there’s a good chance you’ll see a baby bouncer or highchair amongst the scraps. The husband-and-wife duo behind Evrloop hope to change that.
Vince Giudice and Marlo Gertz-Giudice created their business with one guiding principle: Keep your baby’s carbon footprint little. For the Chatham couple, this translates to a business using entirely recycled and regenerative materials in its baby gear, minimizing waste, and offering a buyback program where customers can get up to a 20 percent rebate by returning their used products to Evrloop.
“I like to use the line, ‘Your baby deserves the best right now and 50 years from now,’” Giudice says. He previously spent over a decade heading product design and development at Green Toys, a West Coast toy company that makes its products out of 100 percent recycled plastics. When Giudice eventually departed the company, he wanted to take the concept a step further. A father of two, he soon chose baby gear as his product line—even keeping a journal to outline the pros and cons of the items his kids used.
Photo: Courtesy of EvrloopGuidice highlights the unique brevity of baby products, recognizing that bouncers, for example, are typically only used for six months. That short lifespan, paired with the fact that, for liability reasons, some places won’t accept used baby-item donations, means many products are left out on the curb.
“You have this category where you have a lot of waste and a lot of quality,” says Giudice. “That all came together, and we decided, let’s go ahead and do this.”
Evrloop launched nationwide in April with three-in-one highchairs ($220) and bouncers ($200). Products are available at retailers including Amazon, Target+, Pottery Barn Kids, Crate & Kids, plus evrloop.com.
The couple hopes their efforts can help inspire other businesses to go green.
“The hope is that people replicate this, that we can share the data on how it works both financially and for carbon reduction,” Guidice says.
New Jersey Monthly readers can use the special discount code EVRNJMONTHLY20 for 20 percent off Evrloop products on evrloop.com. Expires May 1, 2026.
The post This Chatham Couple Is Redefining Baby Gear for a Greener Future appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Classic blue stripes on a white cotton duvet offer a warm welcome; from $109 at thewhitecompany.com.Snuggly knit slippers in bright color blocks are comfortable and stylish for home or away; $48 at verloop.com.Relax and inhale with this cozy cottage-styled atomizer. Just fill with water and a few fragrant drops of essential oil, and breathe; $70 at umbra.com.Give guests a convenient spot to rest their bags with this traditional luggage rack; $143 at thestripescompany.us.A fuzzy herringbone-patterned throw in shades of sage is perfect for chilly evenings; $162 at socosy.co.uk.This hard-sided carry-on from Away is just the right size for a long weekend jaunt; $257.99 at nordstrom.com.The post Cozy Comforts to Refresh Your Guest Room This Holiday Season appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Kate Dawson doesn’t do well with blank walls. An interior designer based in Millburn, her firm, Decor Whore, creates cheerful and inviting spaces that are often as playful as the company’s name.
So in March of this year, when Dawson found herself facing a diagnosis of an aggressive form of leukemia, walking into that first hospital room was not just representative of having to confront the health challenges that lay in front of her. The space itself, which lacked any character except for some large windows that admitted a nice amount of natural light, immediately brought down her entire mood.
“I walked in and I was just like, This is not gonna work,” Dawson recalls. “It was just, like, a gross, yellowy pudding color on the walls; the artwork was super old…. It was just blah as blah could be.”
So Dawson did what she does best: she decorated. It wasn’t simply that the hospital room looked bland or unattractive to Dawson’s carefully attuned design eye. Its aesthetic actually had an effect on her mentally as she faced a long-term stay in the hospital.
The desk area featured butterflies—which became an important, symbolic motif in the room—and a multitude of personal details. Photo courtesy of Kate Dawson/Decor WhoreNumerous studies have shown a link between a person’s physical surroundings and their mood, stress level, recovery process, and even how they heal—with elements such as plants, window views and pleasing artwork helping.
“Loving your space changes your life,” Dawson says. “It changes the way you show up in the world. It changes the way you just get up in the morning, if you love where you are.”
A Long Road AheadDawson, 50, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, on March 6, about a month after first noticing a host of strange and concerning symptoms: bad nosebleeds, unexplained bruising, searing jaw and muscle pain, extreme fatigue.
Over the course of seven months this year, she spent two extended stays in the hospital: the first, 26 days at Hackensack University Medical Center for a blood transfusion, chemotherapy and other treatments; the second, 33 days at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick for a stem cell transplant. Her son, Zeke, almost 14 years old at the time, was her donor—the youngest donor the hospital has ever seen for a stem cell transplant.
Kate Dawson Photo courtesy of Kate Dawson/Decor WhoreDuring both hospital stays, Dawson went to work, giving her rooms complete makeovers. She brought in the works: new bedding, decorative pillows, inspiring artwork, colorful lamps, a patterned ottoman, items of sentimental value—all while being careful not to damage the walls or any existing furniture. Friends brought pictures, books and other items to give the room a more personal feel. A lot of Command strips and decals were used.
She raided her own inventory of pieces she uses for client projects, did some online shopping at stores like Natural Life, Amazon and TJ Maxx, and bought other items at budget-friendly HomeSense and HomeGoods.
“It just made the room feel like not a hospital room,” she says, “and it really made a huge difference in my mood.”
The decor also influenced the doctors, nurses and other hospital staffers in a positive way. “People would come in and be like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m so excited to be with you today because I love this room.’”
Pillows are an inexpensive way to give a room a refresh, Dawson says. She hung portraits of the artist Frida Kahlo around the room because “nothing stopped her.” Photo courtesy of Kate Dawson/Decor WhoreTaking FlightDuring Dawson’s stay at Robert Wood Johnson, butterflies became a powerful motif. She had just finished a project for a client that featured paper butterflies appearing to take flight in a dining room. Remembering that she had leftover inventory, and herself a longtime lover of the beautiful, transformative creatures, Dawson placed them throughout her room, clustering 30 or 40 around a piece of artwork and placing another group near her desk area.
But the most powerful butterfly moment came upon her departure from the hospital. Dawson decided to pass on the goodwill and put a sign on her door that read “free butterflies.” The response was incredible. Doctors put them on their monitors; nurses wore them around the hospital. When it was time for her to be discharged, “all the nurses came in and they just had butterflies everywhere.”
Dawson applied floral wall decals (from Amazon) so she wouldn’t damage the walls. Bedding came from Natural Life. Photo courtesy of Kate DawsonArt, both eye-catching and meaningful, was an important element. Dawson hung up portraits of the artist Frida Kahlo (bought on Amazon), “because nothing stopped her.” She had a gold lion’s head on the wall and lion’s head bookends, inspired by how the lion’s astrological significance aligned with the timing of her transplant. “I was just like, I will embrace anything that’s good and positive.”
In the bathroom, Dawson hung up a trio of whimsical paintings from Amazon of a lion, cheetah and tiger, all wearing funky glasses and “fabulous blazers.” “They made me laugh,” she says. “[I love] anything whimsical like that that’s going to keep things light.”
This trio of paintings hung in the bathroom. Photo courtesy of Kate Dawson/Decor WhoreOf course, it wasn’t just the hospital-room design that kept Dawson going. She had the support of her husband, Jed, and son, Zeke, who gave her the ultimate gift as her stem cell donor. Dawson returned home to West Orange on September 6 and said in mid-September that she was feeling “stronger every day.” She’d recently received encouraging news: Her son’s donor blood cells had taken over hers within her body.
She also had herself, and her body, to be grateful for throughout her health struggles. “I have heard people say in the past that they felt betrayed by their body when they got ill. And I feel like it’s important to say that I didn’t,” she says.
Photo courtesy of Kate Dawson/Decor Whore“For me, I had this whole new love and appreciation for my body and felt such gratitude for all she’s carried me through. I almost, like, cheered her on during all of this, too, and thanked her constantly for fighting so hard.”
Kate Dawson’s 5 ways to boost mood with decor:PillowsNever underestimate the power of a pillow. Swap in bold colors, fun textures, or seasonal prints, and suddenly your whole room feels refreshed. Bonus: they’re budget friendly and commitment free.
Accent wallWant major impact without painting the whole room? Pick one wall and go bold. Think jewel tones, a punchy coral, or even a rich emerald. A gallon of paint costs less than dinner for two, but the vibe shift? Priceless.
LightingLighting is basically mood magic. Swap out harsh bulbs for warm ones, add a floor lamp to a dark corner or treat yourself to a statement lamp that doubles as decor. Instant cozy, instant glow.
GreensPlants (real or faux) add life to any room. Greenery calms the eye, boosts the vibe and makes a space feel fresh. Faux counts. Just dust them so they don’t give themselves away.
Art that excites youHang something that makes you smile, laugh, or remember who you are. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Frame a print you love (I have a framed picture of Ron Burgundy in my home office, ’cause it makes me smile every time I see Will Ferrell’s silly face), blow up a candid photo, or lean a piece on a shelf. Art is an instant mood booster.
The post Why This Interior Designer Decked Out Her Hospital Room During Cancer Treatment appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Long before Rafael Contreras opened the Beau Ideal interior-design showroom in Westfield, he hosted pop-up sales out of a re-imagined Pepperidge Farm bakery truck.
Contreras, who resides in Metuchen, also spent a stint as a soap and candle sales rep, cruising the Tristate Area and picking up vintage finds along the way. Several years later, he began searching for a traditional storage area for all the treasures he had accumulated.
Soon, his artful vision caught the attention of interior designers, and the search for a brick-and-mortar retail space began. It would take two years to discover the perfect showroom, just two blocks from Westfield’s downtown. With natural light and white walls, the space offered a blank canvas ready for Contreras to add his distinctive style.
Contreras chose the name, which is derived from the French expression for “the ideal beauty,” to inspire people to bring style and personality into living spaces through vintage and antique items that are as functional as they are appealing. “My shop curates storied vintage finds, produced with intention, quality and design in mind,” Contreras says.
Photo: Courtesy of Rafael Contreras/Samuel Peña“I only buy what I truly love. And if it doesn’t sell, it goes into my home, which shares the same vibe as the store,” he says. “If I wouldn’t put it in my own space, it doesn’t make it onto the showroom floor.”
When sourcing irresistibly chic inventory, Contreras is always on the lookout for items that turn heads. From local haunts to nationwide auctions, he scours the market for pieces that sparkle with history while elevating the everyday. “There’s no place I won’t go to acquire rare finds, and I love bringing them home to be cleaned, polished and, sometimes, reupholstered,” he says.
Walk into the shop, and you’ll find everything from a 1970s Murano Italian chandelier to 1960s abstract expressionist artwork to ornate upholstered furniture that echoes Hollywood’s Golden Age. “I especially look for stand-out pieces with sculptural details and clean lines,” he says. “They’re like jewelry for your space. I believe that a home should radiate emotion and reflect the owner’s personality.”
Contreras, whose family emigrated from Colombia to Sayreville when he was a child, once dreamed of becoming a doctor. But over time, that path gave way to a different calling. “My business and my collecting are my deepest passions now,” he says.
The Beau Ideal is open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 5 pm, and also by appointment Tuesdays through Thursdays.
The Beau Ideal: 227 Elmer Street, Westfield; 732-305-0410;* @thebeauideal on Instagram.***
Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
The post How the Man Behind Westfield’s Beau Ideal Built a Haven of Vintage Treasures appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
An LED light-up paper house is replete with haunting details like celestial symbols and spooky creatures; $42 at anthropologie.com. Monochrome with silver-leaf accents, this lampshade is a year-round work of art; $88 at mountainandmolehill.com. The Moon Tarot poster is a year-round favorite conjuring good vibes with a simple black drawing against a parchment-style background; from $8.45 at posterstore.com. This statement-making, smoke-colored, acrylic table lamp has a stacked base and is topped with a black silk shade; $750 at jonathanadler.com. The Twiggy Moonlight crystal ball illuminates behind a twist of gnarled branches for a spooky effect; $129 at grandinroad.com. The post Chic Halloween Decor to Spookify Your Space appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Bobbi Brown is a beauty industry icon, bestselling author and entrepreneur—and now, she's telling her whole story in a new memoir, Still Bobbi (Simon & Schuster), out now. Three decades after founding Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, which she later sold to Estée Lauder, Brown launched Jones Road, her clean beauty brand known for its moisturizing, easy-to-use products and her signature "no-makeup makeup" look. The company, which surpassed $100 million in revenue last year, is headquartered in Montclair, where Brown has lived for nearly 40 years.Below, Brown reflects on the moments that shaped her, the power of authenticity and why she decided to write her most personal book yet.[caption id="attachment_832578" align="alignright" width="350"] Bobbi Brown's memoir, Still Bobbi, is out now.[/caption]You’ve written nine bestselling books. Why was it important for you to tell your own story now?I wasn’t planning to write a memoir. But one day, my now-agent literally showed up at my office in New Jersey and convinced me that I needed to tell my story. And because I liked her, I said yes. I thought it would be more about how to build a business while being a devoted wife, mother and friend. I kept saying it wasn’t a memoir but rather the stories of building a life. But it evolved into something more: It’s been a cathartic experience, helping me understand who I am, why I’ve been able to do the things I’ve done, and how I got here.What does the title, Still Bobbi, mean to you?The word "reinvention" is used a lot these days to describe women, their careers and their life stages. It's often used to describe me, too—and seeing as how I've embarked on everything from beauty to wellness to hospitality, I get it; it's accurate. But despite these reinventions, I'm the same Bobbi I've always been; there's just been a lot of personal and professional evolution."I am me" is a phrase I often say, and I even created a campaign around it, because I believe women are enough with who they are already. Still Bobbi is just another way to say that.Where did you get your love of makeup and beauty from?My mom was glamorous—the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. My earliest memory I have of her is watching her put on makeup, standing in front of the mirror getting ready to go out with my dad. She wore high heels and applied bronzer to the apples of her cheeks, her neck and her forehead. Then she would take a black Ebony writing pencil and fill in her brows, and put false eyelashes on with a pin or a toothpick. She’d use very pale lipstick. I just looked at her like she was the most glamorous woman in the world. She reminded me of Jackie O. She was stunning. I could never compete with how glamorous my mom was, so what I took away from it was that I needed to figure out who I was.Then, I saw Ali McGraw in Love Story and realized that she had dark straight hair like me, freckles, and wore very little makeup—just like me. It was the first time I saw myself and my aesthetic, which would become the "no-makeup makeup" look.How have your definitions of beauty and wellness evolved over the course of your life?Women today have a new definition of what beauty is. In the '50s and '60s, the standard of beauty was the tall, thin, blonde All-American girl. That’s what magazines covered and what movie stars looked like then. Today we see the rise in the inclusiveness, and expansion of beauty, of all types.I believe in teaching women how to achieve the look that is best for them, versus trying to attain some external standard of beauty. For over 30 years, my message has consistently been about being authentic and being yourself. What’s most beautiful to me is a person who is happy and confident and who embraces who they are, flaws and all. That’s the new standard of beauty.What inspired you to popularize the "no-makeup makeup" look?I’ve been a makeup artist for 40 years, but what I say now is what I’ve been preaching my whole career. I don’t follow trends, and most women do not want trends. They want beauty products that are clean, easy to apply, and that just work.I’m very consistent and have always preferred a natural, effortless look. Even though many media outlets are calling the 'no-makeup makeup' look a trend, I’ve been doing it for over four decades. To me, whatever makes you feel the most confident is the best trend to follow. It transcends generations.You write in the book that you sacrificed “fabulosity” for normalcy when you moved from NYC to NJ. What does that mean to you?I expand upon it in the book so easily because it was so true then and is still true now: As much as I loved New York, I also loved leaving the city. Montclair is a vibrant town with grass, backyards and a community of really interesting people. We also didn't want to raise our kids in the city, so after our honeymoon, Steven [Plofker] and I moved to Montclair, and we never looked back.How did you break into the cosmetic production industry?Working as a makeup artist in the '80s, my first thought wasn’t launching a makeup brand—it was creating a line of lipsticks that were the actual color of people’s lips. They didn’t exist, so I started making them myself. On a photo shoot, I met a chemist who said he could make the lipsticks for me. I then started using them on the models I was making up on shoots and sharing them with some of my beauty friends. They loved them, and those became the 10 original lipsticks that launched Bobbi Brown Cosmetics.Some of your best ideas were born of necessity. What is your favorite “surprise!” product?Miracle Balm is a must-try, multi-purpose product that instantly makes you look better. When I first got the sample from the lab and put it on my cheeks, I looked in the mirror and said, "OMG. This is a miracle." That’s where the name came from—it was such a surprise to even me!Many writers and beauty experts have called Miracle Balm a category-creator because there was nothing like it on the market when we launched it. I'm very proud of that.Where do you find inspiration?I’m endlessly curious. I have a very busy brain. I’m always thinking of new ideas. I don’t have any hobbies–I create things, and that keeps me very engaged. Oh, and my three-year-old granddaughter keeps me constantly inspired. I’m obsessed.Why did you ultimately decide to break from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics/Estée Lauder?Ultimately, it was time. I stayed at Estée Lauder for 22 years as an employee. Most of those years were joyous, creative and invigorating. The ones near the end were tough, and the last year was miserable. When you have a streak, like I did, it’s hard to admit when it’s over. I loved our mission and brand so much, but as I changed, so did the people, and so the decision I made felt right. There's more detail in the book, of course!How did you come up with the name “Jones Road” for your comeback beauty brand?It’s actually very simple. It came from Waze. I didn't have a name for the brand, and I needed one quickly. Two days later, my husband and I were driving in the Hamptons, and I was navigating. I looked down at my Waze map and saw Jones Road, and I thought it sounded like a bespoke English brand. I couldn't use Brown because of the noncompete I’d signed, so I thought I'd use Jones.Why did you decide to headquarter your business in New Jersey?Montclair has been my home for 37 years. I raised my family here, and it's where I've launched all of my latest business ventures: the HQ and flagship Jones Road Beauty store that carries the full collection of the line, and the George, a 31-room boutique hotel on North Mountain Avenue that my husband, Steven Plofker, and I designed together. This vibrant town has it all–culture, art, great food, shopping and, above all, an eclectic mix of amazing people. It’s the most incredible place to live and work.Both your mother and your father gave you life-changing pieces of advice when you were just starting out. What were they?My mother was the one who asked me, “If it were your birthday and you could do anything you wanted, what would you do?” I told her I wanted to go to Marshall Field's and play with makeup. That's when my mom said, "Become a makeup artist." My dad has given me a lot of great advice. When I first moved to New York, I was struggling to make ends meet, and I asked him to teach me how I could cut costs and save money. My dad told me, "Don't learn to cut costs–go out and find ways to make more money." I'm still doing that!The post Why Bobbi Brown Sacrificed ‘Fabulosity’ for Normalcy When Moving to Montclair 40 Years Ago appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_832586" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]You’ll reach for the laid-back Noah button-down shirt ($298), Stelene skirt ($268) and Farrah aviators ($295) again and again; veronicabeard.com.The Dingo 1969 boot with Western stitching is on trend for daytime dressing or evening fun; $179 at anthropologie.com.An oversized silk bandana in a perky pattern elevates any look. Wear it as a neckerchief, hair tie or strapless triangle top; $69 at jcrew.com. The suede Michael belt with brass-ring buckle plays nicely with jeans, corduroys or skirts; $118 at jmclaughlin.com. Madewell’s mini cross-body bag in classic suede with drawstring is perfect for carrying essentials; $158 at bloomingdales.com. Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).The post Tried-and-True Wardrobe Pieces We’re Loving for Fall appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Part air fryer, part oven and totally convenient, this countertop appliance does it all; from $180 at nordstrom.com.This hefty terry robe from Palm Heights and H&M Home has sunny stripes and is comfy for studying or lounging; $179 at hm.com. A multicolored, double-handled basket makes hauling and storing easy; $89.99 at containerstore.com.This leak-proof canister has a sleek silhouette, with separate compartments for wet and dry foods; $19.99 at staples.com. This retro poster is a daily reminder to keep a positive attitude. Available as a poster or canvas print; from $15.95 at posterstore.com. This oversized saucer chair has a foldable metal frame and a plush, faux-fur seat cushion; $80.99 at macys.com. This nylon-and-leather Tumi backpack has adjustable padded straps and is roomy enough for books and a laptop; $379 at anthropologie.com. The post Dorm Essentials Every College Student Needs appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_830736" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]The South Seas rattan side table is versatile enough to use as a bedroom nightstand or a petite cocktail bar; $368 at serenaandlily.com.The St. Tropez lounge chair is crafted from authentic reeds and blue velvet cushions for a coastal vibe; $1,995 at jonathanadler.com. Set your table with handwoven rattan chargers to elevate indoor and outdoor dining. Set of four; $100 at mrsalice.com. Grass-cloth wallpaper adds an organic vibe to any space. From left to right: Somerset, Sisal and Tongli patterns. Prices vary at kravet.com.The Arteriors Blakely pendant light is a raffia wonder in a chic shape; $2,175 at bloomingdales.com. Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).The post Cool, Casual Decor for Laid-Back Living appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
