It’s more important than ever to shop local this year. The pandemic has hit everyone hard and our local shops are no exception. Many people are taking the predictable route of ordering online at the big retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart for their holiday shopping this season. You can help keep our local shops up and running through the pandemic by shopping local this holiday season!
Did you know small businesses in New Jersey are responsible for employing 49.8% of the workforce (2019 statistic from SBA.gov) with 34% of that coming from the retail trade?

I can’t help but share a few of MY favorite stores here at the Jersey shore. They all offer curbside pickup for your safety and convenience!

• Barehands Artisans [Belmar] features handmade pottery from tableware to planters to vessels and more! Another great gift is a gift card to take a class!  From throwing on the wheel to weaving and indigo shibori dying – adult classes – kids classes – Jill is always updating her offerings!
• Kate & Company [Spring Lake] has the most wonderful gifts!  You’ll find the latest items in home decor, servingware, jewelry… and so much more!
• Bradley Brew [Bradley Beach] is my favorite local brewery. Great gifts for any beer drinkers on your list!  Delicious beers, plus hoodies, tanks, tees, and koozies.  Pickup a gift card to gift the tasting experience (they have an outdoor patio out back!)  for someone else and a 4-pack of Unicorn Girls for you! 🙂 🦄
• Sweet Tease Tea Room [Belmar & Manasquan] offers the most delicious baked good, imported teas, and is my ‘go-to’ place to have ‘afternoon tea’.  Yum!
• Waterlily [Spring Lake & Manasquan] features the latest from Free People & similar brands. My FAVORITE gifts from my hubby are always from Waterlily. Just looking at the hot pink ribbon on the white box under the tree gets me excited!
• Squan Dry Goods [Manasquan] offers ‘up-cycled’ clothing and accessories. My favorite pair of Free Bird boots were an absolute steal when I purchased them here. I’ve also given my sister a Coach purse that was in perfect condition, at a fabulous price!

I’m working on expanding my list – I just ran out of time!  🙂  Stay tuned!!!

Did I not list one of your favorite shops? Give me a quick call or text-I love hearing about your favorite stores too! Happy Holidays!