And just like that, 2024 comes to a close. This year was filled with an influx of exciting new businesses in the area, and innovative entrepreneurs and creatives shining a light on the community. To mark the end of an eventful year and to welcome the new one, The Montclair Girl is highlighting 25 local women doing great things to keep an eye on in 2025. Read on for a list of 25 women in Montclair to watch in 2025.

Dr. Wenimo Okoya | Founder of Healing Schools Project

Photo Credit: Marta Skovro

Dr. Wenimo Okoya is an educator, public health professional, and founder of Healing Schools Project, which implements anti-racist, healing-centered practices and services for educators. Dr. Okoya founded the organization in 2021 during her fellowship at Blue Ridge Labs at the Robin Hood Foundation. Since then, she has partnered with schools across New York and New Jersey. Dr. Okoya has also held leadership roles at institutions like the Children’s Health Fund, The Jed Foundation, and NYU Metro Center.

Aside from doing work that betters her community, Dr. Okoya says her biggest accomplishment in 2024 was successfully navigating her first year as a working mother. “No one talks about just how hard it is to mother and build a career, especially one focused on mission-driven work,” she told the MG team. In 2025, she looks forward to continuing to build a life that her daughter will one day admire. Wenimo also shared that she and her team at the Healing Schools Project plan for this next year to be one for the books. The organization intends to expand its work to reach educators across the Northeast.

Women Dr. Okoya admires: Rebecca, Ilene, and Kristen from Zura Blooms Yoga Studio.

Dr. Okoya’s local favorites: Zura Blooms Yoga Studio, Harper’s Cafe, Eagle Rock Cafe.

Learn more about Dr. Okoya’s work at Healing Schools Project here.

Read More: A List of Women-Owned Restaurants in Montclair + Bloomfield

Elly Otharsson | Local Artist

Photo Credit: Elly Otharsson

Elly Otharsson, who previously worked in media, publishing, and tech with big names like The Economist, Condé Nast, Wochit, and Idomoo, has had quite a career. In 2022, Elly traded in a tech job for a life filled with art and exploration. After settling in the Bloomfield area, she created her first hand-drawn map of Walnut Street in Montclair and her artistic journey took off. Since that first map, Elly has gone on to design town postcards, stickers, walk and wander maps, museum and landmark guides, and more. She has also worked with some of Montclair’s most coveted businesses like Eagle Rock Cafe, The Corner, Ray’s Luncheonette, Egan + Sons, The George, and Montclair Brewery. Elly has also traveled abroad to create maps of places like London, England.

This past year, Elly and her husband took a year-long trip around the country, nurturing that passion for travel. They visited various cities like Raleigh, North Carolina, Palm Springs, California, Denver, Colorado, and Newport, Rhode Island. Elly told The Montclair Girl that 2024 has been a year of growth. “I’m proud of the challenges I’ve overcome, both big and small, to continue building this new path,” Elly said. “Every step, from refining my skills to expanding my creative projects, has brought me closer to where I am today.” In 2025, Elly plans to create a 12-month calendar featuring all the travel destinations she’s been to so far. She’s also excited to work on a new printed community map for a Montclair area.

Women Elly admires: Jen Caramma at Salt Aire Collective, Elly Meeks, Director of the Judy Weston Garden, Kay Richards from One Love Cultured Kids.

Elly’s local favorites: Egan + Sons, Walnut Street Bagels, Jayce Baudry, La Rocca Osteria

Learn more about Elly’s art here.

Kelli Buschinski + Larell Scardelli | Owners of Jersey Girl Thrift

Photo Credit: Larell Scardelli + Kelli Buschinski

From students to co-workers to business partners, Kelli Buschinski and Larell Scardelli took their shared love of fashion and sustainability and turned it into a passion project with the launch of Jersey Girl Thrift (JGT), a second-hand clothing network based in New Jersey. This past October, Kelli and Larell hosted a clothing swap in Montclair where participants brought a bag of unwanted clothing and accessories to exchange them for a whole new set of second-hand items. Since this event, Kelli and Larell have garnered attention, including from a Montclair State University student doing a project on sustainable clothing, and a local science teacher looking to incorporate a clothing swap into her school’s environmental club.

