It’s time to get out that list and check it twice—the holiday shopping crunch has begun. And though a click of a mouse is always convenient, shopping locally can be more satisfying and personalized (plus no package delays). Or, if you’re looking to mix it up, opt for an experience (some with special holiday deals) that will bring joy for months to come. Scroll down for our local NJMOM holiday gift guide for all, including special discounts for NJMOM readers, and for all your holiday wishes, make sure you see when Santa will be in NJ. (featured photo credit: Teggy French)
One-Of-A-Kind Experience Gifts For The Whole Family
SPONSORED
Island Spa & Sauna
In need of a mini vacation? Give the gift of relaxation this holiday season with a special visit to Island Spa & Sauna! For the entire month of December, grab any gift card for 10% off and treat yourself or your loved ones to the perfect spa experience. Any gift cards valued at $300+ will receive an additional complimentary admission ticket! Island Spa gift cards come in increments of $50 and are able to be purchased both in-store and online. Please call us at (732) 253 – 7379 or visit our website at islandspasauna.com for more information.
Night Forms at Grounds For Sculpture ($22-$28 per ticket)
Gift the whole family a night out at this multi-sensory light and sound experience at the Ground For Sculpture art and horticulture collection. Building on the success of last year’s exhibition, Night Forms: Infinite Wave is a unique, new route that will take visitors through the grounds offering a different perspective, with over a dozen installations punctuating the dark. The exhibit starts November 25 and continues through April 2, 2023.
SPONSORED
Diggerland USA Black Friday Sale
Dig this great gift idea with a Black Friday Sale—2023 tickets or a season pass to the ONLY construction theme & water park this holiday season. Tickets are $39.95 for a limited time and quantity ( Reg. $49.95), and Season Passes give you 2 parks for one price and are $109.99 for a limited time and quantity (Reg. $159.99). Each Any Day Ticket is valid for one day per guest. Season passes include our construction theme park and The Water Main water park (open Memorial Day thru Labor Day) for the 2023 season. Get access to our ALL-NEW Wave Pool Expansion, Crossing Activity Pool, Crazy Cranes, Shake N’ Roll V2 Rollers, and new Mini Dig Shapes Game. No reservation is required for entry during the 2023 season. Tickets exclude Soaring Eagle Zipline, Food and Beverage, Merchandise, Game Room, and Drive Through Light Show.
For Her
Silk Velvet Ikat Clutch ($85)
This pretty clutch with a chic ikat design will transform any outfit into a conversation piece, stirring ‘where did you get that?’ inquiries. Available online with free local doorstep delivery at Rose City Beauty based in Madison.
Faux Soft Leather Puff Vest Camel or Black ($68)
Even if you’re not a fan of Yellowstone, you can still channel the cozy Western style that’s been on fire this fall. Pair it with cowboy boots for a trendy look that’s sure to make you feel a bit of the West out East. Available at Press Clothing in Tuckerton.
KD Hoops ($56)
These modern chic hoops are like rays of sunshine, giving you light and warming vibes, and will easily go from day to night. Available at Katie Diamond in Ridgewood.
Skiers Pajama Set ($96)
A luxe pair of PJs is always a good idea, especially if they’re made with soft Peruvian Pima cotton and silky Modal. Add a cozy fire and a cup of cocoa, and you’re ready for a night in. Available at Carrie Dunham in Bayhead.
LOVE Campaign Bags ($60-$150)
We LOVE these one-of-a-kind, limited-edition bags, which were designed with Paper, Ribbon & Wrap, and the J. Nunez Gallery to celebrate Millburn’s resiliency over the damage done by Hurricane Ida one year later. Each one is a handmade work of art and benefits Millburn’s relief fund. Available at Paper, Ribbon & Wrap in Millburn.
Quince Cardigan Cream ($247)
The classic cable cardi gets a modern update with lantern sleeves and cropped design. Thanks to a relaxed fit and cream color, it’s the everyday essential you never knew you needed (and wanted) this season. Available at The Margo Market in Hoboken.
For Him
Faherty Legend Sweater Shirt/Charcoal Black Buffalo ($178)
He’ll love the look and appreciate the comfy feel of this incredibly soft and stretchy knit flannel that’s a perfect piece for layering or standing on its own. Available at Nine North in Haddonfield.
Jersey Shore Handled Mug with Sliding Lid ($40)
Keep that summer feeling going with an insulated to-go cup that will remind him of endless beach days and vacay all winter long. Each comes with a pressure-fit slider lid and a durable finish. Available at Bungalow Road in Sea Bright, Avon, and Atlantic Highlands.
GAMMA 505 Pickleball Paddle ($179.99)
For the pickleball enthusiast or one curious about the buzz, gift him a pro paddle that will up his dink shot and ace his game. Add a few lessons from Landing Creek Academy in Egg Harbor, and it’s game on. Available at Landing Creek Pickleball in Ocean City.
