By Angela Larkin, Brown Harris Stevens Agent
Watchung Booksellers
Watchung Booksellers is a larger-than-life independent bookstore in Montclair, New Jersey, owned by Margot Sage-EL. I have always loved reading books, and this community gem teems with love and spirit, thoughtfully nurturing the love of reading and connection for all ages! Not only are they all well-read and helpful, but they are also keenly tied to the local economy and community. Another wonderful thing about Watchung is that it’s not only kid-friendly—they’re pet-friendly too. I often bring our dog, Hachi, in while I browse after our daily walks; he will often stop by the door and peek in! They even have a wonderful kids’ bookstore a few doors down that is also used for events like storytime, as well as readings and book signings for adults!
Click here to visit their website
Village Vogue
Village Vogue is a women’s clothing boutique owned by Holly Felber. Holly’s classic and extensive sense of style and knowledge of her clients’ tastes makes shopping for everyday and especially special events easy and fun. For a non-shopper like me, she takes the guesswork out of putting together outfits. I can trust her to assemble some great pieces and often surprise me by encouraging me to try on things I wouldn’t ordinarily gravitate towards. Village Vogue is also incredibly involved in community development; they provide looks for local fashion show fundraisers and dress local celebrities and makers at the Montclair Film Festival.
Click here to visit their website
Nouvelle Boutique/One Savvy Design
Nouvelle Boutique, owned by Arlene Carrini, is the ultimate destination whenever I’m in need of a wardrobe refresh or a look for an event; it’s also right by our Brown Harris Stevens office! It offers the best of both worlds—a luxury designer and consignment boutique where new pieces and pre-loved designer items are added daily, and you practically have your own personal shopper! The shop not only exudes a great spirit but also offers a fun shopping experience as soon as you walk in the door and let them know what you’re looking for. They also have a lovely selection of gifts.
Click here to visit their website
Pink Bungalow
Pink Bungalow, owned by Patrice Sommerhalter, is a local gift and home good store. Kelly Larkin (no relation) is a Montclair High classmate of Angela's whom helps out Angela with many home products and gifts available at Pink Bungalow. From beautiful and affordable candles and serveware to town and zip code printed items perfect for new homeowners, to playful cocktail and entertaining napkins, to jewelry and beautiful and elegant notecards and stationery—there is something for everyone, and all pieces are complimentary wrapped up in their signature striped pink and brown paper!
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Cornerstone Montclair
Wendy Lacey, owner of Cornerstone Montclair, is a calm and bright leader in our community, championing connections and partnerships for building an inclusive community for people of all abilities through businesses, educators, therapists, and service providers. The Cornerstone building houses mission partners such as their retro-style shop, The General Store, the IMC Kids Gym, a speech therapy center, and other businesses such as coaches and educational consultants supporting neurodiverse educational learning and advancement. Wendy is a strong advocate for inclusivity in both community and educational settings for children with disabilities and is also President of the Upper Montclair Business Association.