In 2025, Kelli and Larell hope to bring the JGT experience to various towns in New Jersey. “We want to host larger swaps all over the state more frequently,” they told The Montclair Girl. The two are excited for their brand to take off and eventually establish thrifting networks across the country, with brands like Nashville Girl Thrift, San Diego Girl Thrift, and Chicago Girl Thrift. The next clothing swap is scheduled for February 16th.

Women Kelli + Larell admire: Jodie Dawson + Kristine Petrik at Java Love Coffee, Rachel Garcia, owner of Dry Goods Refillery, Vanessa Branson from Ria x Gallery, Carley Storm of Headshot + Brand Bar, and Carol at Bringing Tidy Home.

Kelli + Larell’s local favorites: The Wellmont Theater, Tino’s Artisan Pizza, Montclair Farmer’s Market, Rocky’s Crystal and Minerals.

Learn more about Kelli, Larell, and Jersey Girl Thrift here.

Brandi Kaye | Founder of Explorers Playgroup

Photo Credit: Brandi Kaye

Brandi Kaye (a.k.a Miss Bee) is a children’s educator, entertainer, and musical expert, and the founder of the Explorers Playgroup, an early childhood music and movement enrichment program. In this program, students sing, dance, play instruments, and build emotional confidence and independence. In addition to establishing Explorers Playgroup, Brandi works with local schools, childcare providers, and parents to lead workshops that focus on the best practices for early childhood education and development.

Brandi told The Montclair Girl that her biggest accomplishment this year was building a welcoming community. “They give so much love, support, and connection,” Brandi said. In 2025, she looks forward to growing that community, providing more classes and events, and continuing to improve access and quality in early childhood education.

A Woman Brandi admires: Lynn Kulik, Director of Union Cong Nursery School.

Learn more about Brandi’s work at Explorers Playgroup here.

Karissa Teixeira + Martha Peralta | Founders of La Bella Princess Cafe

Photo Credit: NBC News

Karissa Teixeira and Martha Peralta, the ultimate mother-daughter duo, own the enchanting La Bella Princess Cafe, a princess-themed cafe located at 553 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona. In 2003, Martha ran Bella Princess, a mobile company that provided entertainment for children’s parties. After seven years, Martha moved her business into a permanent location. When the pandemic hit, she had to sell the space. that’s when her daughter Karissa came into the mix. With her background as a social media influencer and Martha’s years of experience in the entertainment business, the two came up with the idea for La Bella Princess Cafe.

With its whimsical ambiance and playful menu, La Bella Princess Cafe has caught the attention of people from all over Northern New Jersey and outlets like NBC News, which featured the space in a special segment. Karissa and Martha shared with The Montclair Girl that there are big things in store for 2025. The cafe will introduce more ticketed events, including adults-only evenings at least once a month. This next year will also feature extended rental hours and more elaborate packages. The cafe will also transition to a reservations-only model.

Women Karissa + Martha admire: Kara from Kara Kakes, Maritza Walton, owner of Casa De Flora Bar.

Karissa + Martha’s local favorites: Paper Plane Coffee Co., Casa De Flora Bar, Anthony’s Cheesecake.

Learn more about Karissa’s + Martha’s work at La Bella Princess Cafe here.

Tara Ford | Owner of Catfé Montclair

Photo Credit: Liza Andrews

Tara Ford owns Catfé Montclair, a cat cafe located at 356 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. At Catfé Montclair, guests can play with furry friends — and even adopt them — while sipping coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Tara’s vision for Catfé Montclair was to create a space “where both cats and humans can relax and heal,” she told The Montclair Girl. The cafe hosts all kinds of healing events, such as yoga classes with cats, sound baths with cats, and more. In addition to being the founder of Catfé Montclair, Tara is a women’s health practitioner specializing in menopause management and sexual health. Patients can visit Tara at Bona Dea Gynecology at 275-277 Forest Avenue, Suite 125, Paramus.