In May, partners Dr. Avi Boodram and Andrei Gurnham opened the first beachfront iteration of Hammer & Nails on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. The franchised concept, introduced on Shark Tank by founder Michael Elliot, features male-centered, spa-inspired services, including haircuts, manicures, pedicures and shaves in a private-club-like atmosphere with cushy seating and adult beverages.How does Hammer & Nails differ from other wellness establishments?Boodram: We focus on the experience more so than increasing our store traffic. Each service is carefully thought out by our corporate partners, and products and processes are then added to truly create an experience.What specialized experiences are offered?Boodram: We have many unique services—for example, the Luxe 24k Haircut Experience. Get sharp with a razor outline, after shave neck massage, lavender steam towels, a cooling CBD scalp massage, and a 24k gold mask for glowing skin. Total reset!Gurnham: Another is the Jack Hammer Foot Treatment, best described as liquid gold from fingers to toes. It’s the ultimate premium manicure and pedicure combo for whiskey fanatics. The Jack Daniels whiskey-infused service includes a warm soak, callus resurfacing, sugar scrub, massage, nail care (clip, file, nip and buff), warm paraffin and our hot-towel wrap.Hammer & Nails offers memberships. How does that work?Boodram: We offer membership-based services with three grooming clubs. Our monthly memberships include a customizable set of services. While not required, members enjoy the most savings on services and products, priority booking, and the ability to share services with friends and family. Walk-ins are welcome, but we recommend calling ahead or scheduling online or via our app.Can members visit any location?Gurnham: That’s right! Once you become a member, you receive the same benefits and privileges across our many locations.What led you to open Hammer & Nails?Boodram: When I was exiting my previous business venture, we brainstormed various ideas before landing on this one. We often admit it was for selfish reasons: We both have a lot of hair, and it’s difficult for us to find a good, reputable salon that works for us—so we figured, why not build our own? During the pandemic, we cut each other’s hair. I think everyone was doing it, but we never stopped. Sometimes you go to a salon for a trim, and they end up cutting too much. We wanted services in peace, and preferably in low lighting, where no one can see us through the front window. Here, the whole idea is to escape and be pampered in a quiet atmosphere with an oversized leather sofa, a stiff drink in hand, noise-cancelling headphones and a big-screen TV—just because we can!Hammer & Nails: 3105 Boardwalk; 609-363-3420.The post AC’s Swankiest Barber Shop Serves Up Booze, Big Screens and VIP Vibes appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The whimsical Lucy cigarette pant offers a blast of color and pattern. Dress it up, dress it down; $328 at francesvalentine.com. Kick back with Katie Kime’s cushy Floret lounging robe; $128 at katiekime.com.Just a spritz of Creed’s Eladaria delivers notes of mandarin and roses; $445 for 75 ml at nordstrom.com.Hit the sand with a jaunty striped beach chair; $299 at bloomingdales.com.Embrace outdoor adventures with fashion-forward Novo novelty sneakers; $268 at freepeople.com. Pickleball is especially fun with graphic Recess paddles; $100 each at anthropologie.com. The post Stylish Finds for the Dog Days of Summer appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_828393" align="alignnone" width="778"] Artist Johanna Younghans makes broken-edge ceramic vases from her Bay Head studio. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]Artist Johanna Younghans has spent her life surrounded by water. With her parents, Jon and Sally, and her younger brother, Jack, she lived full-time in Mountainside, but migrated to the Jersey Shore every summer, spending July and August in Bay Head. From ages 4 to 18 (Younghans is now 25), those months meant living aboard Dauntless, the family’s classic 45-foot cabin cruiser docked on Barnegat Bay. Sharing a tight V-berth with her brother and falling asleep each night to the lapping water made for carefree days and an inspired existence. She was influenced by the ocean and estuaries, pirates and mermaids, seashells and sailboats, ships and shipwrecks—equal parts reality and fantasy.“I was in a bathing suit 24-7,” she says now. “My summer uniform was a life jacket.” Life was idyllic, she admits, sailing, swimming, and immersing herself in maritime lore.Younghans showed an affinity for drawing early on; marrying her love of art and the sea came naturally.“I’ve always been artistically inclined,” Younghans says. “In high school, I sketched all over my homework.” Fortunately, her parents embraced her talent and encouraged her. “They never said, ‘You’re crazy to do this,’” she says. “In fact, they told me I was crazy if I didn’t do this.” At 18, with her parents’ support, she left one coastal town for another, attending the College of Charleston in South Carolina to study art history and fine art.[caption id="attachment_828394" align="alignnone" width="749"] Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]She returned to the Jersey Shore four years later with her degree. Her parents had purchased a mixed-use building in Bay Head. The historic structure had formerly housed Applegate’s Hardware, a beloved five-and-dime store that sold everything from screws to flip-flops, postcards to beach chairs.The building’s owners planned to sell it and retire, but then Superstorm Sandy hit, and the structure was largely decimated. Despite the destruction, Younghans’s parents had continued with their plan. Working closely with the town planning board, they rescued the building, turning a portion of it into a spacious, three-story home, while developing retail space on the ground floor.The massive attic space was a storage warehouse until Younghans swooped in and claimed it as her studio. The top-floor windows look out over Scow Ditch, a serene, brackish waterway that feeds into Barnegat Bay. It was in that studio that Younghans honed her skill of sketching exact, picture-perfect renderings of historic ships, birds, as well as whimsical images of mermaids and sea creatures. Her earliest sketches—line drawings on paper of fantastic figures inspired by the human body (imagine a female with a clamshell head)—sold as quickly as she could draw them. She added egrets, herons and swans—all birds she saw frequently from her studio window—and those, too, were snapped up. Younghans began to realize she might make a living doing this. She quit her part-time retail job and launched into art full-time.[caption id="attachment_828457" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]Younghans began exploring various mediums and discovered a love of clay, eventually learning slab building, a form of pottery that begins with a 25-pound block of clay that she rolls flat, like a pie crust. Naturally, she had to invest in a slab roller and a kiln.“The kiln was my first big-girl purchase,” she says. Placing a kiln, which reaches 2,200 degrees, in a historic wooden and masonry structure was dicey. Fortunately, her dad was unfazed. Early in his career he had taken over his family’s ceramic refractory company (think high-temperature gadgets like crucibles) and was well versed in safety protocols. He quickly set about fireproofing a space for his daughter.Now, Younghans works in her studio each day with various types of clay, creating cream-colored stoneware or bright-white porcelain, depending on what she’s making. Her signature piece, a cylindrical vase in various sizes with natural cracks along the rim, uses stoneware, fired three to four times. “It looks grey when it’s wet, but it turns into a creamy ivory color after firing and glazing,” she explains.[caption id="attachment_828458" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photos: Laura Moss[/caption]She works with a needle tool, sketching mostly in cobalt blue because “the color pops on ivory,” and she loves to add a gold accent. The gold formula is toxic, so she wears a respirator and works in a well-ventilated area when applying it. “I’m obsessed with the gold,” Younghans says. “It’s like pirate’s treasure.”With no storefront, the artist’s business depends on word of mouth, art markets and social media.Each piece she creates is custom-built and drawn, requiring an inordinate amount of detail which, in turn, requires an exorbitant amount of time. She has also produced custom items such as a ceramic tile backsplash with exact images of the owner’s sailboat; dinnerware designed with treasure maps and family landmarks; and a series of bridesmaid gifts with renderings of mermaids that feature the personality traits of each individual recipient.[caption id="attachment_828460" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photos: Laura Moss[/caption]Ever expanding her repertoire, Younghans is considering making lamp bases and has collaborated with local interior designers. “This whole community has been so supportive,” says the versatile maker. “I don’t want to put myself in a box. Right now, it’s all about ceramics. Clay is my current canvas, but it could lead into something else.”Younghans’s current goal is to have enough inventory on hand to sell in retail outlets, but she rarely has adequate stock. It’s a nice problem to have.Each summer, Younghans relocates her studio to Dauntless, her childhood summer home. Being on the water still provides the most inspiration. “The creative process often goes in a direction that I don’t control, but water is always a big thing,” she says. “If I lived somewhere else, I don’t know what it’d be, but right now, I really like the nautical thing.”For more info, follow @dauntlessbyjohanna on Instagram.Lauren Payne is the former Home & Garden editor at New Jersey Monthly and is a frequent contributor.The post Jersey Shore Artist Crafts One-of-a-Kind Nautical Ceramics appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
When Alex Faherty and his brother, Mike, were kids, they spent much of their free time surfing at the Jersey Shore. Their idyllic childhood in Spring Lake and Manasquan, highlighted by all-day surf sessions and bonfires on the beach, inspired the clothes that they wore—loose, comfortable attire that was also stylish—very much like the Faherty clothing brand that they would eventually launch years later.But while they are identical twins, their other interests were quite different. Alex was into sports and saving money, while Mike was into clothes. Mike even began to advise his brother on what to wear to school every day.In high school, Mike wrote his college essay about starting a clothing line and went on to major in fashion design at Washington University in St. Louis before spending years in New York’s fashion industry. Alex attended Yale University, where he played football and majored in political science.By their twenties, the brothers had decided they wanted to start a clothing brand together. But first, they needed experience. Alex spent years working in investment banking and private equity, while Mike designed clothing for Ralph Lauren and traveled the world, building relationships with factories.When they turned 30, the pair knew the time was right to launch their first collection. “Mike called me while he was on a road trip and said, ‘I’m ready to start the brand,’” remembers Alex. That was in 2012.The following year, Faherty was born. The brand first launched online and, in 2016, they opened their first flagship store in Malibu, California. They also launched a catalog.[caption id="attachment_828438" align="alignnone" width="778"] Alex Faherty Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Catalano[/caption]Now, a decade-plus later, the brothers’ drive and savvy have made Faherty one of the fastest growing clothing companies in the country. This is especially notable at a time when many other brands are shrinking or shutting down. The company has 79 stores nationwide, including five in New Jersey, and five more slated to open in the United States this year. The brand can also be found in stores such as Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. With 500 employees and an ever-growing business, Faherty is a Garden State success story.The business is a family affair. The pair started the company with Alex’s wife, Kerry Docherty, a lawyer with a background in human rights and mindfulness, who leads their impact and Native initiatives (she is also the chief impact officer). Their mother, Ninie Norris, an interior decorator, is their store designer.While Alex and Mike, now 42, both moved to Brooklyn after starting their business, the pull of the Jersey Shore was strong enough for Alex that he and Kerry decided to move their family, including their two young children, back to Spring Lake last year. As well as running the business, Alex coaches his kids’ sports teams, and surfs with his children whenever he gets a chance.In 2024, the twins opened Sun and Waves, their first restaurant and café, in Spring Lake. With its surfboards and laid-back vibes (their mother designed the café, too), it fits right in with the unique Faherty aesthetic. And a Faherty clothing shop is just down the street.The story of the company’s origin goes back to the twins’ childhood. “Since my brother, Mike, was a little kid, he always loved clothes. He loved shopping for clothes, and he loved telling me what to wear,” remembers Alex, who is CEO of the company. “I mean, every single morning, he was making sure I had the right outfit on. He just had this incredible style since we were little kids.”[caption id="attachment_828433" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Courtesy of Faherty[/caption]They bought most of their clothes at surf shops in Spring Lake. But when they were 13, their parents moved the family to New York City.All of a sudden, these Jersey Shore kids found themselves living in the big city—and there weren’t any surf stores around where they could shop. Mike would wander through department stores, checking out the designer clothing and beautiful materials. He appreciated the quality of the products, although he knew they weren’t his style. But those early years in New York City fueled his passion for high-quality fabrics, which he still applies to the clothes he designs today for Faherty.“We grew up in Spring Lake for the first half of our young lives, so I definitely had the identity of an outdoorsy, surfer kid,” says Mike, the creative director for the company. “But seeing the clothes at places like Bloomingdale’s, and all the contemporary clothing in New York—I had never really experienced that before. And I realized there were clothes out there that felt way better than my clothes. They didn’t necessarily look like the clothes I wanted to wear, though.”At heart, they were both surfer kids from the Jersey Shore.“Our style is a combination of the life we grew up with in Spring Lake and the beautiful, soft fabrics he discovered,” says Alex.Faherty sells clothing for men, women and children, including swimwear, using fabrics that are soft and comfortable. Many of the designs are a nod to the surfing culture of the brothers’ youth.Fortunately, while living in New York they were able to continue spending their summers and weekends in Spring Lake, since their parents kept their house there.From a young age, the pair always knew that one day, they were going to start their own company.“Mike was always going to be the designer, and I was going to be the business brother since we were really little kids. I was always the one that saved money; I was very fiscally responsible. I loved making money and always had little jobs. I was kind of like the big brother, even though we’re twins,” says Alex.It’s the twin power that makes their clothing brand so successful, says Jim Scully, a Faherty board member who has been a mentor to Alex over the years and is an investor in the company. He was formerly chief operating officer at J. Crew and interim chief executive officer at J. Jill.“They are both smart, grounded and very genuine. I was taken by how much the brand reflected their lifestyle and how sincere and real that was. Some companies don’t have that level of genuineness, and I thought that was impressive,” he says.Scully says there are few current retail companies that have achieved the scale of success that Faherty has, with the same level of profitability.“What’s hard for people to wrap their head around is that in the world of retail, you have the commercial side of the business and the creative side, and there’s typically a lot of tension there,” he says. “What creates the magic for the Faherty brand is that they’re twins. And with the symbiotic relationship they have—with Alex’s wife, Kerry, being the third wheel—that’s what really differentiates them and is probably one of the biggest reasons they were able to grow so quickly.”Much of the inspiration for the brand comes from the brothers’ childhood memories of summers at the Jersey Shore, with barbecues and big family gatherings in the backyard of the Fahertys’ rambling old Spring Lake Victorian house. They grew up with a blended family (their mother remarried), comprising three girls and four boys.“I have these visceral memories of summer in Spring Lake. We’d have these barbecues with 40 people on Saturdays at our house, and I just remember the happiness and the joy,” remembers Mike.In fact, when he’s designing for their clothing line, he sometimes visualizes what people were wearing at certain moments in his formative years. “I’ll think, What were we wearing at that barbecue? What were we wearing at the beach? And when it’s Monday, and you’re getting on the ferry from Rumson to get to work in the city, and you have your Faherty shirt on, you might think—this isn’t so bad, because this shirt reminds me of the weekend.”“We use the saying, capturing life’s great moments, with the brand, and I think summer at the Jersey Shore is so essential to that,” he says.What does the future hold for the business? “We named it Faherty because I want to do this forever as a family name brand,” says Mike. “I hope it will be something that we can pass down to the next generation. I just want to create something that I love for as long as I can.”The post How Surfer Twins Built Faherty, a Clothing Brand With Jersey Shore Soul appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
“I believe your home should feel as beautiful and personal as the life you live in it," says Mary Kull, the new owner of MK Linens & Home, formerly known as A. HOME. Located in the heart of Summit, the store is widely known as a destination for those who appreciate luxurious linens and elevated home decor.The shop has been an integral part of Kull’s life for nearly 15 years, first during her time as a salesperson and then as store manager, collaborating closely with the previous owner, Ashley Moos. “When I first found out Ashley was thinking of selling the store, I thought, OMG, I want to buy it!” Summit is particularly near and dear to Kull because she attended Oak Knoll School, married at Beacon Hill Club, and, with her husband Gary, raised their three daughters a stone’s throw from the store.Although the business name recently changed to reflect new ownership, the upscale inventory remains focused on fine bedding and bath-towel collections from Matouk, Sferra andJohn Robshaw; handpicked lighting, tabletop accessories, wall art, vases and pillows; and exclusive lines like Vanguard Furniture and Juliska. Since buying the shop, Kull has also added a fine-jewelry line and a small inventory of colorful summer clothing and hats.“Whether you’re refreshing your dream bedroom, reimagining your entire home, or shopping for a cute dress, we can provide personalized service and a warm, welcoming experience,” the shopkeeper says. Complimentary styling sessions and wedding registries are also available.“Downtown Summit is a wonderful place to work, and I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of this vibrant and supportive community,” Kull says. “After raising our family in Summit, it’s a dream come true to own a storefront here.”MK Linens & Home: 11 Beechwood Road, Summit; 908-273-3737.The post Popular Summit Boutique Enters a New Era appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
On a quest to soothe her persistent acne, Nicole Moore discovered tallow-based products and began a wellness and business journey.Her company, Clara & Fritz, based in Mullica Hill, hand produces various sundries, from lip balm to sun protection to face and body moisturizers, that place rendered beef fat in the forefront.The use of tallow has been in the news recently. Can you tell us what it is and why you began working with it?Tallow is rendered beef fat and has been used for centuries as a deeply nourishing moisturizer. It only fell out of favor with the rise of cheaper, synthetic alternatives—both in skin care and cooking. My journey to creating these products began out of personal necessity. After years of struggling with acne well into my 30s and trying countless “clean” skin-care lines with little success, I finally made my own tallow-based moisturizer—and I never looked back. It was the first thing that truly worked for my skin, and that experience sparked the entire line.Why does tallow benefit skin?It is uniquely compatible with human skin because its composition closely resembles our own natural sebum, because it contains fatty acids that absorb easily, nourish deeply, and support the skin’s natural barrier. It’s non-comedogenic [won’t clog pores] and provides a nontoxic, effective alternative to synthetic moisturizers. Tallow is also naturally rich in vitamins like A, which supports cell turnover, and vitamin E, known to offer antioxidant protection, as well as vitamins D and K that contribute to elasticity, moisture retention and healing.Tell us about your collection.Clara & Fritz’s tallow line is completely synthetic- and paraben-free. Studies have shown that what you put on your skin is absorbed by your body and ends up in your bloodstream. Many skin-care products—even some of those billed as clean—contain ingredients that can cause endocrine disruptions, allergic reactions and more. For my scented products, I add essential oils to take advantage of their positive, health-promoting properties, as well as their scent profiles.Are there specific skin conditions that tallow benefits?Tallow is beneficial for all skin types, but it’s especially soothing for sensitive, irritated or reactive skin. Its gentle, nutrient-rich profile makes it ideal for those looking for simple yet powerful skin care—whether you’re dealing with dryness, eczema, or just want to support a healthy skin barrier.What about sun protection?Our Summer Balm is a natural, mineral-based sunscreen made with 20 percent zinc oxide. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb into the skin, it sits on the surface to physically block UV rays. Because of this, it may need to be reapplied, depending on sun exposure and individual sensitivity. It’s best used alongside other sun-safe habits, like wearing a hat or seeking shade during peak sun hours.What is the most surprising quality of tallow?Tallow is generally well tolerated and safe for all skin types. What surprises most people is how incredibly simple and yet versatile it is. Beyond being a powerful moisturizer, we also use it as a base for products like soaps, deodorants, lip balms and more. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most effective solutions are the most elemental.Clara & Fritz Tallow Shop: 34 North Main Street, Mullica Hill; 856-264-0007.The post Is Beef Fat the Secret to Great Skin? This NJ Brand Swears By It appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
If boho chic is your summer vibe, step inside Lola’s Boutique in downtown Point Pleasant Beach to discover a curated mix of favorite labels like Free People, Dear John Denim, ASTR The Label and Latico Leathers.Think nontraditional beachwear all under one roof, but with three distinct storefronts. One room offers fresh retail looks, while the other two spaces are dedicated exclusively to one-of-a-kind sample treasures that typically sell fast.Owner Marla Morris says, “This summer’s go-to beach looks are fun, flirty, floral dresses and coordinated shorts and pants sets. We love colorful patterns, layering and over-accessorizing. In fact, sometimes the accessories are the outfit!”Lola’s personal stylists are on hand to help shoppers discover their beach-babe style in clothing, shoes and accessories.The boutique actively participates in fun community events like ladies’ nights and Festival of the Sea.Lola’s Boutique, 635 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach; 732-899-7884.The post Point Pleasant Beach Shop Features Boho-Chic Style appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The Lana bikini top ($75-$85) and Hallie bottom ($65-$75) are a cheery combo in a heritage-inspired silhouette; J.Crew stores and jcrew.com. Mix, don’t match, with a crocheted Club shirt ($168), yellow Lowen midi skirt ($60), and Clara canvas tote ($58); Free People stores and freepeople.com.Bold retro stripes lend this iPhone case its summer vibes. Choose from striped or color-blocked patterns; $58 at katiekime.com. Bartleby sunnies with polarized lenses are a classic choice, available in cool frame options; $138 at J.McLaughlin stores and jmclaughlin.com. Velvety Melissa fisherman sandals take you from the surf to shopping to supper; $39-$47 at Urban Outfitters stores or urbanoutfitters.com. The post Stylish Pieces to Wear All Summer Long appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Every other spring, designers and home-decor enthusiasts from New Jersey and New York make a pilgrimage to the Mansion in May Designer Showhouse and Gardens. This year, the popular event, which attracts more than 22,000 visitors and hundreds of volunteers, happens at Wildfair, in the heart of Chester Township. Mansion in May is the signature fundraiser for the Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center.Once a sprawling farm and mill, Wildfair is rich in history that dates back to 1804. In 1934, Elizabeth and Harry Bowly Hollins III of New York acquired the property and hired the Philadelphia firm of Willing, Sims & Talbutt to modify the original stone farmhouse to create a rambling retreat. In the mid-1990s, a subsequent owner retained architect Hiland Hall Turner and Eberle Builders to design and construct further additions, creating the bucolic country estate that stands today.The elaborate design event involves 38 accomplished interior designers, 13 top landscape designers, and 650 volunteers working more than 15,000 hours. Since 1974, Mansion in May has hosted 20 venues and amassed nearly $14 million, significantly enriching the programs and infrastructure of Morristown Medical Center. Proceeds from Wildfair will support the new Proton Therapy Center at Morristown Medical Center, changing the landscape of cancer care.“Mansion in May always attracts prestigious interior designers,” says Kathy Ross, the event’s co-chair. “We are looking forward to opening the doors to Wildfair on May 1 and revealing the exquisitely designed spaces from this year’s talented and dedicated professionals.”Visit mansioninmay.org for tickets, which are $50 in April and $55 in May. Ticket holders are invited to visit the mansion and landscaped gardens, shop in the boutiques, and enjoy a gourmet boxed lunch on the grounds in the café. Mansion hours are 10 am to 4 pm, seven days a week throughout May. (Last entry to the mansion is at 3 pm.) On-site parking is not available. A free shuttle is provided from off-site parking at 80 West Main Street in Mendham.Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post Mansion in May 2025: Get Tickets Now for This Tour de Force in Chester Township appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Turquoise drops dangle with pale blossoms on these earrings by Joanna Buchanan; $248 at joannabuchanan.com. [caption id="attachment_823242" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]This line is called Boy Smells, but the appeal of these fresh, floral and fruity candles is enchanting to all; $48 at nordstrom.com. These bright cutting boards are artful enough to hang; $43 at beanandbemble.com.A Disney-inspired meadow of wildflowers, birds and a doe decorate these pastel boxes; $17.99 for the set at hm.com. A gray-and-marigold print gives these comfy, leather-bottom slides a sunny, vintage feel; $61 at bohemiadesign.co.uk. Wear this strapless jacquard number everywhere—it works with heels or flats; $595 at milly.com. No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post 6 Mother’s Day Gifts She’ll Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_823427" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Think sweet and salty. A preppy striped cardi with demure bow ($220) plays nicely with funky leopard cargo jeans ($155); anthropologie.com. No matchy-matchy here. A complementary pair of plaids are pre-clashed in this whimsical patchwork turtleneck ($49); urbanoutfitters.com. It’s a balancing act. This large-scale-print hoodie ($128) is a cool counterpoint to pinstriped, harem-inspired pants ($60); freepeople.com. Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).[RELATED: Après in Bernardsville a One-Stop Shop for Stylish Kids]No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post How to Partake in the Pattern-Clashing Trend This Spring appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Downtown Bernardsville is especially bright and cheery since the opening of Après, a shop designed for stylish kiddos.Après (meaning “after” in French) is the brainchild of three moms who balance work and family with their combined seven children, ages 3–8. Attorney Lindsay Johnson, speech pathologist Whitney Hagan, and retailer/event planner Vicky DiGiorgio became fast friends after meeting when their oldest children were in nursery school.“Our retail shop is our personal après after having babies,” says Hagan. “We all had the desire to start something that gave us the flexibility we needed while allowing us to use our combined creativity.” Johnson adds, “Shoppers have embraced us for kids’ clothing 2T through tween, gifting items, unique toys and accessories.” Après encourages in-person browsing and also offers a shoppable website that will ship anywhere.“Because of our diverse backgrounds, we’re able to look at business in three different ways, and it’s actually a beautiful thing,” says DiGiorgio, who formerly worked with New Jersey fashion influencer Teggy French.The store is located at 20 Olcott Square and is open Tuesday through Saturday. You can shop online at apresnj.com or visit the store on Instagram (@apresnj).Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post Après in Bernardsville a One-Stop Shop for Stylish Kids appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Vinyl is back with music lovers of all ages! “It’s not a retro thing at all," says music journalist Adam Budofsky, founder of Sweet Vinyl Café, a record shop and café in Denville. "[Records are] here to stay.”Across New Jersey, dozens of shops offer stacks of LPs, where customers can spend hours leafing through dusty treasures and new gems alike. Here are a few of our favorites.Sweet Vinyl Café in DenvilleThis shop is half-café, half-shop. Enjoy a coffee and some sweets while you peruse records old and new. It's a space where music lovers can relax and connect.23 Diamond Spring Road; 973-453-6443Princeton Record Exchange in PrincetonBuying and selling music since the '80s, Princeton Record Exchange boasts an abundance of genres that’ll keep browsers busy for hours. In addition to vinyl, including a $1 section, there are CDs, DVDs and more.20 South Tulane Street; 609-921-0881Station 1 Books & Vinyl in Pompton LakesThis store is situated in a former historic train station—a giant caboose sits right next door! There's a wide variety of vinyl records, plus books, CDs, VHSes and video-game cartridges.1 Station Plaza; 973-307-0212Inner Groove Records in CollingswoodUsed vinyl is Inner Groove’s specialty. Looking to sell? The staff will sort and grade your LPs. The shop also makes one-of-a-kind reissues of rare classic records.798 Haddon Avenue; 856-559-6034Soldato Books & Records in RutherfordNow operating out of Rutherford's iconic Williams Center, and inspired by international bookstores, Soldato is a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for underground artists.15 Sylvan Street; 551-243-1859[RELATED: 50 Fun Things to Do on a Rainy Day in New Jersey]No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post 5 Great Record Stores in New Jersey appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
