It’s time to get out that list and check it twice—the holiday shopping crunch has begun. And though clicking on a big box retailer is always convenient, shopping locally can be more satisfying and personalized (plus, no package delays if you’re picking up). Or, for a truly local treat, gift an experience that will bring joy for months to come. Scroll down for our local NJ MOM Holiday Gift Guide, chosen by our editors, including unique ideas from our NJ MOM Partners. Want more ways to celebrate this holiday season? Make sure you fill your bucket list with our guide to all things holiday. (featured photo credit: istock/lambada)
SPONSORED
American Dream
This holiday season, Gift Outside the Box at American Dream — the ultimate holiday destination, where gifts aren’t just things, they’re unforgettable experiences your family will never forget. The festivities kick off on November 15 with Santa’s Arrival Parade, followed by an action-packed Black Friday weekend that launches a season full of events, giveaways, and festive activations you won’t want to miss. At American Dream, there’s something for everyone on your list (and yes, that includes you!). Gift a Thrill at Nickelodeon Universe, the tri-state’s only indoor theme park with rides for every age and thrill seeker. Or Gift a Splash at DreamWorks Water Park, the largest indoor water park in the country — a tropical escape right in New Jersey. With over 25 indoor attractions and 200+ retail and dining options, American Dream truly has everything on your wish list. So this holiday season, skip the ordinary and give the extraordinary—Gift Outside the Box. Gift an Experience. Plan your visit and buy now at American Dream, just minutes from Manhattan!
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Gifts For Her
SPONSORED
SoJo Spa Club
60 River Road, Edgewater, NJ 07020
The Merida Mini Bag ($269)
Get ready for your holiday parties with this flap-style shoulder bag. Lined in 100% linen, the structured handle allows the bag to sit snuggly under your shoulder, or use the long strap to wear it crossbody for a bit of flair.
Available at The Salty Pearl in Bay Head
Adornment Sweater ($110)
Give a low-effort seasonal vibe with this on-trend Classic Fair Isle sweater. This midweight knit is relaxed, easy to style, and ideal for those chilly winter days.
Available at Camden Road in Basking Ridge
Samo Hoops ($46)
Give that timeless look of hoops that can be worn every day or stand out on special occasions. This modern, minimalist look pairs well with any outfit and is available in gold, silver, or rose gold.
Available at Noellery in Hoboken, Jersey City, and Montclair
Gifts For Kids and Tweens
SPONSORED
Five Star Swim School
Give the Gift of a Lifetime This Holiday Season. This year, skip the toys and give something that truly lasts — the gift of swimming. Swim lessons at Five Star Swim School teach confidence, safety, and a life-saving skill your child will carry for years to come. Our warm-water pools and caring instructors make learning fun, comfortable, and rewarding year-round. Choose your perfect holiday gift: Gift Cards – A flexible choice that can be used for swim lessons, Open Swim, or birthday parties — you pick the amount; Private Drop-In Lessons – Personalized one-on-one instruction with no long-term commitment. Buy as many as you like — lessons can be scheduled anytime; and Gift Packages – Eight weeks of swim lessons, free first-year registration, a Five Star tote, and a stuffed Tickle toy. Give more than a gift — give confidence, safety, and joy in the water.
Locations in Cherry Hill, Deptford, East Brunswick, East Hanover, Eatontown, Edison, Galloway, Oakland, and Princeton
New Jersey Devils Penny Hockey Game ($52.49)
Support your favorite New Jersey team with this New Jersey Devils Penny Hockey Game. This made-in-the-USA wood set includes a velvet pouch with two metal pegs, a penny, and directions, so you can drop the puck and go.
Available online at the NHL Shop
Suitcase Series: Airport
If you are traveling this season, your little one can get right in on the action with this Suitcase Series portable play and imagination-on-the-go set. This Airport playset includes 18 pieces: planes, a pilot, and travelers with luggage. And no need to worry about safety —it’s eco-friendly, FSC-certified bamboo construction with non-toxic paints.
Available at Wildflowers Boutique in Madison
The “Gingerbread and Hot Cocoa” Slippers ($32)
It’s that time of year for all things cozy, including these slippers with sweet logos of a Gingerbread Man on one foot and a cup of steaming hot cocoa on the other. Curl up by the fire and stay toasty Christmas morning and all winter long.
Available at The Pretty Pink Rooster in Bernardsville
BILLY Limitless ($95)
Kids of all abilities can find a cool and stylish pair of kicks with BILLY Limitless, a partnership between RWJBarnabas Health’s Children’s Specialized Hospital (CSH) and BILLY Footwear. The result is BILLY Limitless — a fully adaptive shoe designed with direct input from CSH clinicians, patients, and families. They blend style, comfort, and accessibility, giving kids more freedom to move and independence. And the best part? Use your remaining HSA/FSA dollars to purchase them this season. And it’s not just kids—adult sizes and colors too!
Available online at Billy Footwear
Gifts For Him
SPONSORED
Ocean Casino Resort
Looking for something merry & bright? Give the gift of Ocean this holiday season. Explore signature holiday products, including the Ocean snow globe, the Ocean x Tipsy Elves Sweater, the Building Ornament, and more.
Available at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City
Cape May’d Linen Hat ($32)
Show your love for Cape May with an embroidered black or white linen hat that elevates the basic baseball cap into a stylish headpiece.
Available at Cape May’d in Cape May
Wax London Whiting Wool Check Overshirt ($260)
This Wax signature piece can be a shirt, a mid-layer, a jacket, or whatever you want it to be. Cozy up to the blue knitted brushed wool blend with hues of burgundy, brown, and grey, and environmentally-friendly Corozo nut buttons.
Available at e>love Clothing Gallery in Somerville
Rototo-Black-Check & Step Socks ($40)
Give a nod to mid-century style with these Jacquard socks featuring a mix of ladder-like patterns and plaids. He’ll stay cozy and look sharp in these showstopper socks.
Available at City Workshop Men’s Supply Co. in Maplewood
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