Johnnie-O Harwich Lightweight Quilted Puffer Vest ($148)
Layer up with this lightweight vest that will be his new go-to for the chilly season. The two-way zip front, waist cinch, and contrast colors give this staple a rugged look and trendy update. Available at John Hyatt in Summit.
Claremont Distilled Spirits
For the guy who considers himself a spirit aficionado, a bottle of locally-made, barrel-aged whiskey is just the thing to warm his spirits (and heart). Their Tracks & Rails whiskies and bourbons are distilled on a traditional pot with constant monitoring for optimal cuts resulting in rich, full-body flavors. Available at Claremont Distillery in Fairfield.
SPONSORED
Stellar Biotics
This holiday season, say “hello” to NJ-based Stellar Biotics – the trusted source for all-natural immune and gut health supplements since 2002. Their Essential+ Bundle makes a great gift for anyone on your list. The bundle features Stellar Biotics’ three metabiotic, probiotic and immune support “must haves” – everything you need to balance your immune system and gut and restore order to your microbiome.* Now through December 31, 2022, NJMOM subscribers receive an exclusive 25% discount on their Essential+ Bundle with code HOLIDAY22 – a steal at $75.
The Essential+ Bundle comes in an eco-friendly gift bag and features Stellar Biotics and best-selling all-natural, immune, and gut health supplements. One 60-count bottle of del-IMMUNE V ® DAILY, the leading metabiotic offering immediate, broad-spectrum immune support;* One 60-count bottle of delPRO™ PROBIOTIC, the only probiotic infused with the immune-boosting metabiotic, del-IMMUNE V; One 2.4 oz bottle of Daily Throat Remedy, a colostrum-rich throat spray for on-the-spot immune support. So, give the gift of health this year with immune and gut health essentials from StellarBiotics. Shop stellarbiotics.com and use code HOLIDAY22 at checkout.
For Kids
Magna-Tiles Dino World 40 Piece Set ($80)
Want a toy that kids will play with that also sneaks in some learning? These Magna Tiles with bright volcanic pieces and dinosaur figures will entertain them for hours while building spatial, planning, and fine motor skills. Available at Wonder World Toy Store and Baby Boutique in Medford.
SPONSORED
Experiences can be unforgettable, but what about the experience that can teach a life skill? Gift your loved ones with swim lessons! Five Star Swim School is the place for effective swim lessons! They have a 3:1 student-instructor ratio, and classes are grouped by age and skill. It is a fantastic gift for kids as young as 6 months to 15 years old.
Five Star Swim School has a special Gift Certificate offer for our NJ MOM readers. In all New Jersey locations: Cherry Hill, Edison, Galloway, Princeton, Eatontown, East Hanover, and Deptford, purchase a $100 or more Gift Certificate and receive a FREE pair of Finis goggles, a Five Star towel, and a Five Star tote bag.
Teen Spirit Care Package ($48)
Show that hard-to-shop-for teen you really care with a skin-drenching face mask, funky hair clips, neon bracelet, lip mask, and gummy bears all wrapped into one package for a chill night in. Available at Meus in Maplewood.
Ice Cream Cart Push Along Trolley ($100)
Wooden toys not only look better but offer a more eco way to fill your kids’ toy chest. This cool cart lets little walkers stretch their legs and imaginations with yummy treats stored in the front or back of the cart. Available at Just Kidding Around in Montclair.
Skipit’s Slippers ($30)
Keep those tootsies toasty with cute lil’ slippers as adorable as the baby feet they are covering. Available at Lu Lu Belle in Norwood.
Speedster Silver Race Car-On ($140)
Gentlekids, start your engines—littles will love to zip around in this spiffy roadster with detailed chrome accents, a working steering column, and rubber tires. Vroom, vroom! Available at The Toy Chest in Hope.
For Home
Wooden Weave Bowl ($63)
Made from Baltic Birch plywood, this beautifully laser-cut 9-inch bowl is a work of art. The intricate design with multiple concentric layers looks gorgeous displayed on top of a table or shelf. Available at Homestead in Princeton.
Ornament Drinking Set ($38)
Holiday glasses that look like they belong on the tree will be the talk of any Christmas table. These vessels fit beautifully in hands and come with a funnel and paper straws for effortless imbibing of your fave beverage, be it alcoholic or not. Available at Teggy French in Bernardsville.
Surf’s Up Northern Woods & Fir Paint Can Candle ($24)
Smells like Christmas (see above)—this woodsy blend of natural frankincense and fir will fill your space with an evergreen aroma for the holiday season and those wintery, snowed-in days. Available at Surf’s Up Candle in Belmar.
Printed Porcelain Scenic Ornament (from $34)
Commemorate your fave place with a handpainted scenic ornament featuring well-known NJ spots with iconic locations. Make it even more special by personalizing it with a date or saying like “where it all began.” Available at Love, Amarie online.
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