A curved maple-and-walnut wooden chess set and its companion pieces put a new spin on keeping your eyes on the board; $300 at umbra.com. In this Jersey-centric drinking board game, players pay tolls, take sobriety tests and make rules along the way; $29.99 at truejersey.com.Game night has never been prettier than when these William Morris wallpaper-inspired playing cards are in the mix; $16.91 at vam.ac.uk.This backgammon set is handsome enough for display. It features a zebra-striped, cognac-colored playing board; $425 at jonathanadler.com. This DIY kit includes everything needed to create an original, colorful, multistrand band for an Apple watch; $24 at anthropologie.com. [RELATED: 50 Fun Things to Do on a Rainy Day in New Jersey]No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post 5 Fun Items for Your Next Game Night appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_821543" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]This Tessa bar cart is at the ready for serving spirits. A sturdy frame and three glass-shelved tiers provide storage, and wheels make it mobile; $999 at ballarddesigns.com. Innovative, teabag-inspired sachets are cold brewed for a low-cal, fruity, botanically delicious mixer. Add spirits or enjoy alone; $14.99 at drinksayso.com. A debonair cast of characters joins the fun on these black-and-white, fired-porcelain coasters accented in gold; $75 at jonathanadler.com. An Italian-designed parrot corkscrew displays a colorful mosaic of plumage and will give guests plenty to talk about; $80 at alessi.com.A botanical answer for mocktails, the Spice 94 variety is a kicked up aromatic blend of allspice and cardamom; $31.99 at seedlipdrinks.com. [caption id="attachment_821473" align="alignnone" width="778"] Helena_Desenio[/caption]Toast to this dynamic, jewel-toned cocktail-inspired print from artist Julia Ockert; $29.95 at juliaockert.com. Horn-topped tiger's-eye cocktail picks by Joanna Buchanan are a stylish way to garnish a beverage; $128 at joannabuchanan.com. Sugar cubes in flavors such as rose petal, orange-zest cherry, and cinnamon vanilla will give a sweet lift to alcoholic drinks, mocktails, teas and coffee; $16 at storiedgoods.com. No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post 8 Chic Items to Upgrade Your Home Bar appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_820084" align="alignnone" width="778"] Meg and Mike Affa run Vine Garden & Gift in Toms River, where customers can peruse plants, flowers and gifts in addition to ordering coffee, tea and locally made baked goods. Photo: Courtesy of Deidre Holly[/caption]"My husband has always pushed me to open my own business. When I first told him my vision to sell coffee and plants, he said, ‘Who buys plants?’ I told him, ‘Lots of people!’” says owner Meg Affa. So the couple opened Vine Garden & Gift last fall, and Toms River locals “immediately embraced us,” adds the self-taught floral designer.Husband Mike Affa says, “Our retail venture is exciting, and I’m so proud of Meg. It’s really her show. I just lend moral support, go out for milk, and run to the bank when we need change.” Mike is also the owner of a digital marketing company.“He’s the business brain, and I’m the creative soul,” Meg adds. Vine Garden & Gift is loaded with houseplants, flowers, handpicked gifts and “good coffee.” The menu includes seasonal coffees, such as a cardamom rose latte for Valentine’s Day, as well as gourmet teas and locally made scones, tarts and muffins.[caption id="attachment_820092" align="alignnone" width="777"] Photo: Courtesy of Deidre Holly[/caption]Meg first envisioned her own shop in 2014, when her friend who owned Melinda’s flower shop in Lavallette needed help on Valentine’s Day. “When I worked for Melinda, I was setting up a wedding in Spring Lake when I saw and fell in love with a parking lot full of Atlock Farm topiary plants. Now, I sell Atlock’s myrtle, rosemary and lavender topiaries in my own shop,” she says. Vine also offers angel-vine plants, ferns, ivy, succulents, grab-n-go flower bouquets, luxury gardening tools and curated gift baskets.As Valentine’s Day approaches, Mike reminisces, “When I first saw Megan in seventh grade, I thought she was the prettiest girl ever.” But they didn’t actually meet until freshman year at Toms River East High School. They went to senior prom together, started dating in 1998, got engaged in 2013, and married in 2021.[caption id="attachment_819998" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Courtesy of Deidre Holly[/caption]When the couple launched their business, they hired Dana Dore and Lindsey Vogel of the Sandhill Co. to develop their brand and create an in-shop experience “where beauty, intention and community flourish,” Meg says.For Valentine’s Day, Vine is selling blooms, candles, chocolate, botanical-inspired jewelry and heart-shaped topiaries. In coming months, the couple will host fun activities such as a farmers market, floral workshops, and fairy gardens for kids.Vine Garden & Gift, 783 Fischer Boulevard, Toms River; 732-908-8463 • @shopvine.njFollow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).The post NJ High School Sweethearts Run a Charming Shop in Toms River appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_819678" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Choose the initial personalization on this pale-pink, vegan-leather journal with a handsome leather-tie close; $78 at anthropologie.com. Tory Burch’s top-handled crossbody emblazoned with the crowning logo on front; $248 at nordstrom.com. Lush, colorful Italian silk scarves have a bevy of stylish uses for the fashion-forward; $185 each at thestripescompany.us.This leopard all-weather coat sports a high, wide collar for styling up or down and a belt tie; $349 at hm.com.Toast your sweetie with these precious fluted champagne glasses with chartreuse stems accented by a kiss of scarlet; $109 at mustardmade.com.A gorgeous testament to unconventional pairings, this amethyst ring from Jane Taylor features a classic baguette and sparkling heart; $2,015 at londonjewelers.com. No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_817866" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Set up a regal perch with this enchanting chaise with branch-like frame, upholstered seat and bejeweled bolsters; $9,200 at bykoket.com. The leather Como chair is sleek enough to flank a table or stand alone; $1,799 at roomandboard.com.A stylized arthropod forms the centerpiece of this gem-colored dining chair with delicate, shiny, gold-finished legs; $3,208 at covethouse.eu.The personality-plus Astrid armchair offers a bounty of embroidered botanicals and fanciful Queen Anne legs; $799 at grandinroad.com.The Arc chair, upholstered in faux sheepskin, has a soft, nubby texture, a generous seat, and modern spindle legs; $1,535 at satara.com.au.The Andres chair gets its name from the curved terrain of its upholstered back. Custom fabrics available; call for prices at brabbu.com. [RELATED: Chic and Cozy Pieces to Elevate Your Guest Room]No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post 6 Statement Chairs to Jazz Up Your Home appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
"Color on cabinets paired with warm woods is a lasting trend."—Campbell Minister of Campbell Minister Design in Montclair“For an open-concept space, marry colors from one side of the room to the other for a cohesive, gentle flow. Even just a splash of accent color in a pillow or lamp can create a harmonious marriage.”—Angela B. Sweeney of Kravet Workspace in Basking Ridge“Be on the lookout for playful shapes in mirrors, tables and lighting. Curves, waves and even teardrops are turning up and giving a modern but organic edge to furniture and storage pieces.”—Caitlin Rutkay of C.R. Interior Designs in Tewksbury Township[caption id="attachment_817839" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Courtesy of Tom Grimes Photography[/caption]“Balance, symmetry and sight lines are important and should be considered early in the design process.”—CJ Mapletoft and Dana Miller of Mapletoft and Miller in Bedminster“In 2025, we’re seeing more painted ceilings and also the use of fabric in nontraditional applications. For instance, consider using fabric within cabinetry panels or as an unexpected wallcovering.”—Maureen Ursino of Ursino Interiors in Colts Neck“Indoor/outdoor living is critical in our projects. We design with oversized windows and glass doors, and create outdoor spaces as functional extensions of indoor spaces.”—Michael Mroz of Michael Robert Construction in Westfield“We’re seeing a resurgence of various shades of purple in wallpaper and wall colors. Whether it’s rich eggplant or soft lavender, these shades feel fresh and inspiring.”—Sarah Elizabeth of Sarah Elizabeth Design in Montclair“Bold wallpaper in a powder room adds impact. Make a big statement in a small space with a rich color palette and an unexpected pattern.”—Kerry Seely of Kerry Seely Design in Randolph“Exciting trends are bold caramel, chocolate, sea-foam and olive-green palettes; curved edges on furniture; rattan elements; and seamless technology like hidden wall speakers and voice-controlled lighting.”—Kate Curran of Kate Designs, LLC, in Martinsville“Adding color and interest with printed lampshades is a quick way to change the feel of a room. Vintage lamps and simple sconces are new again, with fun, patterned shades.”—Deirdre Carlough of Carlough & Co. Design in Glen RidgeFollow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post NJ Designers Share Top Home Trends for 2025 appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_816664" align="alignnone" width="778"] The holiday market in Montclair's historic Lackawanna Station.. Photo: Red Root Marketing[/caption]For the first time since the Pathmark supermarket closed in 2015, the abandoned shopping mall at Montclair’s Lackawanna Station is bustling.A pop-up holiday market, featuring 200+ vendors of crafts, clothes, jewelry, fresh produce, books, baked goods and art, now occupies the mall’s 100,000 square feet of vacant space. It's open every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm, through Sunday, January 19.The market is run by local developer David Placek, whose company, BDP Holdings, partnered with Montclair Flea (a consortium of area businesses) to transform the defunct mall into a one-stop holiday shopping destination. They’ve freshened the space, hung holiday lights, and added restrooms and five food trucks, including Little Bear Poké and Burgers Doughnuts Potatoes (home of the “doughnut burger”). Coming soon: a wine shop and two bars serving seasonal drinks and craft beers. Art will be on display throughout the space.In addition to gift and food vendors, there are holiday-specific services, such as gift wrapping (courtesy of the Montclair Aging Collective) and Christmas trees, wreaths and poinsettias (sold by a local Boy Scout troop.)[RELATED: NJ’s Holiday Markets to Explore This Season]Placek's plans to develop the historic site’s nearly 9 acres with more than 300 apartments and retail shops have been plagued by delays, so the holiday project is a “pop-up incubator,” explains Jason Gleason, vice president of community development at BDP Holdings, and former executive director of the Montclair Center Business Improvement District. "We want to do something with the property between now and when we are afforded the opportunity to redevelop."After the holiday pop-up closes, some businesses are expected to stay in the space—and come spring, the number of food trucks will grow to eight. One of the businesses that will stay and expand is Ironbound Market, run by Montclair resident Charles Rosen, who owns Ironbound Hard Cider company and Ironbound Farm and Ciderhouse in Asbury. The market will sell produce and meat, plus prepared and packaged foods, sourced from local farmers.BDP Holdings also plans to open a co-working space in the mall this spring called the Rec Room, with private and open spaces as well as meeting rooms.Montclair officials approved BDP Holdings's renovation plan in 2023, but the project is the subject of two lawsuits. Gleason said he expects to host pop-ups in the space for the next three to five years.No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post Montclair’s Pop-Up Holiday Market Boasts 200+ Vendors, Plus Food Trucks and Bars appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_459918" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the institutions[/caption]Molded art glass pines from Mosser Glass in red carnival and milkglass, respectively; $48 each at shop.wheatonarts.org.Since the 1970s, Rosenthal has been creating distinctive Judaica pieces, such as the blended metals and fused glass dreidel; $137.50 at shop.wheatonarts.org. The Mage See-Through bluetooth device has dual speakers, a warm-yellow, dimmable light, and comes in matte black or walnut wood finish; $120, at princetonmuseumstore.org.Handcrafted in bronze with topaz stones, these reef-inspired, limited-edition earrings are by artist Julie Cohn; $295 at princetonmuseumstore.org. Colorful, fluted blown-glass ornaments are handcrafted at the WheatonArts glass studio; $30 each at shop.wheatonarts.org. Stride with style in socks inspired by iconic artists. Choose from Basquiatoe, Frida Callus (pictured) and Andy Sock-Hole socks; $14 at shopnewarkmuseumart.org. Handmade from saddle leather, this sculptural bracelet is designed by boutique jewelry maker Oropopo; $215 at shopnewarkmuseumart.org. Wooden balls magically cling together with special connectors on this toy for all ages that allows for countless configurations; $35 at shopnewarkmuseumart.org. This rendition of New Jersey artist Willie Cole’s acclaimed outdoor bronze sculpture, Sole Sitter, stands 8.25 inches tall and is rendered in durable resin; $150 at shopnewarkmuseumart.org.An artistically rendered teapot designed for loose leaves, features a V-shaped spout and comfortable grip; $35 at shopnewarkmuseumart.org.A card deck with 140 trivia questions tests players’ knowledge of art, from ancient to contemporary works; $12 at princetonmuseumstore.org.Kids aged 8-plus can assemble this crab-like robot that walks and even detects table edges to avoid falls; $22 at Morris Museum in Morristown (973-971-3700). The Jaqueline earring studs feature raw amethyst stones in four colors in gold-plated settings by Sonya Maizell; $36 at Morris Museum in Morristown (973-971-3700).An illustrated, alphabetic resource to introduce kids to the world of art; $20 at princetonmuseumstore.org. Want more holiday present ideas? Peruse our main gift guide here, and our roundup of New Jersey-themed books here. Want more museum content? Check out our statewide guide to under-the-radar spots here.No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post NJ Museum Gift Shops Offer One-of-a-Kind Holiday Presents appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_459451" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Venus et Fleur offers a bountiful bouquet of long-lasting red roses; $399 at nordstrom.com. Rebel Rebel pearl and turquoise earrings wow in 18-karat gold-plated silver with lightweight baroque pearls; $216 at 1stdibs.com. Botanical print kimono-style robe is all-day lounge worthy; $119 at hm.com. Surprise guests with Joanna Buchanan stainless-steel straws with glass snowflakes. Gift boxed; $76 at A.Home in Summit. Are they a slipper or a clog? You decide. The Taz Uggs feature a soft suede exterior, a cushy wool interior, and a rugged platform sole; $130 at JT Murdoch Shoes in Bloomfield (973-748-6484). The Porsamo Bleu Karolina timepiece has diamond hour markers, topaz bezels and leather strap; $230 at macys.com. Adopt a felted critter ornament for your tree. Available in a menagerie; $12 each at Montclair’s urbannatural.com. Chase the cold with a Sherpa hooded flannel shirt jacket; $90 at hawkeandco.com. Add humor to your table with playful white placecards or adhere to a fun card; 16 for $20 at MarrantPaperCo on Etsy. Proceeds benefit NJ charities. Viking Revolution beard balm is an all-natural stocking stuffer available in a variety of gift sets. Prices vary at vikingrevolution.com.The Kalahari leather tote is a good-looking yet rugged travel companion; $398 at ivycove.com. Handmade ceramic mugs from a local nonprofit that trains and employs women in need; $32, mudgirlsstudios.org. Metal artist Michael Aram’s olive-branch serving spoons will add a touch of elegance on any table; $120 at CBL Fine Art in West Orange (973-736-7776). Drinkmate OmniFizz carbonates any beverage, including sparkling teas and fizzy cocktails; $133 on amazon.com.Atlantic City’s Little Water Distillery offers a ready-to-go espresso and chocolate martinis; $35.99 at totalwine.com or 609-344-7867. Jersey-centric travertine marble coasters, $14 each; wooden holder, $16 at Just Jersey in Morristown (973-590-2820). Seventies sentiments embellish hand-needlepointed pillows backed in luxe velvet; $98 at jonathanadler.com. The chic, versatile cashmere travel wrap is available in a rainbow of colors; $350 at whiteandwarren.com. Illuminate your home with a hand-poured Duet candle with matchbox; $44 at duetcandles.com. Want more holiday present ideas? Peruse our museum-shop gift guide here, and our roundup of New Jersey-themed books here. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post Holiday Gift Guide 2024: Foolproof Ideas for Everyone on Your List appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Does This Taste Funny?Stephen Colbert and Evie McGee ColbertHarperCollinsWhile stuck together at home during the pandemic, Late Show host Stephen Colbert and his wife, Evie McGee Colbert, collaborated on both filming his show and cooking nearly every meal. The Montclair-based couple, married for 31 years, admit to having very different cooking styles—he’s an “improviser” and she’s a “rule follower”—but somehow, they make it work. This charming and cozy cookbook is a testament to their success: a harmonious, humorous and satisfying blend of photographs, family stories and recipes, many influenced by the pair’s shared roots in coastal South Carolina. —Kate TuttleRoctogenarians: Late in Life Debuts, Comebacks and TriumphsMo Rocca and Jonathan GreenbergSimon & SchusterCBS Sunday Morning correspondent Mo Rocca and Montclair State professor Jonathan Greenberg (Mobituaries) team up again to look at inspiring late-in-life stories, from Henri Matisse to Mel Brooks. Estelle Getty was 62 when she got her big break on The Golden Girls, and Sophia Loren returned to films in her eighties—to rave reviews. —Jacqueline MrozHoney: A NovelVictor LodatoHarperCollinsHoney Fasinga, the glamorous daughter of a notorious New Jersey mobster, now in her twilight years, returns home after decades in Los Angeles. Unexpectedly, she falls in love. But in Honey’s family, nothing has changed. As old cruelties begin to resurface, Honey isn’t sure what she wants—to forgive or to avenge. Lodato, who grew up in Little Ferry, is the recipient of the PEN USA Award for fiction and NEA and Guggenheim fellowships. —Julia MartinThe Best Grandmother Names EverCathy LivingstoneSourcebooksChances are, the grandmother-to-be on your list does not want to be called Grandma. So gift her this tiny tome, filled with hipper suggestions, like celeb names Gogo (Katie Couric), Gaia (Gail King) and Glamma (Real Housewives star NeNe Leakes); international names (such as Oma and Babi), and grandma-grandpa name pairs (Yaya and Papa, Lolly and Pop). —J. MartinBecause It’s Funny!Billy Van ZandtVan Zandt/Milmore Productions IIThe playwright and actor looks back on his 46-year writing-acting-producing partnership with the late Jane Milmore, and their catalog of 25 plays. Van Zandt, who grew up in Middletown and is the brother of musician/TV star Steven Van Zandt, references his Jersey roots, and the multi-talented cast of local comedians who became an ensemble company and artistic family. —James LaForgeConnieConnie ChungGrand Central PublishingMany people have seen groundbreaking journalist Connie Chung on TV, but her memoir offers a chance for the public to read her full story. It’s an interesting one, from her family leaving China to her marriage to Maury Povich and the adoption of their son. It’s an engaging read, seamlessly employing a balance of serious and funny. Chung and Povich had a home in Middletown for years, and a Parkway rest stop is named for her. —Julie GordonBelieve in the World: Wisdom for Grown-Ups From Children’s BooksCollected by Amy Gash and Elise HowardAlgonquin BooksThis small, slender volume slips easily into a Christmas stocking or pocketbook, but it’s packed with inspiring, endearing quotes from children’s books past and present that offer guidance and hope for living in the world today. Organized in categories like “How to Be Joyful,” with charming illustrations. —J. MartinJohn Lewis: A Life David GreenbergSimon and SchusterGeorgia Congressman John Lewis’s life of service gets a deeper look in this comprehensive, 700-plus page biography. Rutgers professor Greenberg’s ambitious research includes more than 250 interviews with Lewis’s colleagues and friends, as well as previously untapped FBI files and documents. The thorough work follows Lewis from his frontline years in the Civil Rights Movement to his contributions in Congress. —Deborah P. CarterWant more holiday present ideas? Peruse our main gift guide here, and our museum-shop gift guide here. No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post These New Jersey-Centric Books Make Great Holiday Gifts appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Set the stage for a luxurious overnight experience! We asked our friends at the new Albion Summit hotel (570 Springfield Avenue) to share their top tips for creating a memorable holiday sleepover:1. Dazzle houseguests with seasonal favorites like mistletoe, scented candles and bowls of candy canes.2. Set up an in-room mini bar with all the fixings for holiday cocktails and adult hot chocolate.3. Choose a festive playlist with beloved tunes by crooners Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé and Pentatonix.4. Offer a mini holiday tree with a basket of sparkly ornaments, and invite guests to decorate.5. Under the tree, stash a thoughtful goody—chocolate-chip cookies, an inspirational book or a gift card.“Making guests comfortable starts with presenting the colorful side of luxury,” says Jeanne Cretella, president of Landmark Hospitality, parent company of Albion Summit. “Think creatively to stimulate the senses by offering heartwarming sights and sounds reminiscent of childhood holidays.”[RELATED: Chic and Cozy Pieces to Elevate Your Guest Room]Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post 5 Ways to Make Your Holiday Guests Feel at Home appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_348013" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]The ultra-mod Serpentine bed exudes a minimalist vibe with boucle fabric and tubular frame; $3,500 at jonathanadler.com.Stock your guestroom with eye-popping books on design, architecture and botany; prices vary at phaidon.com. Treat your guest to a plush Dusen Dusen cotton-terry bathrobe adorned with a bold, artistic flower pattern; $138 at nordstrom.com.Signature hemmed sheet set in breathable, 100 percent organic cotton is available in 28 styles and colors; $229 at bollandbranch.com.Primaloft pillow is an allergy-friendly down alternative with an Egyptian-cotton damask cover; $124-$156 at bloomingdales.com.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.The post Chic and Cozy Pieces to Elevate Your Guest Room appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Rick Rodgers didn’t set out to be the coauthor/ghostwriter/recipe tester/editor or consultant for 60-plus cookbooks. He wanted to be an actor.Waiting tables on Manhattan's Upper West Side was a side hustle where he happened to meet a lot of celebrities. When his love for food led him into catering, the famous patrons became his clients. From there, like any good cook, Rodgers, a West Orange resident, followed his instincts and let his food-based career—which has had many iterations—unfold.Thanksgiving 101, first published in 1998, is one of 40 books Rodgers has penned, and it remains a classic. It offers foolproof recipes and tips for the novice and the seasoned cook.His number one piece of advice when you are preparing the menu for your Thanksgiving feast? “Serve nostalgia,” Rodgers says. “Change or modify traditions one dish at a time.”[RELATED: Stylish Kitchen Staples for Holiday Cooking]
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post The Prolific NJ Cookbook Author Who Wrote the Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_348234" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]This curved cutting board made of acacia wood is both handsome and handy; $49.95 at coleandmasonusa.com.There are never too many soft, absorbent terry towels in the kitchen; $12.99 at hm.com.Pop the fancifully carved Lotus breadwarmer’s terracotta disc in the oven, then place it in its wicker home, and your bread will stay warm and table ready; $36 at serrv.org.The hardy cook will appreciate this heavy cotton-twill apron; $50 at containerstore.com.Time to replace your cookware? Consider this 7-ply titanium, 10-piece suite of pots and pans from Viking; $1,499.99 at nordstrom.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Stylish Kitchen Staples for Holiday Cooking appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_344038" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]For an uncomplicated daily uniform, throw on a relaxed Heritage trench coat, $240, and a high-rise straight jean, $148, both from jcrew.com.Ferragamo’s Allure watch sports classic Roman numerals and a two-tone design; $1,050 at bloomingdales.com.Skylar’s Clean Beauty collection features three fresh autumn scents including vanilla sky; $90 at anthropologie.com.Square-toed ballet flats wow with metallic applique and fun leopard print; $498 at francesvalentine.com.Available in seasonal colors, Chimi’s 04 sunnies complete your fall look; $165 at veronicabeard.com.Smart and substantial, this hip, lizard-embossed leather belt is perfect with jeans or fancy pants; $270 at neimanmarcus.com.Available in black and cappuccino, Cuyana’s tall leather tote holds it all in style; $268 at nordstrom.com.[RELATED: NJ Influencers Share Their Top Style Tips for Fall]
Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Everyday Luxury: Build a Chic Wardrobe With Just a Few Basics appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_343118" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]The Dig the Garden tray from Annabel James is an oversized carryall featuring a fresh crop of garden goodies; $48 at annabeljames.co.uk.A large woven basket holds everything from potatoes to onions and eggs; $49 at hm.com.A white marble salt chamber with a wooden top keeps the most popular kitchen seasoning fresh; $29 at nordstrom.com.Terracotta sprouters come in a set of three sizes for a variety of seeds; $20 at kikkerland.com.Accented with sari fabric, these unique produce bags are handcrafted in India with breathable mesh cotton and drawstring closures; three for $18 at serrv.org.This two-tiered, woven copper-wire stand is ideal for keeping your market haul within reach; $88 at anthropologie.com.Striking a vintage vibe, this cool, roomy tote is a market must; $44 at storigraphic.com.Portable, foldable and durable, this wheeled tote offers a shoulder strap and top handles. The water-resistant design can hold two to five bags of groceries; $105 at containerstore.com.[RELATED: The Future of Farming in New Jersey]
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post To Market We Go With These Beautiful Items for Produce appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
“I love that art has the ability to connect people to their higher selves,” says artist Alison Scherr of Peapack. With her reputation for painting emotive, larger-than-life interpretations of the movement of light and patterns in nature, Scherr has amassed a steadily growing fan base.She began her career as a photographer in New York City, collaborating with magazine and record-label clients, often adding a layer of paint to her images. She later evolved into a prop stylist, designing still-life sets for ad campaigns and magazines for such luminaries as Condé Nast and Bloomingdale’s.“As a photographer, I captured people and created elaborate costumes and magical worlds,” she says. “But when I moved to the New Jersey countryside in 2012, my world and physical space opened up, and I began painting full-time. The subject matter of my paintings started with people, then moved to florals and, more recently, to abstracts on canvas. I also create representational plexiglas paintings that sometimes include hidden messages.”The most monumental painting she has sold thus far, Field Burn ll, is 7 by 9 feet and hangs in an art collector’s light-filled, modern home in Wyoming. “I sell a lot of paintings directly to collectors, both established and first-time art buyers,” she explains. “I often work with interior designers and also love making pieces for corporate spaces.” Her art has been exhibited in several states, and a large commissioned piece hangs in Washington, DC, in the lobby of a building adjacent to the White House.[RELATED: Don’t Be Afraid to Embrace Color in Your Home]
Scherr has worked out of multiple studios, recently at Whittemore Nature Preserve in Oldwick, and also in a privately owned manor house. “Now I’ve taken over our dining room and living room, where incredible, big windows let the light come in,” she says. (Scherr lives in what she calls the Hobbit House, a former water-cistern structure built into the side of a berm.) She typically paints her oversized canvases on the floor, unstretched, using industrial materials. “I like the support of the floor beneath, and it gives me the flexibility to walk around, or on top of, the canvas. My paint strokes are very broad and splashy, and the process requires a lot of physical effort,” she notes. ”As I create with a mix of house paint, ink, pastels and spray paint, I turn off my thoughts and allow music to guide my movements.”A curated collection of Scherr’s work resides at Pottersville and Main, an interior-design studio and retail shop in Gladstone, just a stone’s throw from her home. “I love working with owners John and Geoffrey,” she says. “In fact, we’re collaborating on a collection to debut in their space soon.” Scherr also plans to launch a bespoke jewelry line when the leaves begin to fall.To view Scherr’s work, visit AlisonScherr.com or @AscherrArt on Instagram.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post High-Powered Photographer Became Full-Time Painter After Moving to NJ Countryside appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_341301" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Easy, breezy, warm-weather looks include the Britt linen shirt, $188, and flowy Ophelia maxi skirt, $188, from J.McLaughlin shops and jmclaughlin.com. The Remi geometric swimsuit offers posh style for fun in the sun; $245 at Nordstrom stores and nordstrom.com. Get comfy with Enola double-buckle espadrille sandals; $158 at Neiman Marcus and neimanmarcus.com. The beaded, layered Manhattan stacked bracelet is chic yet casual; $95 at francesvalentine.com.Created by NJ’s own Bobbi Brown, Jones Road Miracle Balm imparts an all-over, instant glow. Available in scads of shades; $38 for 1.75 ounces at jonesroadbeauty.com. Mallorca cat-eye sunglasses wow in classic tortoise shell style; $79.50 at J.Crew stores and jcrew.com.The DeMellier Capri raffia tote keeps you organized at the beach and beyond; $395 at Bloomingdale’s and bloomingdales.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Stylish Finds for Lazy, Hazy Days of Summer appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Now in its 10th year, the Just Jersey retail store in Morristown has proven to be a trailblazer for the buy-local movement.For the last decade, co-owners Tina Bologna and Paul Miller have stocked their shop with goods made only by Jerseyans—much of it also Jersey-centric, with wares boasting the attitude the state is known for, folklore like the Jersey Devil, and iconic sites like Margate’s Lucy the Elephant.“We were surprised that there was demand for not just Jersey made, but also Jersey branded,” admits Bologna.Collecting Jersey makers in one place may seem like a no-brainer today, but in 2012, when Bologna created a print catalog of items by local crafters and artisanal food producers to sell for a school fundraiser, the idea was a novel hit, so she continued to expand. “I wanted to make a bigger impact,” she says.In 2014, the first retail venture came in the form of a pop-up shop. Since then, the original 30-40 craftspeople have grown to more than 300, offering thousands of products.[caption id="attachment_341290" align="aligncenter" width="778"] "We're like the gift shop of New Jersey," says Tina Bologna. Photo: Andy Foster[/caption]The goods are as diverse as the state, with an inventory that includes greeting cards, jewelry, cookbooks, and a variety of home goods, from travertine coasters to tea towels and pillows.“Each item has a great story,” Miller says. “From the seaglass wall art done by an artist in Cape May to the hand-turned bowls made from storm-felled local trees.”[caption id="attachment_341293" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Stocked items from New Jersey makers include wall art, ceramic goods, handmade cutting boards, and much more. Photo: Andy Foster[/caption]Just Jersey has also become a go-to shop for corporate gifting. “We do a lot of gift baskets. We can create all kinds of themes,” says Miller, an experienced entrepreneur who previously owned a natural fruit juice chain as well as a store for triathlon enthusiasts.One popular basket is the Italian sampler, which includes Jersey-shaped pasta, locally made Italian gravy, biscotti and more.[caption id="attachment_341291" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Photo: Andy Foster[/caption]“Every item here reinforces a company’s commitment to the place they call home,” says Miller. “New Jersey is important to our business’s customers, their employees and the surrounding community. Everything here reinforces the value of their brand.”Students taking summer immersion trips are also regulars. “The students bring their international hosts gifts,” Bologna says. “We have stuff going all over: Japan, Spain, Portugal. They like to bring a bit of their state pride to share.”Realtors, too, flock to Just Jersey. Where better to get a welcome gift that can be customized with your town and zip code?[caption id="attachment_341292" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Photo: Andy Foster[/caption]“We won’t let people forget there is more to Jersey than housewives and Sopranos,” Miller says.Visit Just Jersey at 163 South Street in Morristown; 973-590-2820.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Just Jersey in Morristown Puts Local Makers On Display appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Terry Cook has always loved cars. But unlike most four-wheel fanatics, he doesn’t care much about what he drives. His passion is design.Cook designs custom cars and sells them for six-figure sums to collectors at auctions around the world. His creations are low-slung and sensual, with swooping, tear-drop fenders and eye-popping color combinations.“Styling has always been my deal,” says the 82-year-old Cook, who lives in Chester with his wife, Virginia.Cook recalls making images of cars “as soon as I could draw.” As a teen, he got a job as a flagman at Island Dragway in Great Meadows and soon acquired his first Model A Ford hot rod.After studying engineering at Lehigh, Cook lit out for car-crazy California in 1964, where he covered the automotive world for Car and Driver magazine and other publications. Drawn to the Art Deco-inspired classic cars of the 1930s, Cook resolved to design more affordable versions. First, he sketches out his vision, then a professional creates a rendering. Next, a craftsman builds what’s known as a buck, similar to a dress form, and a fiberglass mold is cast.Cook’s biggest success, based on the Lincoln Zephyr, a rakish, pre-World War II luxury model, sold at auction in 1999 for $275,000. Next, he produced fiberglass Zephyr bodies and sold them for about $15,000 as kit cars—without motors or transmissions—to collectors from Australia to Slovenia.Cook also created fiberglass kit cars based on the 1937 Bugatti Type 57 and the 1935 Auburn Boattail Speedster. He has also sold completed versions of his kit cars; one fiberglass Bugatti went for $220,000.Another Cook creation was Lead East, the giant car show and celebration of 1950s culture that he launched in 1983. Cook sold Lead East in 2019, but the extravaganza still attracts thousands to Parsippany each Labor Day weekend.Perhaps Cook’s best deal—and a favorite of his two sons (now grown)—was a license he granted to Mattel to make a Hot Wheels version of his Zephyr. “My children were impressed that they could walk into a Walmart and buy Dad’s car,” he says.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Chester Man, 82, Still Designing Custom Classic Cars appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Make this dreamy duo your go-to daytime look, or dress it up after dark. Bloomsbury shirt ($178) and pant ($158), at J. McLaughlin and jmclaughlin.com.Avoid harsh rays with the Faherty fedora, embellished with whimsical raffia tassels; $148 at Anthropologie and anthropologie.com. The new Bubble Collection features six luxe fragrances, including citrus-fresh Santorini eau de toilette; $120 at thebubblecollection.com. Chic Skip sunnies are retro inspired and offer UV 400 eye protection. Available in three colors; $348 at francesvalentine.com. This ruffled, ruched one-piece swimsuit covers you in classic toile style; $128 at J.Crew stores and jcrew.com.When you need a roomy tote poolside or beachside, grab this Kurt Geiger beauty; $195 at Bloomingdale’s and bloomies.com.Rick-rack lovers will appreciate the sweet styling of Patricia Green's Ava espadrille; $189 at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Chic, Vacation-Ready Pieces to Wear All Summer Long appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_339224" align="alignnone" width="960"] Illustration: Kay Wolfersperger[/caption]On a deep August afternoon, I sat in my stifling Montclair attic staring forlornly at a horrid turquoise casserole dish that hadn’t seen daylight since my wedding shower.My husband and I had sold our 1905 colonial and we were scrambling to empty out the beloved home our family had spent 23 years filling up. Paul and I had earmarked key items for the apartment we were downsizing to in town, unloaded some things on our 20-something sons, donated what we could, and rented a storage space for supposedly important objects I now only think about when paying our monthly invoice.That left a house still brimming with stuff that, while not particularly valuable, didn’t belong in a landfill: a dusty fabric doll from somebody’s Cancun vacation; a vat of screws, washers and errant metal things that belonged to something, somewhere; a purple V-neck from my mom I’d rediscover in my closet each year and swear to finally give a go. (I never did. I hate purple.)Figuring WTF, I snapped a pic of the odious casserole and listed it on Facebook Marketplace for $10. A couple of nibbles came in, one wanting additional photos and the brand (did he think it was Tiffany?), another countering $5.With the clock ticking fast toward move day, I had about as much time to quibble over crockery as I did for a spa extravaganza at the Short Hills Hilton. I settled on a new price ($0) and reposted it on my local Facebook Buy Nothing page. The description: “I hate this dish. Maybe you won’t.”A clay pot that couldn’t command $10 just days before suddenly had dozens clamoring. In a blink, a woman arrived at my house, raced up our flagstone walk with the glee of a newly named Price is Right contestant, and left with the casserole and a basket of smelly candles to boot.Pumped, I posted more, taking a brief minute to explain to Buy Nothing browsers (and myself) why the object in question wasn’t making my cut.“After 22 years of planting tomatoes and getting about five total per season, we are giving up. Please take these tomato baskets.”“Could not look less hideous in this bike shirt, no matter how hard I pedal.”“I hope that where I am going, I will never have to use this horrid Shop-Vac.”And for that sad little doll from Cancun, a simple “Help me” made her case.As the weeks ground on, my daily Buy Nothing posts and visits became a precious ray of light amid the downsizing chaos. Each exchange provided a chance to spare the landfill. To delight another person I might not otherwise have crossed paths with. To attach a face, and sometimes a name, to something I’d owned and, possibly, loved before sending it out into the world.I sit in my apartment today, loving each of the spare belongings that share our small space. I take joy knowing that, somewhere nearby, someone is appreciating something that couldn’t come with us. And I hold out hope that maybe, just maybe, my mom’s purple V-neck, still hanging in my bedroom closet, will finally get some wear this year.Peg Rosen writes for numerous print and digital publications. She lives with her husband, Paul, and moyen poodle, George, in an uncluttered Montclair rental.[RELATED: Emptying the Nest: How We Decluttered Our Home of 30 Years]
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Free for All: The Joys of Giving Stuff Away on Facebook appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Mike Considine was deep into a career as a finish carpenter when lightning struck. Not literally, of course; he had what he describes as an aha moment. Why not create a refillable candle, something that would be reusable, environmentally friendly, toxin-free and sustainable?Fortunately, his wife, Olivia Apt, was game.“I’ve always liked to create,” she says, “but I never really found my own craft.”The couple combined forces and got to work, brainstorming ideas and sketching designs. Before he knew it, Mike had switched his artistic medium from wood to clay, and, in the midst of Covid-19 lockdown, voila: Lovelight Handmade was born. “It’s a joint creation,” says Mike.[caption id="attachment_338953" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Lovelight Handmade hosts creative learning experiences through hands-on workshops for people to create their own candle scents, to throw pottery and more. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]The concept is simple: a cylindrical ceramic vessel with a refillable candle. Mike worked on honing his pottery skills (“I got all my mistakes out of the way early,” he jokes), while Olivia threw herself into researching waxes and scents, ultimately procuring materials that are certified clean, vegan, and void of any toxins.“We’re very particular about our scents,” Olivia says. “They’re clean. No chemicals. No headaches.”[caption id="attachment_338954" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Lovelight Handmade has a shop in Bradley Beach. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]As their roles evolved, Olivia discovered a new passion: glazing. Drawing inspiration from the sea, she developed an aesthetic that has become their trademark.Creations in hand, the couple began doing the farmers market circuit in and around Asbury Park, where they make their home. They sold vessels in three sizes and various glazes, along with candle inserts scented with lavender, white tea, sage, grapefruit and other refreshing fragrances“Because it was Covid, people were in their homes,” says Mike, “so business took off right away.”Certain they were onto something, they soon developed an e-commerce presence, shipping “anywhere and everywhere,” Mike says. In May 2023, they opened their retail shop on Main Street in Bradley Beach.The couple concede that their learning curve has been steep, especially on the business side. Says Olivia, “We’re each wearing a lot of hats, learning as we go.” Adds Mike, “We’re grinding.”Undeterred, the pair have branched out into dishes, pitchers, vases and other ceramic designs, but candles remain their bread and butter. “Half of our business is refills,” explains Mike. “That tells me our idea is working.” And, as business continues to grow, so do their ideas. Lovelight Handmade’s vessels can have the LVLT logo imprinted on the ceramic, or customers can create a personalized message, perfect for, say, bridesmaid gifts.“I have a difficult time with the label of ‘artist’,” says Mike, “but what we’re creating here is very rewarding.”Lovelight Handmade is located at 57 Main Street, Bradley Beach (732-455-9514). The post Lovelight Handmade’s Candles Are Inspired by the Sea appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_334996" align="alignnone" width="778"] Abbey Holloway (left) and Catherine Spinosa sell soft, flowy fashion at their Shore boutique, Waterlily, in Spring Lake, Manasquan and Bay Head. Photo: Courtesy of Alison Ardolino[/caption]When Abbey Holloway and Catherine Spinosa opened their first Waterlily women’s clothing shop in Spring Lake, it was the perfect location—just three blocks from the beach and close enough to ride their bikes to work.The high school friends grew up in Manasquan and graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Later, they shared a commute to Manhattan each morning, where Holloway was a merchandiser for Free People, and Spinosa worked in the fashion district for a clothing retailer. But both felt unfulfilled and dreamed of opening their own shop. So, when a retail space opened in Spring Lake in 2007, these Shore residents took the plunge.“We filled our store with unique clothes in vibrant colors, with soft flowy fabrics and fun embellishments,” Spinosa says. Today, they live a busy but casual lifestyle, usually in jeans and sneakers, whether tending the store or at home with their families.Shore shoppers liked what they saw at the Spring Lake flagship location, so the partners rode the wave and expanded to Manasquan (177 Main Street) and Bay Head (41 Mount Street).[caption id="attachment_335012" align="alignnone" width="778"] Waterlily stocks a lot of soft and flowy fabrics. Photo: Abbey Holloway[/caption]Today, all three boutiques sell favorite looks from Free People, Z Supply, Mother Denim, Rails, Bell, Birkenstock, Spell Designs, Bella Dahl, Saltwater Luxe, Maaji Swim, L Space, Velvet, Citizens of Humanity and more.Waterlily overflows with dresses, skirts, tops, pants, swimwear, shoes and accessories. Holloway says, “Our most-requested looks are block-printed caftans from India, soft tees made in the USA, and your favorite pair of denim jeans.” Spinosa adds, “Each item is handpicked by Abbey and me. We especially like feminine, bohemian styles, often with a preppy touch.”The Spring Lake and Manasquan locations are open year-round, but the Bay Head shop is seasonal, May through October. In 2019, the partners also opened a Spring Lake gift shop called Seas the Day, specializing in upscale beach bags, sweatshirts and coastal souvenirs.“We’re so fortunate to be in the downtown areas of three quaint and beautiful Shore towns,” says Holloway. “We have the best customers, always relaxed, happy and in vacation mode.”Waterlily Flagship Store, 1202 Third Avenue, Spring Lake; 732-449-0912.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
[RELATED: At LBI's Dune Market, a Shopkeeper Returns to Her Island Roots]
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Longtime BFFs Left Manhattan Fashion Jobs to Open Jersey Shore Boutiques Together appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
A bright rainbow is fashioned into the state’s silhouette on this vinyl, outdoor-ready sticker; $2.99 at truejersey.com. Gold porcelain coasters wow with 3-D style rainbow graphics; $95 at jonathanadler.com.Stock the bar with Absolut Vodka’s limited-edition statement bottle, and let the fun begin; $22.99 at totalwine.com. This tome from Rutgers University Press chronicles stories of LGBTQ+ activists who helped shape the state’s largest city; from $27 at rutgersuniversitypress.org and amazon.com. Outdoor fun is at hand with these oversized outdoor dice in multiple shades; $49 at anthropologie.com.Slip-on sneaks decorated with Coach’s multicolored logo can be styled with anything in your closet; $90 at macys.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Fun Finds for Celebrating Pride Month appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The largest topiary producer in New Jersey and one of the best-known decorative topiary purveyors in the United States, Atlock Farm grows specimens ranging in height from 8 to 80 inches. The place is a plant-lover’s paradise.Classic topiaries—hand-pruned shrubbery grown in individual pots—have been mainstays of design for centuries, achieving cult status among interior designers and home-decor enthusiasts. “If you look at design magazines from 30 years ago and even 60 years ago, you’ll see topiaries featured in beautiful spaces. It’s a horticultural art that will remain forever,” says Ken Selody, ornamental gardener and owner of the Somerset County farm.Selody’s interest began in 1990, when Allen Haskell of New Bedford, Massachusetts, was regarded as the king of topiary. “I had a successful business growing unusual garden plants in the late eighties and was intrigued by topiaries, but was groping around in the dark before I met Haskell. He was very generous with his time and even introduced me to Margaret Williams, his top cutter,” Selody says. After Haskell passed in 2004, Williams began working for Atlock Farm, and soon topiary lovers from all over the East Coast flocked to Selody for their topiary needs. Williams remains on his team today.[RELATED: How to Find the Best Houseplant for Your Space]