Tara’s biggest accomplishments this year were opening Catfé Montclair in January and starting her new role at Bone Dea Gynecology. “What truly fills me with pride is the vibrant Catfé community we’ve created, made possible by our dedicated volunteers and staff who go above and beyond to provide exceptional care for the cats,” Tara said. Because the community at the cafe has been growing since its establishment, Tara plans to extend the cafe’s hours and stay open for more days in 2025. In addition, Tara will introduce new and exciting events, like women’s health lectures and more yoga with cats days, this coming year.

A Woman Tara admires: Donna Moussa from Homeless Tails Cat Rescue.

Learn more about Tara’s work at Catfé Montclair here and Bona Dea Gynecology here.

Anne Mernin | Executive Director at Toni’s Kitchen

Photo Credit: Anne Mernin

Anne Mernin is the Executive Director at Toni’s Kitchen, the food ministry of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Located at 73 S Fullerton Avenue in Montclair, Toni’s Kitchen provides programs that ensure Montclair locals have access to healthy food. Anne is proud to say that as of this writing, the ministry has provided 2.3 million meals to the local community. In 2025, she looks forward to continuing to work towards ending food insecurity in the Essex County area. Anne also told The Montclair Girl to stay tuned this coming year, as some fun projects are planned.

On a more personal note, Anne, who is an explorer at heart, shared that in 2024, she took her first solo backpacking trip along the Appalachian Trail. “It poured rain much of the time but I loved every moment,” she told the MG team. Anne has also started a new writing project that she looks forward to continuing in the new year.

Women Anne admires: Elly Meeks, Director of the Judy Weston Garden, Susan Andersen, Jessica Troupe, owner of Sankofa Cafe.

Anne’s local favorites: The Van Vleck Gardens, Montclair Art Museum, Sankofa Cafe, Tierney’s Tavern, Paper Plane Coffee Co.

Learn more about Anne’s work at Toni’s Kitchen here.

Tanya Poteat | Executive Director of the Montclair Child Development Center, Inc

Photo Credit: Tanya Poteat

Tanya Poteat is the President of the Montclair Fund for Women, the Vice Chair of the Montclair Democratic County Committee, a member of the Montclair Art Museum’s African American Cultural Committee, and the Executive Director of the Montclair Child Development Center, Inc. (MCDC).

While Tanya’s career encompasses work with numerous organizations, she takes the greatest pride in her contributions to the MCDC, a private nonprofit that provides comprehensive, inclusive Early Childhood Education to approximately 500 children in the area. As the Chief Executive Officer, Tanya manages the MCDC’s Montclair, Glen Ridge, and Orange locations, and oversees and staff of 130 people. With the MCDC, “our mission is to create successful encounters that embrace the child, empower the family, and strengthen the community,” Tanya told The Montclair Girl. In 2025, Tanya hopes to improve the MDCD’s aging facilities and expand its district and other partnerships.

Women Tanya admires: Audrey Fletcher Lee, one of the founders of Montclair Child Development Center + former 4th Ward Councilwoman; Lydia Davis Barrett, former Executive Director of Montclair YWCA + Montclair Fund for Women; and Sharon Burton Turner, philanthropist + art enthusiast.

Tanya’s local favorites: Ray’s Luncheonette, Grove Deli, Fish Delish, Just Jake’s, Sayola, Montclair Art Museum, Montclair Jazz Festival, Montclair African American Parade and Festival.

Learn more about Tanya’s work at Montclair Child Development Center, Inc. here.

Sophia Bermeo | Owner of Sugar Tree Cafe

Photo Credit: Sophia Bermeo

Sophia Bermeo was born and raised in Las Vegas Nevada but moved to the Northern New Jersey area 12 years ago. In 2020, she and her husband, Jack Bermeo, felt driven to open a small coffee shop in Nutley. They wanted to create a space that was warm, inviting, and felt like “a home away from home,” Sophia told The Montclair Girl. That’s when Sugar Tree Cafe, an eatery located at 358 Passaic Avenue, Nutley, was born. The Bermeo’s spot features a menu of coffees, teas, pastries, wings, empanadas, milkshakes, and more.

