Montclair Holiday Gift Guide for Shopping Local
Sarah Elizabeth
Think filled cafes and tons of foot traffic = Montclair on the weekends, and it honestly makes my heart happy as I know these same people, both locals and visitors, are also hitting the lovely local shops. As a small business owner, it means even more to me to support local small businesses, as if we dont shop local, we wont have the lovely and vibrant downtown we do…
As the holidays approach, ive put together a list of my personal favorite shops near our studio in downtown Montclair, where i’m lucky to call shop owners friends 💚 Hope this list inspires you to hit up our very own downtown, that just happens to have some of the very best shopping around - perfect for holiday gifting.
1. Quest Emporium: This shop is just 1 year old yet feels like its always been apart of Montclairs’ downtown, and fills a need with unique finds mixed with vintage items. I'm impartial to their beautiful jewelry from Italy, but honestly want it all - from vintage art hanging around the shop, to their handmade candles that smell amazing made in LA. The items Dio the gracious owner carries feel extra special, and really are sourced from around the globe as he has traveled to Japan and other countries bringing back bespoke items like incense, glass vases and other things not offered in the states.
2. Kate’s Skin Revisions: After my facials with Kate I received so many compliments on my glowing skin - not making this up…💚 Kate is not only talented and trained in many different skin and facial techniques, she is also the kindest person, with a warm inviting space at the top of Church Street. She also offers gift cards, cant think who wouldnt love one as a holiday gift…
3. Dolly Moo - Their products are part of my nightly routine and proudly line my nightstand, and its no wonder friends all say the same… There’s nothing quite like their body butter, so rich and indulgent, followed by their lavender spray you can use on skin and bedding - combined with their lavender body oil when skin feeling extra dry (during winter months for example). They also have candles, their signature bath balms, perfumes, and curiosities - AND they will happily ship items for you, so a one-stop-shop for many people on your list.
4.White Rabbit Black Heart - With everything from incense and unique hand-made cards and jewelry, to mobiles and dinnerware, you’re bound to find something out of the ordinary for someone on your list. Paul the owner is truly delightful, with a keen design eye, a decades long shop keeper who brings goods for the home, body and beyond from around the world to Montclair.
5. Eclectic Chic Boutique - My very favorite ring ($30) is from here made by a women owned NJ jeweler! This shop often open late for after dinner browsing, has got a little bit of everything from unique DIY craft kits, to handmade stuffed animals, clothings, soaps and candles. They also have classes, check them out on their website or social media!
6. Nail Fitness gift certificate - If you know me you know I only go to Nail Fitness on Bloomfield Avenue. Tina the long time owner and her team are so warm and welcoming, and it feels like home away from home. They are also known for the very best pedicure (think long foot and leg massage) around. I think anyone, man, woman or child (think mom and kid spa day) would appreciate a gift certificate from this lovely locally owned nail salon.
7. Montclair Book Center - You may have seen it featured in movies, but hopefully you have also been in, and if not, now is your chance. For new or vintage books, they have you covered in this cozy shop steps off Bloomfield Avenue. I’ve found dozens of coffee table books there, kids books, new fiction, decorative writing journals, and even an almost complete series of Shakespeare books published in the 1800s! Another shop with something for everyone.
8. Velvet Lush: A fashion forward women’s clothing boutique located on North Willow St (think around the corner from Rays Luncheonette), and just a few blocks from the main downtown, in another favorite shopping area. It was previously located around the corner for years, briefly left town, before moving to their new location, and carries everything from soft winter sweaters, comfy day to night dresses, vegan leather pants, and a ton of great jewelry. I adore the owner and so glad they're back!
9. Last Minute Market: A new gourmet market in town everyone loves! Also located on Walnut Street, my Saturday circuit consists of the farmers market, then hitting their store a few doors down where my kid and i always find goodies to try. For gifting, who doesn't love a basket of healthy snacks and goodies, perfect for colleagues and neighbors. Their delicious, carefully created snacks and meal options are varied and always seem to have something new, many of them organic and low sugar, where there’s really something for everyone.