About 25 years ago, Selody gained widespread recognition as a gardening expert and contributing editor for Martha Stewart Living magazine. He supplied noted American horticulturalist Bunny Mellon’s Oak Spring Farm with Wedgwood thyme topiaries, delivered a truckload of plants to a swanky New York City party thrown by Tom Cruise, and contributed topiaries for a scene in the 2009 film Julie & Julia starring Meryl Streep.The gregarious Selody shared his expertise on a widely viewed HGTV.com appearance in 2022, which included tried-and-true growing tips and a tour of his farm. Although some regard topiaries as finicky plants, Selody maintains they simply require regular watering and sunshine. One might think his own home would be loaded with topiaries, but Selody admits, “I live with seven cats who treat plants like scratching posts. So I’m content to live with fresh topiaries in my greenhouse 12 hours each day.”Atlock Farm, 545 Weston Canal Road, Somerset; 732-356-3373; @atlockfarm on Instagram.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post East Coasters Flock to This Jersey Farm for Stylish Topiaries appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_334142" align="alignnone" width="778"] Embroidery Babes founder Michelle Fleischer with one of her custom totes. Photo: Fox Images Photography[/caption]In need of an outlet during a difficult time, Haworth mom Michelle Fleischer picked up an embroidery needle and not only stitched herself out of depression, but eventually into a new business.“I miscarried two days after my birthday, and it was devastating,” Fleischer says, explaining that sharing stories is one of the most rewarding parts of Embroidery Babes, her stitch-and-sip company that sells custom-embroidered designs and offers hands-on workshops.Before becoming a mom to her first child, Gavin, in 2016, Fleischer, who grew up in Tenafly, worked as a corporate trainer in retail marketing. “As a person who likes control, when I couldn’t get pregnant again on my own, it was hard because it was out of my hands,” she says. Fleischer and her husband, Scott, began in vitro fertilization treatments in 2020, but were sidelined by the pandemic shutdown.“I just had to do something, so I started painting. I’d always been a crafter, so then I bought an embroidery kit online and found it therapeutic and just kept doing it.”As the pandemic waned, Fleischer became pregnant with her second child, a girl. She decided to use her stitching skills to update her son’s baby clothes for his new sister.“Before long, people were noticing the pieces I made and asking where I got them,” Fleischer says. “I made an Instagram account and started getting orders.” She personalizes items for customers and sells her own hand-stitched bags, bandannas, baby gifts and more.A natural teacher, she wanted to share her self-care skill with others and began holding the stitch-and-sip workshops. “It’s like a paint-and-sip, only with embroidery. After all, how many paintings of a sunset do you need?” she laughs. The beauty of the stitch-and-sip, Fleischer says, is it’s an opportunity for women (men are welcome, too) to connect, whether they are struggling with a challenge like infertility or just need a night out.Embroidery Babes workshops are held everywhere from breweries to retail stores and charity functions. Events cost around $75 per person (alcohol is usually extra, depending on the venue), and include an embroidery kit with a hoop, threads and stencils. Most people leave the two-hour workshop with a finished product.“I just felt so alone when I was going through infertility,” Fleischer says. “ I don’t want anyone else to feel that way. This business gives women a place to support each other and share their stories.”Follow Embroidery Babes on Instagram and Facebook.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post This NJ Mom Turned a Therapeutic Pastime Into an Empowering Business appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_331266" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photographer Stephanie Blum poses for a self-portrait, along with photogenic pup Jay, who is being raised by Blum and her husband as a potential Seeing Eye guide dog. Photo: Courtesy of Stephanie Blum; hair and makeup by Ericka Medina; blossoms by Colly Flowers in Morristown[/caption]When Stephanie Blum spent her early years in fashion as director of merchandising for Calvin Klein’s design team, she didn’t foresee her future as a full-time photographer specializing in pet portraiture.“I love this job because I always wanted to work with people and their animals,” Blum says. “Growing up, my family had a lot of rescue animals, so I’m comfortable around pets, and I know how to read a dog’s body language.”She adds, “Pets are beloved family members, so clients like to include them in professional images to celebrate their intimate bond.” Blum also captures the likenesses of solo humans and other critters in her Mendham Borough studio.Full services with Stephanie Blum Photography begin with an at-home consultation to meet adults, kids and pets in their own environment. “Understanding how my clients live helps me envision a creative concept that will represent their authentic style,” she says. “It’s also good for animals to meet me before they visit the studio.”Clients choose Blum because she makes photo shoots stress free by suggesting what to wear, providing professional hair and makeup artists, and offering posing guidance.After the shoot, it’s time for the big reveal. Images are immediately available for viewing, and clients can select from digital portraits, heirloom-quality photo albums, and framed wall-art options.Blum usually works with canine clientele because, she explains, “cats are not always willing participants.” However, she would be happy to collaborate with cooperative kitties, as well as horses, birds, bunnies or reptiles.Blum and hubby Michael Ansell have two pups of their own: 12-year-old Winnie and 11-year-old Benji. In 2023, the couple volunteered as foster parents in the Morristown-based Seeing Eye’s puppy-raising program. Last November, they brought home Jay, a 7-week-old black Labrador retriever, and they are teaching him socialization and good manners for one year.“I wanted to give back to the community because I’m blessed with good vision,” says Blum. “Michael and I are delighted to raise Jay to one day serve a visually impaired person.”She is also working on a “pet project” in her spare time. Later this year, Blum will release a coffee-table book that features her portraits of rescue dogs and their poignant backstories. Proceeds will benefit See Spot Rescued, a Jersey City nonprofit dog-rescue organization that re-homes lucky pooches.Stephanie Blum Photography, 2-A Hilltop Road, Mendham; 732-598-1291.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Want a Stylish Photo With Your Pup? This NJ Photographer Specializes in Pet Portraits appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_331248" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]A nifty slanted shade with whip-stitch detail gives the Arroyo brass floor lamp by Elan Byrd personality; $798 at luluandgeorgia.com.The Newark lamp has a rattan ginger jar-shaped body with a Belgian linen shade; $790 at hvlgroup.com.Earth-toned beads strung in an organic mollusk shape make for a whimsical statement; $1,564 at laylagrayce.com.The Nathan James wall-mount, pulley-style lamp sports a shapely, open-weave shade; $85 at amazon.com.Inspired by Florida palms, the Palma table lamp’s textured ceramic body and natural-fiber string shade offer a beachy vibe; $590 at troylightinglights.com.A lyrical silhouette on the Winona floor lamp features a leather-wrapped arm and solid oak side table; $1,095 at sohohome.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post 6 Chic Lamps We’re Loving This Spring appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The Senjyo rattan pendant, designed by Hiroshi Koshitaka, is simply stylish; $2,740 at curreyco.com.Twenty-piece Fantasia flatware, available in 20 hues, mixes and matches with any tablescape; $426 at westelm.com.Perk up your kitchen with colorful, artisanal Bornn enamelware swirl mugs. Set of four; $80 at anthropologie.com. Treat your next soirée to pretty and colorful block-print napkins with scalloped edges. Set of four; $49 at markandgraham.com. The Riviera rattan lounge chair features bouclé cushions and a glamorous French feel; $2,100 at jonathanadler.com. Snuggle up with Reef pillow covers in hydrangea blue or grass green; $228-$248 at serenaandlily.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Whimsical Home Finds We’re Loving This Spring appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Because of Jersey’s great debate, carrying this canvas tote will give folks a hint of your exit on the GSP; $10.99 at truejersey.com. By now this shorthand for the exclamation “Oh, my God!” is such common vernacular, it merits this artful rendering in bubbly gold letters; from $1,250 at ashleystarkhome.com. This tome keeps the Sopranos’ story going with character-driven recipes; $21.49 at amazon.com.A pinewood frame displays a time-worn American flag; $399-$799 at potterybarn.com. This enduring sign of peace takes the form of porcelain candle holders; $54 at jungalow.com.This multicolored arc, rendered here in sparkly sequins, is a symbol of inclusion and diversity; $260 at jonathanadler.com.Folks of a certain age know that Birkenstocks defined hippie culture, circa 1970; $160 at nordstrom.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post From a ‘Sopranos’ Cookbook to a Taylor-Ham Tote, These Items Celebrate Pop Culture appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Years after graduation, when former college roommates and renowned soirée-throwers Amy Tomlinson and Courtney Curzi Murray left their lucrative corporate jobs to start an event-planning business, they wanted to keep the party going.“We still had a passion for entertaining, but realized that adult party planning wasn’t always fun,” says Tomlinson, of Summit. Then the idea came to them: What if someone curated a no-fuss tablescape for event hosts? And what if those hosts didn’t have to stay up late washing dishes and table linens?In August 2023, they launched Spoon + Salt, a luxury tabletop-rental company, serving most of New Jersey and parts of New York and Pennsylvania. “Our vision is to offer curated tabletop looks in an easy way, delivering complete tabletop decor to our client’s home, then collecting it after the party,” says Murray, of Phillipsburg, a former marketing vice president. Tomlinson, a merchandising and project-management expert, adds, “We also believe this is a good way for clients to recycle, by not having to buy new dishes and linens when hosting an event.”[RELATED: This Point Pleasant Shop is Stocked for All Your Stylish Soirées]
The partners offer more than 10 curated tablescape styles, viewing every table as a blank canvas on which to make a creative statement. Their concept is straightforward. Party-throwers browse tabletop designs and choose the one that best fits their occasion, personality and number of guests. The order is placed, and soon a hand-delivered tote bag containing dinnerware, glassware, flatware and linens arrives, along with table-setting tips. After the party, hosts lightly rinse their rented dishware and repack the tote bag to be picked up by Spoon + Salt. Costs range from $120 to $160 for four place settings, plus $35 for round-trip delivery.“In 2024, we’re adding more colored glassware and napkins to round out our extensive inventory for dinner parties, bridal showers, weddings and more,” says Tomlinson. “Amy and I enjoy what we do and are always available for complimentary design consults.”“We love to be invited to the party!” Murray adds.For more information, visit Spoon + Salt's website, or call 908-818-0400.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post This Rentable Tabletop Service Makes Entertaining a Piece of Cake appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_327366" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]This sexy, date-night blouse has a draped neckline and flared sleeves; $259 at hm.com. Lounge in the Ojai pajama set—a collaboration with Katherine Schwarzenegger—that also comes in pint sizes for your mini-me; $140 at cleobella.com. Swarovski crystals sparkle on this pendant’s large, cushion-cut, center stone and halo of pink gems; $175 at nordstrom.com. Fig and pink peppercorn give a fresh, woody scent to this candle set in ombré metallic glass; $42 at anthropologie.com. This ensemble sizzles with color with floral and mesh details. Top, $84; bottom, $38 at bravissimo.com.This permanent, handmade arrangement consists of peonies, dahlias and ranunculus in a glass vase with illusion water; $795 at ashleystarkhome.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Valentine’s Day Gifts You’ll Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_326380" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Give your boudoir a new look for the new year with an organic, toxin-free, fair-trade bed ensemble from this Summit-based maker; prices vary at bollandbranch.com. Toasty toes are only two socks away! These fluffy footies will keep the cold at bay; $26 for three pairs at nordstrom.com. No more wet heads on chilly days! This soft, terry turban is a hug for your noggin—and helps dry your tresses; $19.99 at hm.com. A chunky, chenille-soft cover in buttery beige is a sure comfort; $60 at cozey.com. The Alaia organic-cotton spread offers a layer of texture and softness; $210 at luluandgeorgia.com. Named for Josephine Baker, a cabaret darling of the 1920s, this cotton-chenille throw gives Art Deco vibes; $199 at johannahoward.com. This open-weave, cotton-knit blanket comes in earthy shades and features a twisted-rope fringe; $103 at ballarddesigns.com. These sumptuous, absorbent, Turkish-cotton towels feature a ribbed texture and a fluffy weave; $85 per set at potterybarn.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post 8 Ways to Refresh Your Bedding, Bath Linens and Sock Drawers This Winter appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_326391" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]No matter which way you wear it, this reversible puffer jacket offers a cozy layer; $288 at jcrew.com. The Jocelyn Fair Isle knit cap is a happy accessory to take you through the winter; $65 at bloomingdales.com. Show your stripes with a preppy Niko wool-blend scarf; $325 at nordstrom.com.The Vinny ribbed pullover is super versatile. Dress it up, dress it down; $298 at veronicabeard.com. Dolce Vita Runaway boots in faux suede put a little country in your step; $220 at anthropologie.com. The Una leather and suede cross-body bag is a woven wonder; $248 at J.McLaughlin in Harding Township. The Jupiter stacked bracelet plays nicely with jeans or a cocktail dress; $95 at francesvalentine.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post 7 Stylish Pieces to Spruce Up Your Winter Wardrobe appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_323500" align="alignnone" width="778"] Molli Dowd’s fanciful gingerbread houses include this mansion modeled on the one from Netflix’s Bridgerton**. Photo: John Bessler[/caption]Growing up in Tucson, Arizona, Molli Dowd’s favorite holiday tradition was making a gingerbread house. But hers were no ordinary gingerbread houses.
A lover of architecture even as a young girl, she would search for a different home to replicate every year. Her mother, an accomplished baker, and her dad, a builder, provided guidance and inspiration.
Naturally, she continued the family tradition when raising her own two girls, Samantha and Patricia, in Verona, and began giving neighbors replicas of their houses. Her annual holiday cocktail party, where each guest decorates their own gingerbread house, became such a hot ticket that she started catering gin-and-gingerbread parties.
With increasing demand for her creations, Dowd launched Edible Estates in 2019. Among the New Jersey replicas she’s created in jaw-dropping detail are Montclair’s Van Vleck House, Sunday Motor Co. Café in Madison, Hillcrest Farms in Verona, Back to Nature in Basking Ridge and Montclair Film headquarters. She’s also created the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Manhattan’s Benjamin N. Duke House, the MassMutual Building in Springfield, Massachusetts, the mansion from the Netflix show Bridgerton and the Barbie movie Dream House.
[caption id="attachment_323168" align="alignnone" width="778"] Edible Estates customers can order a pre-decorated brownstone. Photo: John Bessler[/caption]Recreating a structure in gingerbread is a painstaking process. First, Dowd takes photos of the home or building, creates architectural-type plans from the photos using CAD (computer-aided design), and then makes molds from the plans using a 3-D printer. She fills the molds, bakes the gingerbread, assembles the house and decorates it with icing and candy.
While individuals, corporate clients and nonprofits can commission Dowd to replicate their homes or buildings, the true heart of the Edible Estates business is its high-end decorate-your-own gingerbread-house kits. They inspired the business’ motto, printed on the box: “Spreading happiness one gingerbread house at a time.” The kit arrives in a huge box tied with a big red ribbon that opens to reveal a pre-assembled house, in a different architectural style each year, with lighting inside and an array of colorful candies, sprinkles and edible paints that would wow Willy Wonka.
Despite the $265 price tag, the classic kit sells out so quickly that this year, Dowd has introduced a system of alerting customers every week when a new batch of handmade houses is available.
[caption id="attachment_323167" align="alignnone" width="778"] Edible Estates offers decorate-your-own house and ornaments. Photo: John Bessler[/caption]There are also less expensive options, including a cottage for $150 and an ornament-decorating kit for $135; on the higher end, there’s a house called the Luxe for $500. Another option is a predecorated house modeled on a typical New York City brownstone, for $1,300. There are also decorate-your-own options for spring, including an Easter-cookie decorating kit, a bunny hutch and a garden shed ($95-$175).
The secret sauce of the gingerbread-decorating business, Dowd says, is that it is “experiential and delightful.”
“From the moment customers open the box, it’s a beautiful experience,” she says. “Decorating a gingerbread house is joyful; we truly are in the business of delivering happiness.”
[RELATED: Drink and Be Merry at NJ’s Most Festive Holiday Pop-Up Bars]
Environmental sustainability dovetails with Dowd’s mission. The houses are handmade and packed in cornstarch peanuts that dissolve in water and recyclable cardboard boxes; they are completely edible and can be wrapped in plastic for use the next year. “It feels good to me that our product is organic matter and not taking up space in a landfill,” she says. “We are delivering an experience; you have to appreciate it and then let it go, which is just a beautiful thing.”
This spring, Dowd’s vision of a brick-and-mortar location for Edible Estates will become a reality. She recently bought the 1850s farmhouse in Basking Ridge formerly occupied by Liberty Cycle. When renovations are finished, the building will include a commercial kitchen and workshop to bake gingerbread and host baking and decorating classes; the front retail space, including a large wraparound porch, will become a coffee shop called the Porch.
Dowd says she’s excited to be able to bring in people of all ages to “learn, bake and decorate.” In addition to classes and birthday parties, she’ll host gatherings where people can bring wine, pick out their project, and decorate together, similar to paint-and-sip venues.
[RELATED: NJ’s Holiday Markets to Explore This Season]
These days, with so much of our world online, people want experiences. “I consistently get inquiries about workshops or hosting parties at someone’s house,” she says. Gen Zers are a good example: “They make experiences out of everything.”
“Creative experiences are what people want and desire, and I feel the energy around it,” Dowd says. “And it’s wonderful for me and my staff to see people actually experiencing the creative process. I’m super excited.”
Place an order or learn more at edibleestates.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post NJ Artist’s Jaw-Dropping Gingerbread Houses Range from ‘Bridgerton’ Mansion to Your Own Home appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
LUXE LOOK: Freshen your wardrobe with a Rebekah knit top, $298, and Palazzo pant in Monet print, $368 at francesvalentine.com. LIP SERVICE: Olivia Palermo lipstick offers rich color and matte finish; $38 at anthropologie.com. BABY BLUE: The petite Lawrence handbag is crafted of Italian leather with a signature bow; $495 at J. McLaughlin in Morristown and jmclaughlin.com. BUCKLE UP: The Linley suede mule adds polish to jeans-and-tee looks; $395 at veronicabeard.com.EYE CANDY: Sleek Quay sunglasses sport polarized gradient lenses and 100 percent UV protection; $75 at nordstrom.com.BOLD GOLD: The handcrafted Capucine De Wulf Cleopatra bangle is 18K gold-plated brass with blue labradorite; $395 at bloomingdales.com. PERFECT FIT: The Willa Italian wool blazer wows in camel, pink, navy or black; $288 at J.Crew Short Hills and jcrew.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Gift Ideas for the Fashionista in Your Life appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
IT'S A SETUP! Amp up your tablescape with this charmingly detailed dinnerware; setting is individually priced starting from $9.99 at hm.com. SPICE IT UP: Petite mosaic tiles lend an NYC subway vibe to these fanciful salt and pepper shakers; $32 at anthropologie.com. BLUE-PLATE SPECIAL: Classic blue-and-white dishware with eclectic patterns strikes a traditional-meets-modern tone; from $50/set of four at ballarddesigns.com.PUT ME ON A PEDESTAL: Serve anything from soup to nuts in the whimsical Chroma ceramic bowl; $195 at jonathanadler.com.HAPPY HUES: Just like a favorite wardrobe piece, this stemless suite goes with everything; $170 at nordstrom.com. GET THE POINT: This royal-blue mahogany chef’s knife from Japanese maker Korin has a modern ergonomic design; $149 at korin.com. STOCK A SMOCK: Chefs of all stripes will applaud this cross-backed apron with two front pockets; $39.95 at crateandbarrel.com. GO WITH THE GRAIN: Handsome wooden bowls feature an elongated silhouette that shows off the Italian olive-wood grain; $40 for four at verveculture.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Chic Gift Ideas for the Domestic Goddess appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_323242" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photographer Kimberly Witham became fascinated by the beauty of animals through taxidermy. Photo: Courtesy of ©Kimberly Witham[/caption]When photographer Kimberly Witham moved with her family from New York City to rural Hunterdon County more than a decade ago, she started seeing roadkill on the country roads she drove on from New Jersey to Bucks County Community College in Pennsylvania, where she taught. A lot of roadkill. Soon, the artist in her began to look at the dead animals differently—there was a certain beauty to them. “I was like, What is going on here? I would comment to people, and they would kind of shrug, like they were just so used to it. But I think it was so shocking to come from New York City, where you don’t really see any wildlife, to coming here and being like, God, most of the wildlife I see is dead on the side of the road.”
That, she says, was the genesis of her passion for the art of taxidermy, making dead animals part of her work. “I was like, Well, how am I going to comment on this?” she explains. “The reason I ended up learning taxidermy was I’ve always been kind of fascinated by it, but also because I was taking these creatures back to my studio to incorporate them into my photographs.”
The art of taxidermy isn’t dead—it’s been reborn, and nowadays, it’s even hip. Celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Demi Moore are embracing taxidermy, collecting it and decorating their homes with it, and edgy shops selling taxidermied animals and oddities are starting to pop up with more regularity. But, in contrast with the deer heads that were traditionally found on the walls of hunting lodges and the homes of the wealthy, this taxidermy is often fun and playful, sometimes creepy, and frequently beautiful. And, more often than not, it’s being created by women.
[caption id="attachment_323241" align="alignnone" width="778"] Witham's Morning Light is inspired by Dutch still-life paintings. Photo: Courtesy of ©Kimberly Witham[/caption]Witham’s work, reminiscent of the Dutch masters’ still-life paintings, is gorgeous and disturbing at the same time. A gracious table that’s set for dinner is decorated with a small bird frozen in time; a dead raccoon appears to be slumbering on a platter, surrounded by wine and the remnants of a meal.
In her work, Witham taxidermies the animals and then sets them up in scenes that she photographs.
Taxidermy, a method of preserving animals for display or study, is a curious subculture. It involves mounting an animal’s skin on a model body, so that the animals look alive or in motion. Taxidermists need to know about animal anatomy, and have a knowledge of sculpture and tanning. Traditionally, the practice was used to display animals as hunting trophies and in natural history museums—but today, taxidermy is becoming more popular as a hobby, and more people are collecting it.
As Witham’s interest in the art grew, she decided to attend taxidermy school in Wisconsin. When she arrived, she was the only woman among a group of men who, she says, were right out of central casting—hunters with long beards and lots of flannel.
When she started readying the animals to be mounted, she soon realized that the process is not for the faint of heart.
“It’s insanely visceral,” says Witham, who has lived with her family in Lebanon Township since 2006. “It’s almost like you are undressing the animal. I think people imagine that you’re cutting it open like a surgeon, but you’re not. Imagine that their fur is like a tight-fitting jumpsuit, and you’re taking it off. And so you have to make an incision and then, using a scalpel, you have to slowly peel the skin away.”
The art of taxidermy also intrigued Melissa Milgrom, a journalist who grew up in New Brunswick and wrote the book Still Life: Adventures in Taxidermy (Mariner Books, 2010) to better understand it.
In researching her book, Milgrom spent time with famous taxidermists and even visited the workshop of David Schwendeman, the former chief taxidermist for the American Museum of Natural History, who lived in Milltown until his death in 2012. Much of his work graces the museum, including majestic bald eagles, mink, coyotes and geese.
[RELATED: Meet Woodland Park’s World-Renowned Taxidermist]
Milgrom believes that one of the reasons for a resurgence in taxidermy now is the scarcity of some species of animals, making them more exotic.
“There’s always a resurgence in taxidermy,” she says. “It’s reviled, then it becomes hip again.”
During her research, she learned how to create a mounted squirrel herself.
“It was really gross and difficult. I skinned it, tanned it, and did everything the old-fashioned way,” she says.
She now has two taxidermied squirrels in her home, including the one she mounted, as well as a chipmunk and a crocodile head. “For me, they’re totems of the time I spent hanging out with taxidermists,” she says. “It’s like my own cabinet of curiosities.”
As the appeal of taxidermy has started to broaden, more women tell us they are getting in on the act.
Jessica Drago, who lives in Nutley, is one of them. She became enamored with the art of taxidermy about a year ago after seeing an Instagram post showcasing a woman producing a mounted bird. Drago, a 31-year-old artist who started out making wildlife sculptures, knew then that taxidermy was something she wanted to try.
ETHICAL TAXIDERMYLike many other taxidermists working today, Drago uses only animals that have died of natural causes, a practice called ethical taxidermy. At the moment, she’s concentrating on birds. Her studio, which is in her apartment, has many of the colorful, delicate mounted birds that she has created in the past year, including cockatiels, goldfinches, and her favorite, the multicolored Gouldian finch.
[caption id="attachment_323231" align="alignnone" width="778"] "It’s weird because I don’t see the animals as dead," says 31-year-old artist and taxidermist Jessica Drago. "A big part of why I do what I do is to breathe new life into them." Photo: Courtesy of Mario Cordaro[/caption]She obtains them in various ways, mainly through breeders and pet shops, which send her birds that have died. She spends between $10 and $50 for these birds; her finished birds sell for $200-$300 in stores.
While most animals found dead on the street may be used for taxidermy, the laws in the United States regarding the use of birds for taxidermy are extremely strict. Many wild birds, even dead ones, are protected under the Migratory Bird Act. However, some non-native species, such as house sparrows and starlings, are exempt from the law.
When she first started out, Drago says, she once picked up a dead starling on the street and took it home to work on it, only to discover it was too decayed for taxidermy. “It has to be fresh enough to eat, but it can’t have a smell to it. And if the feathers fall out, it’s too far decayed and not suitable,” she explains.
That starling was her first—and last—roadkill experience, she says. Drago later found a pest-control company that agreed to give her starlings they removed from buildings. She also found a taxidermist in Connecticut who was willing to give her some of her birds because she needed more space in her freezer.
Drago also keeps some of her birds in her own freezer, right next to the hamburger patties. She says her fiancé, whom she lives with, doesn’t mind and has been extremely supportive of her work.
On her desk in her studio are some of the tools she uses in her taxidermy, including a steel brush for removing excess fat that is left on the skin between the feather quills. In taxidermy, the organs of the animal are not removed; rather, the animal is skinned and the carcass is removed. Then, the skin is placed over a fiberglass form to create the mounted animal. Glass eyes can be purchased online.
“The process could be a little shocking to someone if they’re not expecting it,” she says. “You have to make an incision down the center and make a few separations of the legs, the tail and the wings. Then you cut them off. You basically have to get the skin and the bones very, very clean. And then you use wire and string to kind of put it back together.”
Still, after her first taxidermy experience, with a chick, she couldn’t eat meat for a while. “But now it’s very easy for me,” she says. Drago believes that more women are getting into taxidermy because they’re seeing other women doing it—and succeeding. “The reason why I keep going is because I found teachers online that are also women. And now I’m at a point where I’m getting contacted by other women all the time who are also interested in learning,” she says. “I think that what’s happening is really special. There’s a lot to learn from taxidermy: It’s art, it’s nature, and there’s also a conservation aspect to it.”
A LOVE FOR ANIMALSDrago was drawn to taxidermy because it combined her love for animals with her background as an artist.
“It’s weird, because I don’t see the animals as dead. A big part of why I do what I do is to breathe new life into them. And I really wanted to learn more about birds, so I thought this was also a really good way to do that as well,” she says.
Drago has been selling some of her mounted birds to Paula Lopez, who recently opened a store in Montclair called UnLucky Rabbit, where she sells taxidermy, curiosities and oddities, and also offers tattooing.