Sophia shared that this past year, she and Jack have “worked hard to create a space that truly resonates with [their] vision.” “Seeing it thrive has been incredibly rewarding,” Sophia said. In 2025, Sugar Tree Cafe will expand to Livingston at 107 East Mount Pleasant Avenue. “This marks a significant step for our business, and we’re thrilled to bring our vision of a ‘home away from home’ to a new community,” Sophia shared.

A Woman Sophia admires: Sophia’s friend, Becky Mateus, who is a working mom, saleswoman, and the “definition of a boss babe.”

Sophia’s local favorites: Emilio’s, Villardo’s Deli, Queen Margherita.

Learn more about Sophia and Sugar Tree Cafe here.

Maritza Walton | Owner of Casa De Flora Bar

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by RITZ (@maritzawalton)

 

At Casa De Flora Bar, a luxury cafe and flower shop located at 75 Washington Street in Bloomfield, guests can put together bouquets of florals while sipping on a fun beverage or eating one of the cafe’s signature cronuts. Behind this innovative business is Maritza Walton, who “felt called to create a space where women could walk through the doors, feel the energy shift, and be reminded of how powerful, creative, and inspired they truly are,” per an Instagram post. In addition to being the creative mind behind Casa De Flora Bar, Maritza is the owner and lead designer of the Ritz-Walton Wedding Collection, an award-winning floral design firm specializing in wedding florals and event decor.

Maritza’s greatest accomplishment this year has been putting together a holiday selfie studio in less than four weeks. “This year has taught me that no matter the challenges, amazing things are possible when you refuse to give up and pour your all into what you believe in,” Maritza told The Montclair Girl. In 2025, Maritza looks forward to launching multiple programs and business ventures, including Savor Culinary Kitchen and Event Studio, a chef residency program for aspiring chefs, and Nothing But Silks, a business that will provide premium silk floral designs for weddings and events. In addition, she hopes to grow the cafe. “I envision Casa De Flora as not just a business, but a cornerstone of Bloomfield’s creative and social culture,” Maritza said.

A woman Maritza admires: Melvina Boggs, owner of Ultimate Vision Hair Studio.

Maritza’s local favorites: Seven Doors Down, Sweet T’s, Lena Y, Carbon, Bloomfield Steak House.

Learn more about Maritza’s business here.

Elise Pereira | Founder of Montclair Flea

Photo Credit: Elise Pereira

Elise Pereira, founder of Montclair Flea, moved from New York City to Montclair five years ago. Elise told MG that one thing she immediately loved about the community was how many “badass women entrepreneurs” there were. Her passion for supporting the small business community led to the creation of Montclair Flea. In 2024, Elise returned to a full-time job, meaning she would have less time to run the Flea, so she signed the business over to the team behind the newly renovated Lackawanna Plaza. “It’s been a bittersweet moment for me, to let go of something I poured my heart into, but I’m so grateful to see it live on in a new way and create even more opportunities for small business owners to connect with our community,” she said.

Elise shared that she is proud of surrounding herself with supportive women this year. “If 2024 taught me anything, it’s that building anything in life takes a strong network of support,” she said. “Montclair is filled with incredible women at every turn who are willing to say ‘hell yes’ to you if you’re brave enough to share your dreams with them.” Elise doesn’t know where 2025 will take her, but she does know that she wants to continue building an encouraging community and following her interests. At the moment, that includes working with the senior community in Montclair.

A woman Elise admires: Liz Samuel, founder of Montclair Story Salon.

Elise’s local favorites: Cafe Giotto, Tierney’s Tavern, Egan + Sons, Le French Dad, Red Eye Cafe, and Lit Cafe.

Learn more about Elise and Montclair Flea here.

Chainika Sachdeva | Founder of Lit Cafe + Lit Lab Co.

