The holiday shopping season officially begins the day after Thanksgiving. Before you get overwhelmed, we’re checking one item off your holiday to-do list — where to support local small businesses this holiday season. From your kids to your coworkers, with so many unique stores in the Essex County area, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. And yes, we’ve included some online stores, too. Read on for a list of Essex County + North Jersey businesses to visit when looking for that perfect holiday gift.
Gifts for Mom
The Bibi Collective | Online + In Various Storefronts
The Bibi Collective is made up of women who fled Afghanistan and settled their families in New Jersey. Now, these highly skilled women have started their own businesses, creating stunning items including hand-embroidered clothing, tote bags, crochet, ornaments, and accessories. Visit their site for how to buy + support.
Read More: North Jersey Holiday Pop-up Markets + Events | 2022
Howell I 599 Valley Road, Montclair
(Photo Credit: Howell’s website)
Moms with a quirky sense of humor + who like to entertain guests will love the whimsical serving board with two spiffy-looking cats.
Hand and Stone I 648 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
The holidays are filled with family, fun, and stress. Give mom the gift of pampering with a gift card that she can use for services like their signature hot stone massage.
Parcel I 608 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
If mom likes unusual gifts with a vintage feel, this store fits the bill. This set of porcelain pouring cups can be used as decor or to hold tiny treasures such as tea lights.
Gifts for Dad
Brownell Company I 49 Halsey Street, Newark
Browse a selection of hand-crafted, customized garments that dad will love, including these made-to-order pistachio patchwork nylon pants.
Integrative Skin Center I 33 Plymouth Street Suite 102, Montclair
Men can use a bit of pampering too. Treat dad to a men’s facial tailored to his skin’s needs.
Merit Fine Wine and Liquor I 599 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
(Photo Credit: Merit Fine Wine and Liquor’s Facebook)
This shop is perfect for grabbing a bottle of fine wine, craft beer, or high-end whiskies, such as Makers Mark Bourbon.
Gifts for a Partner
Bangz Salon and Wellness Spa I 23 S Fullerton Avenue, Montclair
If you want to spend quality time with your partner after the bustle of the holidays, treat both of you to a Golden Ritual for Two, which includes a salt scrub, lotion application, and massage.
Johari I 76 Church Street, Montclair
If your significant other likes the finer things in life, this store has a selection of beautiful sleepwear, including this limited edition Empreinte #2386 Melody Wild Camisole.
Tahara Jewelry by Michael Taher I 628 Valley Road, Montclair
This family-owned jeweler receives high marks for its friendly service and assortment of sparkly pieces, such as this Vintage Omega 796.
Gifts for a Friend
Culture Couture I 53 Church Street, Montclair
If your friend wants to be stylish and socially conscious, this store offers fair trade, locally made, and sustainably produced merchandise. Pick up this hand-drawn batik scarf in magenta.
Dolly Moo I 217 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair
(Photo Credit: @dollymoobody)
Give a friend the gift of tranquility with the Lavender Calming Collection Gift Box. Like all of the products in the store, it is handmade in small-batches.
The Green Room | 20 Church Street, Montclair
This local CBD shop has it all — from face masks and gummies to CBD-infused dog treats (yes, those are a real thing). Whether your friend is just starting out or is a certified CBD connoisseur, there are plenty of gift options to choose from.
Java Love I Online
If you know someone who can’t start the day without a cup of joe, this coffee subscription can be customized just for them. You can pick the blends or let the store do the personalizing.
Jerry’s Antiques + Estate Sales | 229 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair
Jerry’s is your quintessential antique shop, full of valuable furniture, glass, china, art, silver, pottery, jewelry, and more. This spot is perfect for a one-of-a-kind piece or storied accessory the history buff in your life will love.
Gifts for a Child
Just Kidding Around I 507 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
This one-stop shop for creative toys has something for children of all ages. This Young Artist Learn to Watercolor has everything they need to create original works of art.
Maison Rainbow | Online
(Photo Credit: Maison Rainbow’s website)
Inspired by her own daughter’s love of rainbows, local creator Samantha Hahn launched this print shop to celebrate the power of color. The shop has prints in various sizes — framed or unframed — and can include custom-lettered names for a truly personalized gift.
Over the Moon I 619 Valley Road, Montclair
This is your stop if you are looking for a very special gift for a child in your life. Little girls will love this Baby Sara Sweater Dress with Heart Detail.
Sparkhouse Toys I 9 Village Plaza, South Orange
Kids can put their creativity to work with the Build a Truck fire and rescue kit. Or pick up a gift card and let them select something from the collection of puzzles, games, and arts and crafts.
Gifts for a Teen
East Side Mags I 491 Bloomfield Avenue Suite 102, Montclair
Have a comic book enthusiast on your list? This store offers a wide assortment of comics, graphic novels, games, and more. New releases come out every Wednesday so check out their website to see what is in stock.
Giftbar I 465 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
Stop by this curated gift shop where you can find gifts that will keep teens occupied during the cold winter months. With this tie-dye kit, they can turn white t-shirts into colorful creations.
Rocky’s Crystals and Minerals I Multiple locations
Teenagers flock to this popular store to browse the large selection of crystals, minerals, and gemstone Jewelry. The Rose Quartz Love & Compassion Bracelet provides peaceful energy that can teach them compassion for themselves and others.
Gifts for a Coworker
Sicilia Mia Imports I 4 S Fullerton Avenue, Montclair
World travelers will love the artisanal and handcrafted products from Sicily. These handpainted bottles are filled with extra virgin olive oil.
See More: Where to Bring Visitors for the Holidays in the Hudson County Area
[Words] Bookstore I 179 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood
Bibliophiles will love a gift card to this local, independent, award-winning bookstore that has created a welcoming space for patrons and employees with autism.
Vesta Chocolate I 598 Valley Road Ste.2, Upper Montclair
(Photo Credit: @vestachocolate)
Delight candy lovers with a box of small-batch organic chocolate made in-house. Even better, they have vegan chocolate too.