Lopez’s shop focuses on artistic taxidermy—with quirky tableaux of animals in unusual and unexpected positions—and caters more to the collector than the hunter. For instance, she has a taxidermy rat in a bathtub talking on the phone, a groundhog perched in a bed of flowers, and a cowboy duckling wearing a hat. Prices range from $150 for small birds up to $1,000 for some bigger pieces.The difference between artistic and traditional taxidermy, she says, is that rather than focusing on deer and other animals that are hunted, her store showcases animals that aren’t typically associated with taxidermy, such as squirrels, bats and foxes. Lopez also sells oddities, such as a mink purse with the legs and tail of a mink attached. “We don’t kill anything on purpose. Everything is repurposed,” Lopez says. “We consider taxidermy as the ability to make animals come alive again for people to enjoy them.” Sometimes, Lopez says people inquire about having their pets mounted, but that is considered especially challenging for taxidermists because it’s difficult to get the animals’ expressions just right. Lopez believes there’s been a resurgence in taxidermy because it’s now being viewed more as artwork than as a trophy to hang on the wall. “I always loved animals, and I really like the idea of being able to preserve them and look at them and love them,” she says. “We really try to bring out the essence of the animal in our pieces.”
She continues, “I have lots of pets, and terrible as it sounds, they don’t have permanence. But with taxidermy, they can literally last forever.”
[caption id="attachment_323235" align="alignnone" width="778"] UnLucky Rabbit in Montclair Photo: Gail Ghezzi[/caption]And more celebrities are becoming enamored with taxidermy. Last year, the actress Demi Moore gave herself a taxidermied baby donkey for her 60th birthday; Wes Anderson, Amanda Seyfried, Angelina Jolie and New Jersey native Martha Stewart are also enthusiasts. Lopez says she’s even run into Drew Barrymore at taxidermy shows.
While taxidermy isn’t for everyone, it’s definitely becoming more mainstream.
As Lopez says, “It’s really funny, because we get two types of reactions walking into the store. People either love it and are like, ‘Oh my God, what a beautiful piece of art,’ versus the other response, [which] is like, ‘Oh my God, poor thing.’ And I’m like, ‘But why poor thing?’ The misconception is that we go out and kill them. But we don’t.”
“Most people who are into taxidermy love animals more than any other people that I’ve ever met in my life. They will stop on the side of the road to help an animal way before anybody else would. We are literally giving the animal an afterlife, and we get to enjoy them for a very long time,” Lopez says.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Taxidermy Isn’t Dead! And For These NJ Women, It’s Cooler Than Ever Before appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Long Gone, Come Homeby Monica Chenault-KilgoreHarperCollins
Written by Edison resident Monica Chenault-Kilgore, Long Gone, Come Home tells the story of Birdie, a young woman who lives in rural Kentucky. In the midst of marriage, motherhood and a mundane job, Birdie’s life suddenly changes after her husband leaves without a trace and she witnesses a murder. Birdie and her children flee to Cincinnati, where she is swept into a tough but dreamy world of jazz and clubs.—Olivia Bardo
Night Watchby Jayne Anne PhillipsKnopf
In this novel, which was long-listed for the National Book Award for fiction, Jayne Anne Phillips takes the reader to West Virginia in the 1860s, where a young girl travels with her mother to an asylum for treatment. The woman has not spoken in more than a year. There, they try to reclaim their lives in the wake of the Civil War. Phillips, a longtime New Jersey resident, is a former professor at Rutgers University. —Jacqueline Mroz
Mary Climbs In: The Journeys of Bruce Springsteen’s Women Fansby Lorraine Mangione and Donna LuffRutgers University Press
In a career that spans more than half a century, Bruce Springsteen has an international fan base that encompasses multiple generations. Mary Climbs In examines the ties that bind one segment of his audience: women. The authors surveyed 1,150 women online in this look at fans and the audience-artist relationship. —Tom Wilk
Reality Checkby Mike "The Situation" SorrentinoBallast Books
Life hasn't been all glitz and glamour for Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino, the star of Jersey Shore who skyrocketed to fame after the iconic MTV show debuted in 2009. Although he's been open in recent years about his battles, including addiction, not until now, in his very candid new memoir (out December 19), has he delved so deeply into his personal life. “At a certain point, when I was down to the rock bottom of rock bottoms, I would sometimes think to myself, What’s worse? Never going for your dreams, or achieving them?” Sorrentino tells New Jersey Monthly. Reality Check is for the person on your list who's a fan of Jersey Shore or pop culture in general, or who loves a celebrity comeback story. —Julie Gordon
Walk the Darkness Downby Daniel MagarielBloomsbury
The dark, lonely days of winter in a mid-Atlantic coastal town provide the background for this story of a commercial fisherman and his wife adrift after the loss of their daughter. The Cape May author details harrowing voyages of a crew to the Hudson Canyon off the Jersey Shore and the desperate efforts of his wife to help wayward women in a nearly empty beach resort. —R.C. Staab
Remarkable Stories of New Jersey Golfby Kevin Casey Legendary
The perfect gift for the golf lover with a healthy dose of Jersey pride, this oversized, 244-page coffee-table book is filled with interesting stories and beautiful photos showcasing the sport’s history in the Garden State—from a section on the creation of the famed Pine Valley course to a historic black-and-white snap of Babe Ruth playing golf here. —JG
Zero-Sum: Storiesby Joyce Carol OatesKnopf
A vein of horror runs though this short-story collection from one of our greatest and most prolific writers (and a Princeton emerita professor). In the darkly funny centerpiece story, an author with bipolar disorder drafts different versions of his own suicide. There are two apocalyptic tales and one called “Monstersister,” in which a parasite grows out of a girl’s skull and becomes a new being. —Julia Martin
From the Hill by the Seaby Seadon ShouseHalifax Hoboken
In this beautiful book, which is part cookbook and part memoir, Chef Shouse travels back to his native Nova Scotia, where he grew to love the sea, foraging and cooking. As the chef at the Halifax restaurant at the W Hotel in Hoboken, Shouse brings his delicious native cuisine to diners. His book weaves memories of his childhood fishing, foraging and cooking. —Jacqueline Mroz
Coleman Hillby Kim Coleman Foote ZandoSJP Lit Imprint
In her debut novel, New Jersey native Kim Coleman Foote draws inspiration from her own family stories. Set during the Great Migration, two women leave behind their hometown and head to New Jersey. After the deaths of both of their husbands, they link their families, experiencing the rise and fall of heartbreak, loss and consequences for 70 years. —Olivia Bardo
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post New Jersey-Themed Books That Make Great Holiday Gifts appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_323034" align="alignnone" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]Designer Sheila Bridges’s nouveau toile candles feature graphics of African Americans in playful poses; $44 at lorde-seraphine.com. Skip the coffee shop with the Chefman espresso, cappuccino, latte and frothing; $149 at chefman.com.Invite the Mercer canvas overnight bag on your holiday travels. Monogramming available; $279 at potterybarn.com. Glam it up with this sparkly frock trimmed in feathers and sequins; $320 at nordstrom.com.Surprise that special someone with a Schwinn Adult 700c $899.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Stash your trinkets in this lacquered Wise Box with 18k gold-plated owl. Available in burgundy or teal; $450 at janetmavec.com.What’s Christmas without cashmere? Available in baby blue and other colors, these beauties are a winter must-have; $78 at bloomingdales.com.Fluffy, hooded robe in oatmeal by Frette can be embroidered for a personal touch; $150 at sohohome.com.Your bar cart craves a cheerful, fabric-covered ice bucket; $120 each at the Ginger Jar Shop in Harding and thegingerjarshop.com.Disney’s 100th-anniversary line by Trevor Andrew features a cast of characters to brighten any day; $26.99 at hm.com.Kiddos will brave any rainy day or snowstorm with colorblocked Sticky Lemon boots; $60 at camjamkids.com.Bundle up with an insulated puffer vest in bright begonia pink; $178 at J.Crew stores and jcrew.com.Paintings made with a Belgian-chocolate canvas and gourmet colored cocoa butter are 100 percent edible. Famous masterpieces, holiday scenes, golf courses and custom renderings available. Gift boxed, each weighs 10 ounces; $250-plus at chocolatetext.com/edibleart.Available in 15 colors, these floating crystal earrings are 14k gold-plated brass; $32 at anthropologie.com. Spark Joy novelty matches bring a nostalgic, retro vibe; $15 at nathanandco.com.Caught by the pickleball craze? Your gear is here. Set of four paddles and balls; $179.95 at crateandbarrel.com.Everybody’s favorite snack just got even better with Poppy-flavored popcorns; $42 for two varieties at nordstrom.com.Enliven your table with three striking dimensional tapers; $17 at illumecandles.com. A terrific tome for the home mixologist; $19.95 at amazon.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Holiday Gift Guide: Cheer-Filled, Thoughtful and Unexpected Items for Everyone on Your List appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_319780" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]BE A WRAPPER: A between-seasons go-to, this lightweight kimono-inspired jacket is a style statement with wide sleeves and a belted waist; $145 at nordstrom.com.EARTH TONES: The Fidji pillow from the Free Spirit collection features hand-embroidered details; $32 at cozey.com.SINK IN: This plush, cognac-colored chair sacrifices no comfort for style; $1,998 at luluandgeorgia.com. TABLE TALK: A tightly rendered diamond pattern adds interest to this table runner, which serves as a centerpiece with or without table settings; $9.99 at hm.com.LOOK AT ME: The oversized Anuel floor mirror, rendered in oak and walnut, visually opens up any room and adds an architectural touch; $2,295 at sohohome.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Cozy, Comforting Finds We Love for Fall appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
If you’re looking to acquire or sell fine artwork, vintage or antique furniture, objets d’art, jewelry or fashion, the Magnusson Group of Morristown covers the spectrum with estate sales, online auctions and appraisals.One of the most interesting elements of their business is family estates. “Often, we find unusual things in unexpected places,” says daughter Lauren Magnusson, an appraiser and the sales director of the family business. “Once, we discovered a 1-carat diamond ring hidden in an I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter container buried in a woman’s freezer.”Founder and CEO Lynn Magnusson adds, “Sometimes, families have no idea what the value is. In a hidden closet, we once found 300 unopened bottles of Johnny Walker and other Prohibition spirits. We’ve also been asked to appraise rare antique books, comic books, coins, gems, luxury handbags, contemporary art, and even Louis XIV’s personal nursery rhyme book.” Recently, while perusing the contents of an understated apartment, Lynn spied a piece of art stashed behind the fridge. The owner said, “Just take it. The family hates it,” but after researching, she advised the owner it was an oil painting worth six figures.[caption id="attachment_319772" align="alignnone" width="778"] Lauren, Lynn and Drew Magnusson. Photo: Courtesy of the Magnusson Group[/caption]Lynn, along with husband Drew, began the business in 1994, before the appraisal industry was regulated. Today, she is one of the only appraisers in the world to hold accredited/certified memberships in all three of the personal-property accreditation associations: the Appraisers Association of America (AAA), the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) and the International Society of Appraisers (ISA). President and senior appraiser Drew Magnusson owned Rascal’s White Elephant Bar & Grill in Ocean Township in the 1990s, dabbled in auctioneering, and then became a USPAP-compliant appraiser.Today, he specializes in the metal market, art and antiques, and also runs their online auctions. “Since the pandemic, the online marketplace, especially for vintage and sustainable items, has blossomed,” Drew says.[RELATED: Best Thrift Stores and Consignment Shops in NJ]
After headquartering in Harding Township for 15 years, the Magnusson Group recently relocated to a sparkly, 2,500-square-foot, open-to-the-public space in Morristown. Retail inventory includes antique, vintage and contemporary artwork, furniture, silver, porcelain, luxury goods and jewelry.The store is open 9 am-4 pm Monday through Friday, with special events scheduled after hours (162 Ridgedale Avenue; 973-425-1550).HOW TO SNAG THE BEST ESTATE-SALE STUFFIs there a strategy behind getting the biggest bang for your buck at an estate sale? “You bet!” says Lauren Magnusson, who shares her top tips:1. If you’re first in line on the first day, you’ll pay a higher asking price. Negotiate a lower price by making your offer in the middle of the last day. 2. Rather than saying, “I’ll give you...” or “What’s the best you can do?” lower your voice and politely try, “Would you accept...?”3. Be sure to remove your purchases from the property before the sale ends, or expect to pay more for future access.4. Check in advance to see which forms of payment are accepted. Paying in cash typically yields a better price.
Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Morristown Auction House Buys and Sells the Cool, Rare and Quirky appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
C’mon, Barbie fans—let’s go shopping!The Barbie Dreamhouse Living Tour will make its final Garden State stop at the Cherry Hill Mall this Saturday, October 14.The 2023 Barbie Truck Tour began this summer at the National Barbie Doll Collectors Convention in Orlando, Florida, days before Greta Gerwig’s record-breaking Barbie movie hit theaters in July. The tour has been bringing colorful, whimsical merchandise to Barbie aficionados across the country since—including at the Garden State Plaza in Paramus and Menlo Park Mall in Edison. Prior Barbie-themed tours took place in 2019 and 2021.[caption id="attachment_317795" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Barbie Truck Tour has been traveling across the country since July. Photo: Courtesy of Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour[/caption]The tour celebrates the 60th anniversary of Barbie’s first Dreamhouse, released in 1962. Barbie-themed home accessories available for purchase include drink coasters, purple glass accessory cups with gold lids, and light pink throw blankets printed with groovy purple flowers.Merchandise includes a lavender denim jacket with Barbie embroidery and a light pink corduroy baseball cap. Other fun accessories: A pink thermal water bottle and glass tumbler with Barbie straw toppers, travel pouches, a pink corduroy tote with lavender handles, a gold necklace with various Barbie charms, a glass mug with pops of pink and orange, and a set of patches (perfect for affixing to the tote or jacket!).[caption id="attachment_317794" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Choose from an array of colorful Barbie-themed merchandise and accessories. Photo: Courtesy of Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour[/caption]Adult-sized apparel ranges from $20 to $75, accessories $15 to $35, drinkware $24 to $35, housewares $15 to $40, and ceramics $15 to $30. Only credit cards are accepted (no cash).Catch the Barbie Truck Tour at the Cherry Hill Mall near the food-court entrance from 10 am-7 pm on Saturday, October 14. Follow or partake in Barbie’s cross-country adventure with the hashtag #BarbieTruckTour on all social media platforms.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Barbie Truck Tour Making a Pit Stop in Cherry Hill; Exclusive Merchandise Available appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
If you’ve ever wondered how an actor transforms into a scary character in your favorite Halloween movie, the School of Makeup Effects (SOME) in Totowa will show you the tricks of the trade. At SOME, students who are eager to work in the industry learn everything from the basics of color theory to advanced practices like sculpting, molding and prosthetic application. Students have the chance to practice techniques on real people during hands-on class sessions. The intensive curriculums include classes tailored to varied skill levels for beauty and editorial artistry, master molding and sculpting and more. Each requires hundreds of hours of hands-on practice that may include layering materials to create realistic looks like bruises, burns, and wounds that shoot fake blood. They also learn how to cast, mold and sculpt the face, neck, chest, hands and arms to create creatures.During the month of October, owner Lindsey Novotny has students create prosthetic looks based on their favorite Halloween movies, such as Friday the 13th and Beetlejuice. The school’s Instagram page shares photos of students’ work, with everything from zombies to woodland creatures to creepy clowns.[caption id="attachment_317083" align="alignnone" width="778"] In October, students create creepy prosthetic looks inspired by their favorite Halloween movies. Photo: Courtesy of School of Makeup Effects[/caption]“I really built the curriculum based off of everything I thought I was missing and all the mistakes I made as a makeup artist in television and film,” she says. “You’re running your own business, and it’s a lot more than just doing the makeup.”Novotny, an Oakland native, is an industry expert. She’s worked in the film and television industry for over 10 years alongside A-list celebrities, and on the sets of network television shows. In addition to makeup and prosthetics, the program also teaches students how to build their businesses and brands, as well as how to pay taxes. Novotny and her business partner, Angelica Medina, opened the studio in Totowa in 2016. Just in time for spooky season, on October 7, SOME is offering a virtual class on how to create Halloween-ready makeup looks. Registration for the class is $200 and can be done online.“We go over what you could create that you could get from your local Party City,” Novotny says, adding that many of the teens who attend the virtual Halloween workshop are interested in continuing their education at SOME.“It’s a good way for us to be able to include our younger audience so they can kind of dabble and play a little bit, too,” Novotny says. Visit schoolofmakeupeffects.com to learn more.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post How Do Makeup Artists Transform Faces for TV and Film? This NJ Academy Will Show You appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_315669" align="alignnone" width="778"] Amy Littleson McNitt Photo: Courtesy of @kate.mcreynolds photography[/caption]Amy Littleson McNitt • @amylittlesonMega-blogger | Long Beach Island“Each autumn, I dance it out on a dreary day with indoor DanceBody workout classes so I don’t ‘fall’ into a post-summer slump. And I stock up on cozy fleece staples by female-founded brand Dudley Stephens, the chicest, softest turtlenecks and pullovers for colder months.”[caption id="attachment_315670" align="alignnone" width="778"] Tara Thorsen Photo: Courtesy of @laurelcreative[/caption]Tara Thorsen • @thefashionhousemomStyle expert | Bernardsville“Fall style is all about the classics. My go-to easy look is a white button-down shirt with a fun detail like a ruffle collar. Pair it with medium-rinse jeans or a floral midi skirt and boots for effortless style. Add a trench coat, but leave it open to top off the look.”[caption id="attachment_315672" align="alignnone" width="778"] Nydia Figueroa Photo: Courtesy of @aprilsixsmithphotography[/caption]Nydia Figueroa • @nydiafigueroamuaMakeup artist + beauty expert | Montclair“Start a fall skincare routine to exfoliate, cleanse and hydrate. Next, instead of getting your makeup tips from YouTube, go to your local makeup store for a lesson. My favorite is the Jones Road flagship in Montclair. Then treat yourself to a beautiful, bouncy blowout!”[caption id="attachment_315674" align="alignnone" width="778"] Cara Brown Photo: Courtesy of @violettabphotography[/caption]Cara Brown • @carabrowndesignsJewelry designer | Hopewell“Classic, classic, classic. No matter the year, no matter the season, I espouse only one trend. For me, it is never about a revolution, but rather an ongoing evolution of classic looks and small-batch fashion that transcends trend.”[caption id="attachment_315675" align="alignnone" width="778"] Kimberly Cignarella Photo: Courtesy of @homeacrescreative[/caption]Kimberly Cignarella • @kimcigofficialFashion designer | Whippany“Carry over timeless pieces, but also infuse newness in your wardrobe. Barbiecore’s aesthetic will evolve in all shades of pink, fabrications and textures. Try a monochromatic power suit (even pink!) to exude confidence and turn heads wherever you go.”Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post NJ Influencers Share Their Top Style Tips for Fall appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The Lord & Taylor department store was a mainstay in Westfield for nearly 60 years, a venerable anchor on the edge of the Union County suburb’s vibrant downtown.
But the store turned off the cash registers and shut its doors in 2020. That left a void—but also an opportunity to reengineer a walkable and bikeable “downtown of the future,” says Mayor Shelley Brindle, who is backing a plan to use more than $400 million in private investment for mixed-use redevelopment, totaling 14 acres, at the Lord & Taylor site and nearby town-owned parking lots.
Like the Westfield Lord & Taylor, many stand-alone downtown department stores have become relics, swept aside by suburban malls and, more recently, online shopping. A number of cities and towns around the state—including Asbury Park, Morristown, Newark, Hackensack and Millburn—have acted to remake the sites that were once the heart of their downtowns.
The projects take advantage of a wider trend in the Garden State: a surge of downtown multifamily and mixed-use development reflecting residents’ growing interest in living in dense, pedestrian-friendly environments—the same vibe that attracted the department stores so many decades ago.
“People want to live in compact, walkable places. They want to be able to drive less, and that’s historically how our cities and towns and downtowns were developed, before the car was king,” says Peter Kasabach, executive director of NJ Future, a Trenton-based nonprofit that advocates for smart growth and redevelopment. The best downtown redevelopments, he adds, offer pedestrians a variety of experiences: window shopping, people watching, getting coffee, eating in a restaurant.
[RELATED: 12 Small Towns to Visit Now]
Developers and municipalities see opportunity in the old department store properties, which often include large parking lots and can offer a relatively expansive canvas for their ambitions.
Short Hills-based Garden Communities is building a $110 million, 270-unit apartment and townhouse rental community called the Metropolitan on the site of a former Saks Fifth Avenue in Springfield, adjoining Millburn.
“For a 10-acre parcel to be available on Millburn Avenue on the border of Springfield and Millburn is really something that was hard to come by,” says Scott Loventhal, managing director of Garden Communities.
Another nearby department store, a former Lord & Taylor in Millburn, has already been converted into a mixed-use building that holds medical offices, a Trader Joe’s and a CVS.
[caption id="attachment_315026" align="aligncenter" width="778"] The One Westfield Place proposal includes retail space, 300,000 square feet of office space, more than 200 apartments and townhouses, parking garages, green space, and pathways adjacent to the train station. Rendering courtesy of Streetworks Development[/caption]
Saks left its Springfield site in 1994, moving to the Mall at Short Hills (That location then closed in 2016). The Springfield property sat empty for decades, as local opposition and fears about traffic stymied a proposal to build a supermarket. According to Loventhal, the Metropolitan is expected to generate revenues for Springfield of about $1.1 million a year, projected to rise to $2.2 million in later years, through a 30-year payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement. Before the redevelopment, the site generated annual property taxes of about $200,000, Loventhal says.
PILOTs are based on a percentage of a project’s yearly revenues and typically generate less than the actual tax rate. They’re frequently used to encourage redevelopment; in some places, municipal officials say, the deals wouldn’t happen without the tax breaks. But some critics, including those opposing the Westfield plan, complain about the use of PILOTs in well-heeled suburbs, which they say can attract development without them.
Shuttered Spaces
Many of the departed department stores have colorful histories and memorable stories that still resonate. At Steinbach’s in Asbury Park, holiday shoppers got a shock in 1949, when a mechanical Santa toppled over and burst into flames. The Seeing Eye of Morristown used Epstein’s department store in the heart of town to train guide dogs to navigate interior spaces, because “it offered elevators, escalators and a variety of floor surfaces,” says Michelle Barlak, a spokeswoman for the Seeing Eye. And the facade of the Century 21 in Morristown features medallions honoring George Washington and other notables of New Jersey’s Revolutionary history.
Between Epstein’s and Century 21, Morristown has more experience than most communities with obsolete department stores. The family-owned Epstein’s closed in 2004, after 90 years in business. By 2010, the site was redeveloped into 40 Park, consisting of condos and ground-floor retail and restaurants. Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty says the redevelopment, along with other projects, has helped enliven the downtown, where folks relax on the Green, stroll the sidewalks, and eat and drink at the many restaurants.
It’s also a financial help. According to the mayor, Epstein’s used to pay about $300,000 a year in taxes; in contrast, 40 Park brings in annual tax revenues of about $2.8 million.
“We’re in it to get more ratables and bring people into our downtown,” says Dougherty. “If you walk this town, you can see the result of what’s going on— people are walking around and spending money in our businesses. People want to live in downtowns. Small urban centers like Morristown are very attractive.”
[RELATED: Downtowns Are Breathing New Life Into Empty Old Banks]
But diagonally across the Green from 40 Park, the red-brick Century 21 department store has been vacant since the discount retailer declared bankruptcy in late 2020, the victim of a Covid sales slump. The building dates to 1949, when it opened as a Bamberger’s; it was later rebranded as Macy’s, but closed in 1993 and sat empty until Century 21 took the space in 2002. A recent peek through the storefront windows showed empty counters and shelves, and clothing racks huddled in forlorn groups.
What comes next for the building is not clear. The owner, Penobscot Management, which also owns most of the nearby properties along that side of the Green, has not announced plans and did not respond to requests for comment.