Photo Credit: Chainika Sachdeva

After solely selling her products online, Chainika Sachdeva opened Lit Cafe, a specialty coffee shop, at 25 Church Street in Montclair. At this permanent location, visitors can find products from Lit Lab, a luxury candle brand, also owned by Chainika. The candle brand has been featured by Gwyneth Paltrow’s GOOP, Allure, and MyDomaine. “Both ventures reflect my passion for creating sensory-driven experiences that inspire connection, comfort, and creativity,” Chainika told MG.

Chainika’s greatest achievement this year was opening her cafe. “It’s been a long-held dream to create a space where people can gather, enjoy exceptional coffee, and feel completely at home,” she said. For the new year, Chainika has set a goal to continue growing Lit Cafe and officially establish the spot as a Montclair staple. She also plans to expand her fragrance line in 2025.

Learn more about Chainika’s cafe here.

 

Denise Ford Sawadogo | Co-Owner of Montclair Brewery

In 2018, Montclair Brewery, owned by Denise Ford Sawadogo and her husband Leopold ‘Leo’ Sawadogo, became the first Black-owned brewery in New Jersey. Since its establishment, the business has become a community favorite amongst locals. Aside from being co-owner, Denise is the brewery’s Chief Brand + Administrative Officer, meaning she oversees marketing, community partnerships, events, sales, and distribution.

The owners recently announced the brewery’s expansion to East Orange, which will open in the new year. The East Orange location will have a tasting room and outdoor seating. This milestone is Denise’s greatest accomplishment for 2024. “I’m usually not a huge risk taker so [I’m] extra proud that I had the confidence to take on this risk,” she said. For 2025, Denise is planning to increase Montclair Brewery’s distribution footprint and sales and expand the team at the sister location.

Women Denise admires: Kristen Zacharres from Eclectic Chic; Adenah Bayoh, owner of Cornbread Soul.

Denise’s local favorites: Sankofa Cafe, Bleu Coffee, Paper Plane Coffee Co., Red Eye Cafe, Le Salbuen, The Corner, Panzano Pizzeria, Brick + Dough, and Ray’s Luncheonette.

Learn more about Denise and Montclair Brewery here.

Darya Mishina | Co-Owner of Acorn General Store

Photo Credit: Caitlyn Schneider

Along with her partner Jacob Baccus, Darya Mishina is the co-owner of Acorn General Store, located at 41 Church Street. This eco-friendly shop, which sells sustainably sourced clothing, accessories, home goods, and everyday products, first opened its doors in July 2025 and quickly became a community favorite. Darya, originally from Bloomfield, once worked in the corporate fashion world. “Fashion has always been a huge part of who I am,” Darya told MG. “To me, it’s like art and a way to really express myself.” In 2025, Darya looks forward to continuing to grow Acorn General Store and making the store a “voice for positive change in the community.”

A woman Darya admires: Nancy Laboz, owner of Parcel.

Darya’s local favorites: Le French Dad, Paper Plane Coffee Co., Dutch’s Sandwich Shop, The Corner, Parcel, Iris, Monty, Montclair Book Center, and Grayford’s.

Learn more about Darya’s work at the Acorn General Store here.

Daysi DeDios | Owner of Houss Freya Apothecary

Photo Credit: Daysi DeDios

Daysi DeDios is a first-generation Mexican-American, mother, wife, and since 2017, the owner of Montclair’s Houss Freya Apothecary. The apothecary provides holistic healing services and sells handcrafted items like candles, stones, balms, oils, and all things metaphysical. This past summer, Daysi relocated Houss Freya from 547 Valley Road to the old church on Glenridge Avenue. The church was built in 1896 but hadn’t been in use for 20 years until Daysi took over. She told The Montclair Girl that she’s glad to be a part of the grand restoration. “I am honored and proud to bring new life to such a beautiful historic building in the community,” she said.

In 2025, Daysi plans for more handmade offerings, events, and classes for the Montclair community. She is also excited to “continue to build the spiritual and wellness community for people of all walks of life seeking a safe and inclusive space.”

A woman Daysi admires: Jackie Apicella, BID Marketing Director + Director of Experience Montclair.

Daysi’s local favorites: Stockedville, The Eclectic Chic Boutique, Parcel, The NOW Massage, Ah ‘Pizz.

Learn more about Daysi and Houss Freya Apothecary here.

Mamie Jenneh Bayoh | Co-Owner + Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at Vital IV Infusions

Vital IV Infusions, a wellness center providing IV therapy and injectables, opened its second location at 49 Claremont Avenue in Montclair this past summer. Behind this new spot is Mamie Jenneh Bayoh, co-owner and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. With a previous career in the medical field, she specializes in extensive anesthesia, critical care, and infusion therapy. Mamie also has a passion for weight management, mental health, and holistic wellness.

At Vital IV Infusions, which mainly uses IV Ketamine therapy for mental health care, there are all sorts of treatments available, including NAD+ therapy, semaglutide and tirzepatide, and IV vitamin therapy.

Learn more about Mamie and Vital IV Infusions here.

Deb Looney | CEO + Founder of Loopwell

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Deb Looney-Loopwell (@deb.looney)

 

Deb Looney started Loopwell, a wellness center dedicated to holistic self-care, after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. At Loopwell, located at 80 Maple Avenue, Montclair, customers can attend classes, workshops, educational events, and more – all focused on health and wellness.

Deb has also been recognized by various publications and outlets, such as AdAge, Adweek, Art Direction, Archive, Art Director’s Club, DA&D, and U.S. Ad Review. According to Loopwell’s website, Deb’s background and career in the wellness industry “has helped her not only create the Loopwell concept but meticulously design a one-of-a-kind, sustainable space.” In addition to her business’s success, Deb has volunteered at various organizations in Montclair + beyond.

Learn more about Deb’s work at Loopwell here.

Tracey “Africa” Norman | LGBTQ+ Icon + Model

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Tracey Norman (@tracey_africa_norman)

 

Tracey Norman is best known as the first black trans model in the 1970’s. Her face has been featured in numerous publications since the beginning of her career, including Vogue, where she was the first black woman to be on the cover. In 1980, Tracey was wrongfully outed, bringing her career to an abrupt standstill. Eventually, she was asked to be on the cover of a Clairol hair dye box, and her profession in the modeling industry took off once again. Tracey has become a beacon for trans creatives everywhere, with LGBTQ+ icons like Laverne Cox drawing inspiration from her story.

A recent exhibit at The Newark Museum of Art, located at 49 Washington Street, highlighted the untold story of the fashion industry in Newark. The Story of Newark Fashion: Atelier to Runway sheds light on 11 different designers in the area whose work has made Newark’s contemporary fashion what it is today. The inspiration for this exhibit came from the work of Tracey, who also served as Curational Advisor for the exhibit.

Learn more about Tracey’s recent endeavors here.

Stefanie Murray | Director of the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University

Photo Credit: Montclair State University

Stefanie Murray, a Michigan native, is the Director of the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University. Before coming to Montclair State, she worked as a local journalist with publications like The Ann Arbor News and Detroit Free Press. Stefanie also served as the Vice President and Executive Editor of The Tennessean in Nashville. Her field specializations lie in collaborative journalism, local journalism, and news ecosystems.

Learn more about Stefanie and her work at Montclair State University here.

Bobbi Brown | Owner of The George + Jones Road Beauty + Co-Creator of The George x Williams Sonoma

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Bobbi Brown Makeup Artist (@justbobbidotcom)

 

Bobbi Brown, who owns the brand Jones Road Beauty, is the creator behind The George, a renovated hotel in the heart of Montclair, and the home decor collection that launched this year, The George x Williams Sonoma. This collection features curtains, pillows, bedding, rugs, frames, and more, and is inspired by the furnishings of her hotel.

The George, which was given the historic landmark status in 2008, was purchased by Bobbi and her husband Steven Plofker in 2012. This project was the couple’s first shared creation. Given Bobbi’s work within the past few years, Montclarians can anticipate more milestones from her in 2025.

Learn more about Bobbi Brown and her recent creative projects on her Instagram.