A Destination Downtown
In Hackensack, plans are taking shape for the redevelopment of the landmark Sears built in 1932, as the city was becoming “a destination downtown,” says Albert Dib, director of redevelopment and economic development for the city. The Sears closed in 2020. The city expects the site to be redeveloped as a mixed-use project, part of a larger effort to revive Hackensack’s old shopping district and other neighborhoods, with an estimated 4,000 apartments planned or built in recent years.
In many of these redevelopment projects, developers find it’s not practical to keep the old buildings. But Hackensack officials want the Sears redevelopment to preserve the original Art Deco architecture.
In Asbury Park, the iconic V-shaped building that housed the flagship Steinbach department store was renovated with restaurants and retail on the ground floor and 63 loft-style apartments on the three floors above. The building, which dates to 1897 and became an eyesore after the department store closed in 1979, is considered a linchpin in the rebirth of Cookman Avenue. At around the same time, the Steinbach in Red Bank was remade into a home for the high-end clothier Garmany, reflecting the rising fortunes of that downtown.
The redevelopment of Hahne’s in Newark preserved the 1901-vintage store, including its airy, open atrium. The 400,000-square-foot store was vacant from 1987 to 2017, when it reopened as a Whole Foods Market, 160 apartments, a Barnes & Noble book store serving the Rutgers-Newark campus, and Express Newark, a Rutgers-created center for socially conscious art and design.
Another Hahne’s store, in the heart of downtown Montclair, has been replaced by apartments.
An Ambitious Plan
The Westfield redevelopment plan, dubbed One Westfield Place, is one of the most ambitious department store rehabs. It includes retail space, 300,000 square feet of office space, more than 200 apartments and townhouses, parking garages, green space, and pathways adjacent to the downtown train station.
Backers say it will draw more foot traffic to the central business district, but opponents say it’s too big and fear it will compete with existing businesses. A suit has been filed to block the plan, and there are more than 2,400 signatures on a petition urging town leaders to rethink the development.
But town review and approvals are proceeding, and Mayor Brindle says the first stages of the redevelopment could begin in late 2024. The Westfield plan is spearheaded by Streetworks Development, the redevelopment arm of the Canada-based Hudson’s Bay Company, owners of Saks and Lord & Taylor.
Like other projects around the state, the Westfield plan is a public-private partnership that uses PILOTs.
Brindle notes that the Westfield plan includes more than $54 million in long-term public improvements funded by the PILOT, such as upgraded intersections and new green space.
“Our community is going to be in good hands for the future,” she says.
Kathleen Lynn and Patricia Alex are contributing writers to New Jersey Monthly. Both are former reporters and editors at The Record of Bergen County.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post How NJ Downtowns Are Reinventing Themselves in the Face of Change appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Entering the world of wonders that is Cheech & Roo is a sensory experience. From the visually enchanting entryway, with framed vintage photographs and elegantly poised statuary, to the inviting scent that at once seems familiar and new. The space feels homey. Music plays softly, and guests feel welcome to indulge the urge to run a hand along one of the smooth, glossy painted chests or tug open an ornate, brass-handled drawer.
Creating this haven for all things antique, beautiful and peculiar was the natural result of owner Elisa Miranda following her instincts. “I’m visual; I want people to walk in and be wowed. There’s texture and layering; walls aren’t just painted, they are stamped or Venetian plastered.”
A former art student, in 2014 Miranda gave an old dresser she owned a new look with paint and fell in love with revitalizing and repurposing furniture.
“At that time, it was all about chalk painting,” says the exuberant Roselle Park resident, “but that trend passed.” Today, she says, the glassy finish of lacquer is the hot furniture fad, adding, “I can do any look.” Her repertoire of custom finishes is broad and her verve about the work even more vast. “We do new pieces, heirlooms, kitchen cabinets. We pick up and deliver, everything,” she says.
[caption id="attachment_314655" align="alignnone" width="778"] Miranda’s quirky items range from vintage dishes to porcelain teeth to a church’s confessional kneeler. Photo: Erik Rank[/caption]
Miranda says Garwood—known as the small town with a big heart—is an ideal location, sandwiched between the tony, million-dollar-house towns of Westfield and Cranford. “But it doesn’t matter what kind of car you drive up in,” she says.
“People are always telling me to change my prices. But I believe living good can be affordable. Bring your kids, bring your coffee. I want the just-looking crowd to come in and wander. I don’t follow people around. You can look, and you can leave. It’s about the experience.”
Maybe you will buy something, maybe you won’t—but if you see a clever arrangement of vintage pipes and go home and style your grandfather’s collection similarly, Miranda says she’ll be delighted.
Filled with repurposed furniture, Cheech & Roo is also a treasure of vintage home goods and quirky finds, plus items Miranda just loves, like goods from Bridgewater Candle Company, images from travel photographer Scott Levy of Rahway, and fanciful handmade jewelry by Bill Wagner of Cranford.
“Sometimes people come in with laptops and lounge. There’s even a couple having an engagement party here,” Miranda says. “The space has taken on its own life.”
Cheech & Roo, 246 North Avenue, Garwood; 908-619-9693
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post This Garwood Shop Is a Haven for All Things Antique, Beautiful and Peculiar appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_313217" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]
WHERE'S THE PARTY? Playful cotton-and-silk top rocks whimsical tassels; $220 at the Carrie Dunham flagship in Bay Head and carriedunham.com.
LAIDBACK LUXE: Hand-printed florals decorate cotton cushions that are perfect for summer picnics or poolside lounging; $298 at anthropologie.com.
JUMP RIGHT IN: The 1989 Scoopback swimsuit sports a classic navy bouquet print; $128 at J.Crew stores and jcrew.com.
TABLE READY: Keaton paisley cotton napkins add a punch of pretty to any tablescape. Set of four, $40 at Pottery Barn and potterybarn.com.
UNDER COVER: Cambria cotton bedding was inspired by a vintage block-print pattern. Twin, queen and king sizes; prices vary at serenaandlily.com.
EASY BREEZY: Comfy and lightweight, the Marea House Dress takes you from beach to beyond; $228 at shopmarea.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Breezy Block-Printed Pieces for Summer appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_310730" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos: Courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]
ON DUTY: Lifesaving style is delivered with this print by Maria Folger, available on metal, canvas or paper; from $40 at saatchiart.com.
GLOBAL ENTRY: The Royal Jelly Harlem placemats introduce vibrant West African motifs on quilted cotton. Set of two; $56 at nordstrom.com.
A COOL COCOON: Sink into the Magnolia Cuddle chair with its oversized egg shape fashioned from woven, all-weather resin and topped with Sunbrella cushions; $699.99 at sunvilla.com.
GET LIT: This flameless, glass-free outdoor lantern is durable and stylish in black-powder-coated metal; $42 at lights.com.
TO SERVE WITH LOVE: This bright, friendly, striped tableware sports beachy hues; sold individually from $19.99 each at hm.com.
SEA LIFE: The Whimsical collection of borosilicate-glass tumblers is lightweight, yet sturdy and eye-catching. Set of four; $100 at sprezznyc.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Spruce Up Your Patio or Poolside With These Backyard Beauties appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_310945" align="aligncenter" width="1160"] Mieux Swim's new eco-friendly Back to Black collection. Photo: Courtesy of DPGotcha[/caption]
This season, Trenton-based swimsuit designer Selina McCoy introduced the first full bathing suit and coverup collections for her company, Mieux Swim, which launched in 2021.
We spoke with McCoy, 47, about her design concepts, and what makes Mieux—which means better in French—a timely choice for swimwear.
What is the concept behind Mieux designs, and what is the significance of the name, meaning better in French?The "better" part comes in because as we grow, we’ll offer a fully sustainable brand. Even our fabric choices play a part in being “better.” Our introductory drop used eco-friendly and non-sustainable fabrics. This season, we dropped the Back to Black Collection, and each piece is made from fabric constructed with recycled ocean materials. I know some of the impact of clothing production on the environment, so we use a manufacturer that utilizes solar power to energize their factory for production, creating less pollution. We also value the community contributions manufacturers make toward their own communities as we partner with them.
My mission is to make better production choices for the environment, but also to change how people see themselves in swimwear. The concept behind Mieux Swim is to stick with what works as far as the designs. Swimsuits can be classic or complicated. I try not to overthink [designs] too much, and I keep the pieces classic.
[caption id="attachment_310947" align="alignright" width="351"] Mieux Swim founder/owner Selina McCoy. Photo: Courtesy of Selina McCoy[/caption]
Tell us about your background.
I’ve never worked in fashion. This is me living out my daydreams in real life. I am currently a special needs school bus driver and have been since 2006. I’ve held other jobs (in hospitals, clinics and doctor offices) to supplement [financially], but it just wasn’t feeding the desire I had to have something that belonged to me.
Mieux Swim is me. It’s mine. It’s a dream that I pulled from my head and made come to life. I was a single mom when I came up with my swimwear ideas, but I never acted on it [at that time]. The vague idea of having a clothing line stayed in a marble composition notebook next to my bed for a few years. I never really turned back to that page of the notebook. It wasn’t until I was laid off due to Covid-19 while homeschooling my two elementary-age kids that I said, I must do something for myself. That’s when the work began. I literally incorporated my business, planned my wedding [and got married], and purchased a home during the Covid years. It was important to me to create my business before marrying or moving. I needed to accomplish something for myself as a [reminder] that this former single teenage mom, and now mother of four, is more than a statistic.
Although my then-fiancé, Shavar, loved me deeply and supported my work by understanding my late nights of focus on computers and phone calls, and my daily rants of frustration from the stress of being an entrepreneur, he knew I had to have this and do this on my own—and I did. Starting my own swimwear line has been about so many things that stir within me that I know my brand will evolve as I do.
Who are your partners in the business?Mieux Swim is myself, my daughters—Tavyn, 25, does everything from modeling to styling other models—and Sariah, 11, keeps me focused on the effects of social media by showing me what’s cool to her age group. And she is my go-to photographer.
My son, Devon, 30, is my accountant. He graduated from Howard University and keeps my financials sorted, and he literally asks the hard questions when needed. And then Josiah, just about to turn 9. He is my helping hand; he helps me sort, count and do things all inventory.
My daughters have two very different body types. They both have had their struggles with [body] insecurity at times. I, too, have felt insecure, numerous times, when trying things on. But once I saw that both my girls had very similar feelings of frustration with swimwear, I knew I had to do something. They are finding themselves in a world full of filters and social media influencers who flaunt plastic surgery as the go-to fix. I want my girls to know they are good enough, smart and beautiful—but moreso, worthy of having a positive self-image even if the world says different. It truly is how you feel about yourself that matters. Now, my boys—they are learning how to love the authenticity of a female. They are truly witnessing their mom and sisters reinventing love of self, and they are showing more respect outwardly toward women, so it’s all relevant.
[caption id="attachment_310949" align="aligncenter" width="1387"] Mieux Swim's Sariah bikini. Photo: Lauriane Ogay Photography[/caption]
How do you feel your designs encourage people to “value the everyday naturalness of beauty,” as your mission statement says?
My brand is here to encourage self-love and maximize positive thinking about oneself. Let’s face it—I think it’s safe to say we’ve all felt insecure when trying on a swimsuit. But why? Why do we immediately go to a negative place when we [see] ourselves in swimwear? Because we’ve adopted beliefs that we’re not good enough. That’s just not true. The truth is beauty is in our differences—differences in our hair, skin, height and weight. [These differences] add to our value, [rather than] taking it away, and until we start [embracing] positive thoughts about ourselves, we will always feel insecure. I try to include positive messaging in my social media posts and advertising to reflect a better way to think when buying swimwear.
What’s your process as you go from sketch to production?I draw things that I think would feel good and be comfortable. I have never been formally trained in any of this; I’m literally teaching myself as I go. Thank God for Fiverr and its vast number of professionals, because they have helped me with sizing, along with the formalities of design. The design I’m working on now [started] in my head, is now on paper and is then digitally created with the assistance of Fiverr.
[caption id="attachment_311112" align="aligncenter" width="1365"] Mieux Swim's Morgan suit is a vibrant plus-size option. Photo: Deezfilmz Photography[/caption]
I see you have inclusive sizing. Tell me about your choice to have sizes ranging from 4 to 3X.I knew that smaller sizes always had access to many choices in swimwear, so I wanted to offer cute, somewhat seductive looks for larger sizes. I am not small—I wanted [styles] for my daughters but also for myself.
Your website says community contributions are a large part of your business model—please explain.I do get Mieux Swim involved in the community by giving back whenever we can. When the business is doing well, I like to share. We’ve sponsored basketball teams, college [teams], minor National League [teams], soccer teams and swim clinics. We’ve donated to schools, students and parents. It has been proven: When you help others, help is given back to you—and that hasn’t failed us yet. I believe how we have given has played a huge role in the help and guidance we’ve received to help our business.
What kind of reception has Mieux received?Business is competitive, but I hope people will start purchasing with purpose, instead of buying because a celebrity name is attached to something. Good people are here in small business, but when competing against status and celebrity brands, it can be tough. I believe Mieux Swim is absolutely a better brand, from our vision, mission, messaging, involvement, movement—our entire energy is just different. Mieux Swim has done several community-event fashion shows, as well as a couple New York Fashion Week shows this season. We will be participating in some pop-up shops throughout the summer, so make sure you follow @mieuxswim on Instagram to know where we will be. We also have an email list that offers special coupons and promotions.
What are your biggest sellers?Our biggest sellers are the Rita and the Bevie bikini pieces. The Aneesah top and the Tanya bottom from our recently dropped Back to Black collection have already become popular. The collection is [comprised of] mix-and-match two-piece suits, and has been a great addition for the brand.
Where is the line sold?Currently, Mieux Swim is exclusively sold direct to customers on our website, mieuxswim.com.
What is next for Mieux?We do not currently offer trunks for men, but they are in the works. I’ve drawn a few and had one made into a sample; maybe it will be released next season. I’m deciding how I’d like to proceed in the area of coverups, as I think I could have some real fun in the creation process there. (The ones styled in the pictures are boutique items I purchased to enhance the swimwear looks.) The coverups I like are gender-neutral, depending on what a person’s style is, and we welcome that. If you like it, put it on!
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Self-Taught Designer Makes a Splash With Sustainable, Stylish Swimwear appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
EARN YOUR STRIPES: The laid-back Devotion Twins dress in comfy cotton comes in 15 patterns; $297 at anthropologie.com.
BOTANICAL BABE: Ranjana Khan’s silk flower-and-ribbon earrings sport crystal petals; $590 at neimanmarcus.com.
ITTY BITTY: The Ruffle string bikini blooms bright in cheery Liberty fabric. Top, $79.50, and bottom, $65, at jcrew.com.
CARRY ON: Hit the sand with the Beachcomber beaded crochet-mesh tote; $195 at lelesadoughi.com.
SHADY STYLE: LEMTOSH tortoise sunnies offer a retro vibe. Prescription and non-prescription available at moscot.com.
WALK THIS WAY: The Gucci Pilar espadrille sandal is adorned with a pretty petal print; $620 at nordstrom.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Refresh Your Summer Wardrobe With These Vacation-Ready Staples appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_307987" align="aligncenter" width="778"] All photos: Courtesy of the manufacturers[/caption]
WAVY NAVY: Matouk Magic Mountain cocktail napkins in blue and white are ready to party; $75 at bloomingdales.com.
TABLE THIS: Bed Threads linen placemats and napkins zhuzh up your table in French flax linen and a rainbow of colors. Set of four placemats; $80. Four napkins; $70 at anthropologie.com.
CATCH A WAVE: Ooomph’s Hobe Sound side table is custom-made with jaunty raffia inset; $1,850 at bernardinehare-design.com.
GARDEN STATE: Zimmermann’s Wonderland blouse wows in linen and silk; $750 at Nordstrom stores and nordstrom.com.
WICKER WONDER: The Honey scalloped rattan tray does double duty for serving or displaying; $124 at mrsalice.com.
WHAT'S UP: The Eastport umbrella in baby blue adds panache to any patio or pool; $1,298 at Serena & Lily stores and serenaandlily.com.
HIGH RISE: Stuart Weitzman pumps equally elevate skirts or jeans; $475 at Neiman Marcus stores and neimanmarcus.com. Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Trends We’re Loving: Scallops and Pastels appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
BEEF UP THE BACKYARD: It's never too early to be prepared for chilly nights—and this cement fire pit will look cool while it keeps you warm! The propane-based Villa boasts a clean, smoke-free flame; $399 at villaoutdoors.com.
HANDSOME & RUGGED: This Ted Baker watch with a comfortable silicone strap features a trio of subdials that add functionality; $150 at tedbaker.com.
WINE & DINE: If he's a vino lover, this petite sirah from Stags' Leap in Napa Valley will complement Dad's finest grill creations, be they barbecued meats or vegetables. The earthy blend has floral notes interwoven with a hint of black pepper and a cigar-box spice; $35 at stagleap.com.
HIP & EASY: This set of brown beaded bracelets accented with rhodium is an all-summer-long accessory. It stretches on for comfort and is waterproof; $35 at nordstrom.com.
BOOK HIS DAY: The buzz about Lambertville author James McBride's new book, The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store, is scintillating. This page-turning mystery will make time fly. Preorder for its August release; $25.20 on Amazon.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Ideas appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Growing up as a year-round LBI resident, Emily Raleigh was surrounded by hustling small-business owners.She manned the take-out counter at Ship Bottom Shellfish, taught sailing at Brant Beach Yacht Club, and worked as a sales associate at Beach Haven boutique Sur La Plage. She even carpooled with the boutique’s owner, Bonnie, on the 45-minute drive across the bridge to and from her Toms River high school, absorbing shop talk from the back seat.Although she spent years mulling how to make her mark on the world, Raleigh, now 29, didn’t consciously harbor a dream of opening a brick-and-mortar shop on her beloved island. She attended business school, founded her own media company, and worked in brand development, living everywhere from Manhattan to Boston to Hoboken.But a temporary move back to LBI with her future husband during the pandemic soon turned permanent as Raleigh mused about the possibility of launching a business on her hometown turf.[caption id="attachment_307976" align="alignnone" width="778"] Everything at the Dune Market is ethically sourced. Photo: Courtesy of Picnic Perfect LBI[/caption]She opened the doors of the Dune Market in Beach Haven last spring. The chic, cozy, thoughtfully curated shop teems with treasures that celebrate aspects of “coastal living”—leisure, serenity and self-care.“I wanted it to feel like an old LBI cottage that has been in the family for generations,” Raleigh says.[RELATED: 24 Hours in Long Beach Island]
The shop comprises three distinct sections: the cottage (home décor and kitchenware, plus vintage pieces sourced with help from Raleigh’s mom, sister and aunt), the apothecary (non-toxic bath, body and wellness products) and the bookshop (a diverse array of beach reads). Everything is ethically sourced. This May, Raleigh also launched a wedding registry, available in the store and online.And the market’s name? It arose from Raleigh’s love of LBI’s dune grass, billowing in the sea breeze. “It’s literally our protection, but it’s also this natural beauty,” she says. “It’s something that has stood the test of time [as this island has] changed through the years.”
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post At LBI’s Dune Market, a Shopkeeper Returns to Her Island Roots appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_308719" align="alignnone" width="778"] Teresa Giudice walks down the aisle at the Park Chatêau Estate & Gardens in East Brunswick. Photo: Jenna Russo (@silentcapturephoto)[/caption] Related posts fromNew Jersey Bride: * Inside Teresa Giudice and Louie Ruelas’ Wedding * Top Wedding Venues in NJ * Get Inspired by Real NJ Weddings Fifteen-hundred bobby pins, three pounds of hair, three-and-a-half hours of styling and one bejeweled crown all add up to Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice’s $10,000 wedding-day hairstyle.Lucia Casazza, Teresa’s stylist of 14 years and co-owner of the Great Cazoo Boutique & Beauty Bar in Wayne, says she wanted Teresa to “look and feel like a princess on her wedding day” last August at the glamorous Park Chateâu Estate & Gardens in East Brunswick.Because of Teresa’s large headpiece, Lucia says the TV star’s hair—which she loves to wear long—needed some height. And she certainly got it!“I refused to give her those Hollywood waves like every other bride,” Lucia tells New Jersey Bride. “That’s been trending now for long enough in New Jersey. I said, ‘I refuse to give you the same hair as everyone else.’”Although Teresa and now-husband Louie Ruelas didn't walk down the aisle until dusk, the day started at 7 am. Lucia and her team set Teresa’s hair in rollers, curled and pinned it, and executed an elaborate full installation of human-hair extensions (from the stylist’s own Lucia hair extensions line).[caption id="attachment_308645" align="alignnone" width="778"] Pre-order your copy of New Jersey Bride here to see even more photos of Teresa Giudice and Louie Ruelas' wedding. Photo: Jenna Russo (@silentcapturephoto)[/caption]Lucia says her bridal services run $2,500 and up, but that other stylists at her salon charge a range of prices.“My best advice is that a bride should do whatever she feels beautiful in on her wedding day,” Lucia says. “It’s her dream day, it’s her dream look.”Click here to continue reading this story on New Jersey Bride*.
The post All the Details on Teresa Giudice’s $10,000 Wedding Hair appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
BAG OF BLISS: Three house-made chocolate bars from Atlantic City’s fave dessert spot, Bar 32, made of Tanzanian cacao for smooth, rich flavor, are paired with a choice of red or rosé wine and presented in a handy tote; $35 at bar32chocolate.com.TO DREAM: This padded silk sleep mask completely blocks out light for solid sleep; $79 at drowsysleepco.com.SCULPTURAL STATEMENT: Artistically rendered spindle candle in 50/50 blend of beeswax and soy wax; $38 at 54celsius.com.QUEEN EVERY DAY: A royal welcome mat in sturdy coir will serve as a happy reminder every time she comes home; $59.99 at wayfair.com.TAKE WING: Diamond butterfly ring from Suzanne Kalan in 18K rose gold with .58 total carats of baguette and pave diamonds; $3,900 at londonjewelers.com.A COLORFUL CARRYALL: Expedition Subsahara Sokhna woven basket made in Senegal; $69 at nordstrom.com.The post Mother’s Day Gifts Sure to Make Her Smile appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
READY TO RUN: The stylish and lightweight Hoka Bondi 8 running shoe takes you anywhere you want to go; $165 at nordstrom.com.STASH IT AWAY: Whether your home gym is in the living room or a dedicated space, this metal locker has room for equipment and more; $549 at mustardmade.com.IT’S A STRETCH: Mix up your yoga practice with a roll of these wooden dice, each illustrated with a different pose; $18.95 at bando.com.EVERY WEAR: For workouts or leisure, this two-piece set features a tie-dyed print with a cropped hoodie; $55 at awakenedapparelco.com.LET IT RAIN: Stay on the grind, rain or shine, with this colorful rain poncho from the Move collection; $39 at hm.com.FUEL STOP: Stay hydrated with Essential Elements’ supplement that combines apple cider vinegar, sodium, potassium and buffered vitamin C. Individually packaged to take on the go; just add to your water to stay energized; $29.99 at essentialelementsnutrition.com.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Fitness-Forward Gear You’ll Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Thanks for the shout-out!
Bill Hader, of Saturday Night Live fame, showed New Jersey some love while out for a stroll in Los Angeles on Wednesday, wearing a red T-shirt emblazoned with the words “Jersey City Recreation Sports Program,” as seen in photos published by Page Six.
Hader’s rep told us the star was given the tee as a gift, but that the actor, who was born in Oklahoma and lives in Los Angeles, doesn’t know where his friend got it.
The shirt appears to be a re-creation of a vintage tee worn by Blondie member Chris Stein back in 1977. According to the brand Worn Free, which currently sells a version of the shirt, Stein found his original item in a thrift store.
Hader has no obvious ties to the Garden State. Neither does his on-again girlfriend, the stand-up comedian Ali Wong, with whom he was photographed on Wednesday.
That said, Hader did once star in a pretty funny Jersey-themed SNL skit, where he played the host of a game show called Ohhhhh!—an over-the-top fictional show “by guys from New Jersey for guys from New Jersey”—that co-starred real New Jerseyan Jon Bon Jovi. Hader even tried his hand at a New Jersey accent (you can decide for yourself how well he measures up!).
Funnily enough, Hader was photographed wearing another New Jersey-themed T-shirt last year. Henry Winkler, Hader’s co-star on the HBO show Barry, tweeted a photo of the pair last August, in which Hader was rocking a vintage-looking tee from the long-shuttered store Star Music in Morristown.
The post Bill Hader Shows New Jersey Some Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Spring is upon us, and so are warm-weather dinner parties, weddings and vacations. No wonder fans of designer Sue Sartor are embracing her effortless dresses and kaftans in classic silhouettes, intricate block prints and bright colors. We caught up with Sartor, who is originally from Summit, to get the skinny.
When did you start designing?In the early ’90s in New York City, I worked for Calvin Klein’s luxury line. I saw firsthand how being authentic and staying in your lane can do great things. Today, I’m fortunate to merge my interests of art and design by creating artisan block prints, along with my own natural silk and cotton fabrics.
What was a turning point in your career?Several years ago, I designed a unique flounce dress. When my first box of stock arrived, shoppers literally bought them on the spot. That dress silhouette, the Sue Sartor Flounce, helped define a timeless style for my line.
“Joyous prints are here to stay!” says designer Sue Sartor. Photo courtesy of Brittany Daniel
What inspires your design process?I’m inspired by vintage botanical prints and elements from the garden. Sometimes I send sketches to my artisans in India to create custom-carved block prints, or we repurpose vintage blocks. My signature details are hand-pieced contrast prints, hand piping, placket-front detailing, a contrast sash and pockets. Joyous prints are here to stay!
And your recent Anthropologie line?I’ve always admired Anthropologie, so when they reached out, it was a pinch-me moment. We collaborated to create my best-selling silhouettes in fresh, new prints, and we’re thrilled that the concept has been such a hit, with many of the styles selling out quickly.
Is your family supportive of your business?Absolutely! My husband is a general surgeon, and I waited to start my business until our three kids were grown. Once you start a business, you are your brand. Anyone who has a dream of entrepreneurship should envision everything and keep a journal of ideas. Enjoy everything you do, but be willing to outsource anything that doesn’t feed your soul.
Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post ‘A Pinch-Me Moment’: Summit-Born Designer Brings Signature Dresses to Anthropologie appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
All photos courtesy of the manufacturers
TURN IT ON: Meg Braff’s brass table lamp with a scalloped shade perks up any space. Available in baby blue and other hues; $900 at megbraffdesigns.com. TREASURE CHEST: The Currey & Co. Santos chest in rattan and mahogany wows with a groovy swirl pattern; $2,765 from CWI.Design in New Providence. IN FULL BLOOM: Clarence House fabric and wallpaper in Marguerite pattern will elevate your home with garden-fresh style. Available at clarencehouse.com.SO SIMPLE: The classically elegant Ellen chair by Dowel Furniture is as comfy as it is chic; $1,500 at dowelfurniturecompany.com.STEP ON IT: Matilda Goad’s jute and wool rug delights with a whimsical squiggle pattern. Various sizes available at anthropologie.com.TAKE A SEAT: The new Chatham sofa offers luxe, button-tufted comfort. Fully customizable at Serena & Lily stores and serenaandlily.com.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Chic Pieces to Refresh Your Space This Spring appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Tempaper & Co.’s wallpaper can be seamlessly removed and replaced without damaging walls. Photo courtesy of Tempaper & Co.
Twin sisters Jennifer Matthews and Julia Biancella Au, Jersey natives, became business partners in 2008, when they launched Tempaper. Their business revolutionized wallpaper by making it readily removable without damaging walls.
The Brick-based company’s self-adhesive designs come in hundreds of styles that run the gamut from classic to modern looks.
Celebrating its 15th anniversary with a rebranded name, Tempaper & Co., the company has put forth a revitalized website, collaborations with brands like alice+olivia, and new ventures, such as wall decals, murals and vinyl floor mats.
Wallflowers? There’s nothing shy about twin sisters Jennifer Matthews, left, and Julia Biancella Au’s peel-and-stick wall designs. Photo courtesy of Tempaper & Co.
How long does Tempaper stay up?This is our most asked question. Words like temporary are used to describe peel-and-stick wallpaper because of how the product peels off, not when. Tempaper is a long- or short-term design choice.
What is the most creative use of Tempaper a customer has shared?Along with transforming entire rooms, customers create accent walls, line bookcases, stair risers and ceilings. Tempaper has been used for backdrops on production sets for film and television, photography backdrops, retail displays, trade show booths and wedding venues.
What trends do you see in color and/or patterns for 2023?Our team is focused on embracing a traditional design aesthetic that leans into past art movements and styles, pairing them with a contemporary color palette.
The brand has always been inspired by vintage looks, especially with our chinoiserie collections. Designs for 2023 will also incorporate a lot of layering, with neutral tones with decomposed geometrics and coastal-influenced patterns. An example of that is the most recent launch, the Wild Canvas Collection, which features playful palms and folklore prints.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post These NJ Sisters Were Early Pioneers of Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Jessica and Jeff Gurtman fell in love with their 100-year-old house years before they owned it. “Our family used to live right next door,” Jeff says. “We had always admired the home that belonged to our good friends. When they sold it to us in 2019, it was an easy move—we just carried our stuff across the backyard.”
The Gurtmans are passionate about mid-century, industrial, and eclectic vintage and antique furniture and artwork. Their Maplewood home embraces a masterful mix of paintings, sculpture and objets d’art with pedigreed provenance, as well as quirky curiosities, all thoughtfully picked, researched and displayed.
Jessica and Jeff Gurtman hunt for treasures throughout New Jersey and the tristate area together. Photo by Laura Moss
“What started as a hobby with my husband evolved into our little family business, Essex Co. Vintage, in 2017,” Jessica says. They sell through essexcovintage.com, Instagram (@essexcovintage), and occasionally at pop-up shops and holiday boutiques. “We love our side gig, but it doesn’t pay the mortgage,” Jeff says.
Somewhat surprisingly, these two creative spirits maintain non-artistic day jobs. Jessica is a manager for a global tech company, overseeing strategic partnerships. Jeff, an executive with a consulting firm, creates and measures customer loyalty in the hospitality, retail and heath care industries. A decade ago, he gained a level of celebrity as one of the hosts of the Travel Channel’s Travel Spies, visiting and rating global hospitality destinations undercover.
Today, the Gurtmans orchestrate most of their treasure hunting in New Jersey and the tristate area, pursuing their collecting passion as a team. “Some couples golf or bowl together. We buy and sell art, décor and furniture,” Jeff says.
A tour of their comfortable, unfussy home is peppered with comments like, “We found this art at an estate sale, and that vase at a flea market, and this lamp was my mom’s—and this chair some guy just gave us because he didn’t have room for it.”
In the family room, an Alex Katz textile steals the show, flanked by an Eames lounge chair and woven wicker coyote by Mario Torres. Photo by Laura Moss
Among their most desired collectibles are carved tramp art frames, folk-art heads and busts, old oil portraits, vintage lucite, and animal figures in wood, leather and brass. “We like things that other people don’t have,” Jessica says. A self-taught artist, she also paints and sells her framed artwork in their online shop.
Almost everything displayed in the playfully patterned, circa-1920 home has been previously loved. “Jess and I coalesce around the intriging details of each piece. We edit each other and both have veto power,” Jeff admits. “To us, buying vintage is as much about a love of the past as it is protection for our planet,” Jessica adds.
Jessica and Jeff Gurtman’s dining room décor pops with Morris & Co. Brer Rabbit wallpaper, a nod to the family of bunnies that resides in the backyard; a huge, round table teamed with eight ghost chairs; a buffet created by designer Vladimir Kagan’s father; and a trove of funky paintings and objets d’art. Photo by Laura Moss
“People see our home and are surprised that kids live here. But we think it’s possible for children to enjoy vintage art and décor in a lived-in space. We realize that homes are meant to be lived in, so we buy high-quality, but not-too-precious, pieces that last. Worst case, if something breaks, it’s an excuse to replace it with a new find,” Jeff says. “It’s not uncommon to drag our kids, ages 7 and 5, out of the house at 6 am to arrive at the Golden Nugget flea market in Lambertville before daybreak. We hope to instill in them an appreciation for old things.”
The family’s renovated kitchen offers a neutral backdrop pumped up with a collection of copper teapots and folk art. Photo by Laura Moss
Jessica adds, “The part we enjoy most is finding and sharing art that brings our customers joy. The moment this business becomes work, we’ll hang it up. But for now, we’re having a blast.”
When will the Gurtmans stop collecting cool old stuff? “Never,” assures Jeff.
Follow our style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Life Imitates Art in This Treasure-Filled Maplewood Home appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
With the proceeds from sales of embroidered bags, shirts and pillows, Afghan refugees can help support their families. Photo courtesy of Veronica Yankowski
In August 2021, Montclair resident Leila Faridi was horrified to see Afghan families fleeing their country in the wake of the American military withdrawal. “The scenes at the airport—it was incredibly heartbreaking,” Faridi recalls. “I felt like those little kids were my own kids.”
Determined to help somehow, Faridi contacted a refugee-assistance organization in Jersey City, Welcome Home, which introduced her to Afghan families newly arrived in New Jersey.
Faridi instantly bonded with a woman named Sofia (who asked that her last name not be used), who had spent four months at refugee camps with her husband and four children.
Faridi took the children on outings and helped Sofia navigate the practical challenges of starting a new life in the United States. In gratitude, Sofia made her a beautiful handbag.
“She embroidered the entire front of the bag in this amazing traditional design, with mirrors and everything,” Faridi marveled. “It was so beautiful; it started the whole idea of the Bibi Collective.”
Faridi, together with her friend Stephanie Sheerin, also of Montclair, brainstormed how Sofia and other Afghan refugees could earn income through their unique skills. An advocate of fair-trade practices, Sheerin found ethically sourced fabrics for the women to work with and bought them in bulk. Then the pair contacted a local law firm, Spiro, Harrison and Nelson, to help the women set up their business. The attorneys not only provided pro bono counsel, but they set up individual LLCs for each of the seven textile artists, so they could manage their own earnings.
Thus, the Bibi Collective was born. Bibi means “a woman, full of life” in Afghan culture—the perfect name for their new venture.
Then came the matter of finding vendors. The Bibi Collective’s first pop-up event was at Le Souk, a Montclair café owned by a Syrian refugee. This was followed by Kimaya Kama in Maplewood, Mimi and Hill in Westfield, the Montclair Art Museum gift shop, and the General Store in Montclair.
Faridi and Sheerin also set up individual Etsy shops for the women and rented tables at craft fairs throughout the northern New Jersey area.
For Faridi, meeting Sofia and the other Afghan women has been immeasurably rewarding. “I love going to their houses and cuddling all the babies,” she says.
Setting up the Bibi Collective has also been a deeply meaningful experience, in a different way, for everyone involved.
“For these women, who aren’t even literate in their own language, being in business for themselves is an amazing opportunity,” Faridi says.
“They have some financial independence and can still take care of their children while learning English. This experience has been really powerful for them.”
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post New Venture Helps Female Afghan Refugees in NJ Earn a Living appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
All photos courtesy of the manufacturers
HEART TO HEART: Interlocking hearts embellish the red Ferragamo Gancini St. Valentine leather wallet; $595 at Bloomingdale’s.EAR CANDY: Get your glam on with double-sided, beaded heart earrings, available in red or pink; $42 at Teggy French in Bernardsville. Read more about Teggy French here.LIGHT MY FIRE: Conjure Cupid with a Bougie Parfumee scented candle in a dapper striped canister; $78 at Jonathan Adler stores and jonathanadler.com.RISE AND SHINE: The embroidered sunrise Ayo pillow by Justina Blakeney will brighten any space; $39.99 at jungalow.com.A ROSY ROW: Shine with a Rosecliff stackable ring in pink tourmaline and 14k gold; $495 at haverhill.com.BOOK IT: Design-loving bibliophiles will embrace William Morris’s Flowers, $19.95, and Casa Cabana, $85, available at Larger Cross in Oldwick. (Read more about Larger Cross here.)STREAK OF PINK: Free-sprited vegan kicks focus on comfort and style; $85 at awkwardsouls.com.HEAVEN SCENT: Sparkling Italian bergamot enlivens Valentino’s Born in Roma eau de parfum. 3.4 oz; $138 at Nordstrom.LOUNGE LOVE: These splurge-worthy silk PJs are classics; $420 at sohohome.com.SNUGGLE UP: The chateau parka in Italian stadium-cloth wool wows in pink; $385 at J.Crew.LONG STEMS: Toast to romance with pink Estelle champagne flutes; $205 for six at Anthropologie.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Treat Your Sweetheart (or Yourself!) appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
“I want people to feel good about what they’re buying and to feel good about what’s in their home,” says Curated Home & Living owner Danielle Zinn. Photo by John Bessler
When Danielle Zinn decided to open a home-goods store in Montclair after years of working in the design world, she wanted to model it on the kinds of concept shops one might find in Europe or Scandinavia.
“It’s always been a passion of mine to have a shop and put together a curated collection that represents a lifestyle for people,” says Zinn, who lives in Montclair with her family.
“Customers appreciate design and products that last and can be passed down to the generations in their families. And they like things that are made from natural materials.”
“Everything I have here has some kind of story about how it was made or the design,” Zinn says. Photo by John Bessler
Curated Home & Living, which has been open since May 2021, is a beautiful store full of lovely things. It features ceramics by Dina Sati/Nur Ceramics and Jessie Lazar; wooden bowls, boards and utensils by Daniel Gugnoni/Troy Brook Visions; and jewelry by Sarah Macfadden and Margaret Solow. The store also sells scents by Coqui Coqui and Trudon.
Zinn likes to mix modern design with mid-century modern, and new items with vintage products. They all have in common clean, simple forms and interesting textures.
“I try to live in a world of fewer but better. In my own home, I feel like less is more. It helps when people edit their things, and I try to do that in my shop,” says Zinn. “I also like to put things together that are meaningful to me and that will resonate with others.”
Zinn collaborates with designers and makers from around the world. Photo by John Bessler
Zinn studied interior design and worked for eight years as a product librarian for a large architectural firm, where she learned about how products are used to decorate interiors. She went on to work for Maharam, a textile business in New York, for 20 years. During her stint there, she frequently travelled, becoming passionate about where products were sourced and how they were made. The experience made her want to share her love for interiors and furnishings with her community, and to collaborate with designers and makers from around the world.
“I like to have something for everyone,” she says. “Everything I have here has some kind of story about how it was made or the design. I want people to feel good about what they’re buying and to feel good about what’s in their home.”
Curated Home & Living, 102 Walnut Street, Montclair, 646-574-3598.
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post Montclair Shop Owner Carefully Curates Home Goods: ‘Less Is More’ appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Valerie Braverman, owner of Brave Floral in Maplewood, says that houseplants can breathe life and bring a sense of nature into a space.
“A lot of people have plants that were in their homes for generations—they become part of the family. They just make you happy,” she says.
Here are a few of Braverman’s favorites.
FERNWOOD MIKADOThese snake plants are a low-maintenance option. Photo by Andy Foster
Sansevieria varieties are best sellers because of their sleek, modern look and perky fountain-like shape. These are compact, hybrid snake plants that have dark-green leaves with striking, light green, tiger-print striping. They don’t need to be watered a lot and are tolerant of different light levels, making this a super-easy choice for plant lovers of all levels, says Braverman.
FICUS TINEKEThese plants can last for generations—but they need bright light and consistent watering. Photo by Andy Foster
Also known as a rubber plant, this is a popular and easy-to-grow species. Its variageted, colorful leaves make it an interesting-looking plant. These are the types of plants that stay with families for generations. Braverman says one customer told her that her grandmother had passed along one that was over 35 years old. Centuries ago, these plants were used to make rubber products. These are great, low-maintenance houseplants for beginners looking for a splash of color, Braverman says. But they need bright light and consistent watering. Keep them away from cats and dogs—they are toxic to pets.
BLACK RAVEN ZZ PLANTThese varieties make ideal housewarming gifts, Braverman says. Photo by Andy Foster
This is one of the more unusual varieties of ZZ plants, aka Zamioculcas zamiifolia. It’s a tropical succulent that sprouts lime-green leaves, which then turn a deep purple-black as they mature. Braverman says her customers love these plants for their ease and versatility. They are low maintenance and hardy, and the leaves stay shiny, even without a lot of care. They make beautiful housewarming gifts, says Braverman, especially when you don’t know the lighting conditions of a new home. These plants are relatively slow growing.
FICUS LYRATA (AKA FIDDLE-LEAF FIG)These plants are high maintenance, but beautiful. Photo by Andy Foster
A beautiful plant, the fiddle-leaf fig is also one of the more fickle specimens because it has very specific watering and light requirements. Braverman says many customers inquire about this plant, but these large-leafed beauties don’t thrive easily because they don’t like change. She doesn’t recommend these for someone who can’t provide a lot of care, adding that, when moved to a new spot in someone’s home, it will frequently show signs of stress by dropping leaves.
Brave Floral, 87 Baker Street, Maplewood, 973-761-0026
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.
The post How to Find the Best Houseplant for Your Space appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The Morris County retailer is brimming with home goods, hostess gifts and more.
The post The Ginger Jar Offers Curated Collection of Classic Décor appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Embrace autumn with rich colors, clean lines and a marvelous mod aesthetic.
The post Fun Finds to Bring Into Your Home This Fall appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Cara Brown built a legacy of bespoke fashion by repurposing found objects.
The post How This Hopewell Township Designer Creates Instant Heirlooms appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Justin Bailey’s hand-hewn utilitarian goods don’t blend into the woodwork.
The post Rahway Woodworker Elevates Everyday Items appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Kim Kachougian oversees Saturday Night Live's film unit and creates floral arrangements for celebrity guests. She also runs a floral studio in Hoboken.
The post ‘SNL’ Set Decorator Is a Jersey Girl appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Terri Spruill left her stressful hospital job to focus on Honeycat Cosmetics. Almost a decade later, her inventive line is 50 designs strong.
The post A Second Career Creating One-of-a-Kind Bath and Body Products appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
School supplies, ranging from pencils to computers, will be tax-free for 10 days in New Jersey, starting Saturday, August 27.
The post 10-Day NJ Sales Tax Holiday Coming for School Supplies appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Embrace a laid-back summertime vibe via natural textures and pretty details.
The post Earthy Home Accents We’re Loving appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Lauren and Brooke Greenberg's Tie Dye LAB was born in their laundry-room utility sink during the pandemic.
The post These Sisters Launched a Virtual Tie-Dye Store From Their Cherry Hill Home appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Welcome guests by the pool or on the patio with these colorful items.
The post Hip Hostess Accessories Perfect for Summer appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The KIM CIG line of light-enhanced acrylic totes and clutches ensures that fashionistas will stand out in a crowd.
The post NJ Designer’s Illuminated Handbags Are Ultimate Conversation Starter appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Make a stylish splash at the Jersey Shore this summer with fashions fit for a day out on the water.
The post Fashions That’ll Rock the Boat at the Jersey Shore appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Olive Surf, the eco-friendly collection founded by beach lover Olivia Hartgers, is made entirely out of items like nylon fishing nets and plastic water bottles.
The post This NJ Native Designed an Artful Swimwear Line—Made From Recycled Ocean Waste appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The Snooki Shop and Jetty are among the new Shore stores this summer.
The post Jersey Shore Shopping: What’s New for Summer 2022 appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Celebrate the season with organic skincare and botanical scents.
The post Treat Yourself to These Fun Springtime Finds appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Incorporate this purplish-pink hue into your wardrobe as the weather warms.
The post Indulge in Orchid, Spring’s Sassiest Shade appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Bobbi Brown left her billion-dollar global brand in 2016. Her second act, Jones Road Beauty, has received a warm welcome in her longtime NJ hometown.
The post Makeup Mogul Bobbi Brown on Starting Over and the Magic of Montclair appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Formerly a food stylist and interior designer, Alice Minnich left Manhattan to focus on all things country living.
The post Oldwick Shop a Must-Visit for Home, Garden and Antiques appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
From jewelry to luxurious loungewear, these gifts are guaranteed to make her smile.
The post Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Special Finds She’ll Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Fuzzy Wuzzy Design features Christian Markovic's handcrafted artwork.
The post Deaf-Blind Artist Behind Card & Clothing Brand: ‘Always Be Yourself’ appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Elegant outerwear to protect you from the elements.
The post Stylish Ways to Stay Warm This Winter appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Expert advice for beautiful, livable spaces—indoors and out.
The post NJ Designers Share Top Home Trends for 2022 appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The best places and experiences to check off your list in 2022.
The post 52 Things You Must Do in New Jersey appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Surprise someone special (or yourself!) with editors’ top picks.
The post 12 Great Holiday Gifts We Love appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Celebrate local artists and indie boutiques this holiday season.
The post Shop Holiday Gifts Made in New Jersey appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Still flourishing, family-owned department stores offer an old-fashioned shopping experience.
The post The Staying Power of New Jersey’s Family-Owned Department Stores appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Cara Benevenia's luxe leather bags are made in Union City "by skilled people, not machines."
The post How a Jersey-Based Handbag Designer Honors Her Artisan Roots appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Here are 10 high-spirited bazaars to explore this season.
The post NJ’s Holiday Markets: Find Unique Gifts and More appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The creative process happens at the Macy’s Parade Studio in Moonachie, located in Bergen County.
The post Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Has a Secret NJ Element appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
A longtime aesthetician on the continued importance of sunscreen, the best foods for a fresh face, and the common product most people don't need.
The post How to Keep Skin Healthy as Weather Cools appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
HGTV's Carrie Locklyn on simple, inexpensive ways to refresh your living space.
The post 10 Expert Tips for Home Design: ‘Don’t Hide Bananas in the Corner’ appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Cape May native Carrie Locklyn helps people create stylish, functional homes that reflect their personalities.
The post HGTV Star Carrie Locklyn Goes Back to Her Roots at Jersey Shore appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Warm, welcoming lifestyle and home items to enjoy all season long.
The post 5 Stylish Ways to Treat Yourself This Fall appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Ormolu, the brainchild of Claudia Barr, offers a fanciful mix of old and new decorative finds.
The post An Elegant Spin on a Beachy-Chic Boutique appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Now, more than ever, these one-piece wonders are essential—perfect for working from home or wearing to a party.
The post 5 Versatile House Dresses for Summer appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Six fun yet functional picks for yard or patio spruce-ups.
The post Create an Outdoor Escape with These Avant-Garde Items appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Be prepared for your outdoor affairs with this functional gear.
The post 3 Stylish Summer Essentials appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The retailer's very first hotel pop-up, at the Reeds At Shelter Haven, is slated to run through Labor Day.
The post Anthropologie Sets Up Summer Shop in Stone Harbor appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Got a taste for nostalgia? Collectibles and curiosities await at these coastal merchants.
The post Your Guide to Antique Shops Down the Shore appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Exhibit A: The custom mosaic options available from Artistic Tile.
The post Floral Designs are Blossoming in Home Decor appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Entrepreneur Katie Angell, founder of Katie Ink, creates items that celebrate the joys of childhood.
The post A Former Kindergarten Teacher’s Artsy Enterprise appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.