Melissa Walker | Founder of Jazz House Kids

Photo Credit: Jazz House Kids

Melissa Walker is the founder of Jazz House Kids, a nonprofit organization that provides jazz-based education, apprenticeship, and mentoring for children. This institution, located at 347 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, was founded twenty years ago and has received more than 125 awards. Jazz House Kids also runs the annual Montclair Jazz Festival, a community favorite amongst all locals.

This year, Melissa received the “Inspiration through the Arts Award,” given to women doing amazing things in their community, at the Extraordinary Women Awards, hosted by the 92nd Street Y. According to New Jersey Stage, the 92nd Street Y created an annual scholarship for student jazz vocalists in Melissa’s name. If her recent accolades are any clue, the Montclair community can expect great things from Melissa in the new year.

Learn more about Melissa’s work at Jazz House Kids here.

Marissa Herrmann | Owner of Move House Fit

Marissa Herrman, a Cedar Grove native and Montclair State University alumna, always knew she’d one day return to the Montclair area. With a background in competitive dance and fitness, Marissa realized that goal in October when she opened Move House Fit at 260 Bellevue Avenue. She told MG that her business is an inclusive, community-driven fitness studio that aims to “[build] [clients’] confidence while inspiring and challenging the mind and body.”

Located next to The Bellevue Theatre, Move House Fit provides two low-impact, high-energy 50-minute classes. Sculpt combines barre, pilates, and dance, and Barre targets the muscles. Marissa’s fitness studio also provides on-demand classes, from seven to 27 minutes long, so customers can work out at home.

Learn more about Marissa’s and Move House Fit on Instagram.

Zuirrae McKinney | Owner of She Imagined Sweets

Zuirrae McKinney, a Bloomfield resident and lifelong baker, is the culinary mastermind behind She Imagined Sweets, located at 147 Valley Road. Her favorite memories as a child come from the holidays spent with her family. “I remember my aunt always bringing a big NY-style cheesecake to our home for holidays,” she told The Montclair Girl. “I was always searching for the crust which was my favorite part.”

The inspiration for her bakery came from a journal Zuirrae kept as a child, where she documented her love for cheesecake and the idea for her future business: beautifully packaged mini cheesecakes with an amazing crust. Zuirrae’s bakery specializes in bite-sized cheesecakes in flavors like cookies + cream, NY-style strawberry, blueberry, candy bar, and more. She Imagined Sweets also sells chocolates, jarred cobblers, brownies, Tea Forte Teas, and lemonade.

Learn more about Zuirrae’s desserts here.

Natalie Haddad | Owner of Monty + Mister

Natalie Haddad, a Montclair resident for nine years, has worked with designers like Libertine, Tracy Feith, Trina Turk, and Jonathan Adler. About five years ago, Natalie resigned from her fashion job in New York City to open Monty, a women’s clothing store at 12 North Willow Street. The inspiration behind her business’s name came from a nickname her friends in NYC began to call her after she announced her move to Montclair.

After seeing a need for menswear, especially from customers seeking specific kinds of men’s items, Natalie opened Mister this winter. Mister is a boutique dedicated to men’s clothing and accessories and is located in the same building as Monty.

Learn more about Natalie’s businesses here and here.

See More: 25 Hoboken + Jersey City Women to Watch in 2025

Susan Strachan | Owner of The Grove Grill

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by The Grove Grill NJ (@thegrovegrillnj)

 

Susan Strachan, the owner of The Grove Grill, located at 143 Grove Street in Bloomfield, has been a resident of the Essex County area for 22 years. Inspired by her love of food and the opportunity to feed the community, Susan opened her Jamaican restaurant in the fall of 2023. The menu at The Grove Grill consists of community favorites like oxtail cheesesteak, oxtail burgers, mac and cheese, empanadas, tacos, loaded fries, and Rasta pasta.

Susan told The Montclair Girl about her plans to expand the restaurant’s menu to include vegan and vegetarian dishes that use ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, black beans, okra, coconut milk, and curry. Customers can look forward to these kinds of additions in 2025.

Learn more about Susan’s restaurant here.