Winter Farmers’ Market is Not an Oxymoron

By Pat Tanner

Even though this season marks the fifth year that the Central Jersey Slow Food chapter has mounted monthly indoor farmers markets in December, January, and February, many people still wonder what the heck is available when snow hugs the ground and temperatures struggle to rise into the thirties.

I attended the January market and below is a list of what I purchased. Think of it as a guide to the next market, coming up this Sunday.

1. A hunk of my favorite cheese from Valley Shepherd Creamery: Nettlesome. (Yes, it contains real stinging nettles. No, they do not sting.)
2. Packages of Simply Nic’s shortbread bars in two new flavors: winter spice and espresso with cacao nibs.
3. Empire apples from Terhune Orchards. (I managed to bypass the cider donuts and the cider.)
4. From the table of Princeton’s Whole Earth Center market, a can of Jersey Fresh tomatoes and a Colby cheese wrap. (The latter became my lunch.)
5. A hunk of the newest cheese from Cherry Grove Farm: Maidenhead, a semi soft, creamy, flavor-packed cheese washed with beer from Cherry Hill’s Flying Fish.
6. A bag of six assorted dinner rolls from Village Bakery.
7. A jar of ghee made from grassfed cow butter from Pure Indian Organic Ghee.
8. From Davidson’s Exotic Mushrooms of Kennett Square, a box of shiitakes and a box of cremini. (Which I used to make an excellent mushroom goulash.)
9. Beeswax pillar candles from Woods Edge Wool Farms. (Next time: honey.)

At that point, I had run through my funds, so I bypassed the wines of Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Catherine’s Vegan Treats, Ducky Life Teas, and a perfect antidote to winter doldrums: Stony Brook Orchids.

This week’s market will also feature live jazz and lunch offerings by Tre Piani’s Tre Bar tapas café.

Slow Food Central New Jersey’s Winter Farmers’ Market
Sunday, February 28
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tre Piani Restaurant
Princeton Forrestal Village
Plainsboro
Restaurant phone number: 609.452.1515
For information on the farmers market phone 609.577.5113

Night of Hope

By Brianne Harrison

I’ll admit—I’m girly, and I like pretty, sparkly things. And I really like having a chance to save a bit of money on those sparkly things while also contributing to a good cause, but how often do you get the chance to do that? Well, on February 11, Yanina & Co. in Cedar Grove is giving you just that chance at its Night of Hope Event.

From 6 to 8 p.m., attendees can enjoy exclusive discounts on all Yanina & Co. jewelry, as well as delicious hors d’oeuvres by Lu Nello Restaurant and chances to win fabulous prizes, including art deco-inspired diamond earrings, Oved diamond studs, a Swiss-made Louis Erard men’s watch, and a one-year membership to the Park Avenue Club. All proceeds from the night will benefit the Valerie Fund of Saint Barnabas Hospital, which offers comprehensive health services for children with cancer and blood disorders.

Need an extra incentive? The first 25 women who walk through the door will receive a free pair of the pearl and diamond earrings pictured above, valued at $350. That’s right—free jewelry! What’s not to love?

RSVP by calling 973.857.5544.

The Charms of Asbury Park

By Jessica Vogel

If you're looking for a classic New Jersey shore town rich with history and culture, you might want to try Asbury Park. The town, once considered the entertainment epicenter of the state, suffered recently from an economic turndown. Thankfully, it is now being revitalized by a community that is not willing to compromise what Asbury is known for: its deep-rooted musical scene, artistic background, and trendy nature. I recently spent a weekend exploring the area and all it has to offer.

The town provides hours of entertainment in a few square miles. The downtown area has an extensive variety of shops, from the fun housewares of Shelter Home to the custom glassware at Candy’s Cottage. Vintage clothing shops, unique furniture stores, pet boutiques, and antiques stores also line the streets.

The appreciation and creation of art are an enormous part of the town’s atmosphere. Art galleries and outdoor sculptures dot the streets and classes in glass fusing, glass blowing, and pottery are offered at local shops.

Gourmet dining at an affordable price is another great aspect of Asbury Park. I had a meal at Old Man Rafferty’s, but there are plenty of restaurants and coffee shops where you can grab a meal or listen to an open mic night.

Although music is a major presence throughout Asbury Park, the real musical scene thrives closer to the boardwalk, at historical venues such as The Stone Pony and The Wonder Bar, and newer places such as Tim McCloone’s. On any night, you can be sure to walk along the shoreline and hear anything from hard-pounding rock to classic jazz.

After all the time I spent in Asbury Park, I still don’t think it was enough. I could have spent a few more hours scouring the antique shops for the perfect find and I certainly could have listened to another song by a local band. Any guest of the town can find something interesting, whether it’s shopping, art, dining, or the musical scene. Asbury Park is definitely worth the trip.

Gifts Galore

By Brianne Harrison

It’s that time of year when many of us are staring down a list of gift recipients and wondering just what we’re supposed to get them. Sure, you can hit the mall or troll the internet for some inspiration, but if you’re really looking for something unique, there are two events this weekend that will ensure you give a gift they’ve never seen before.

If there’s a bibliophile in the family, be sure to swing by the 18th annual Antiquarian Book Fair. More than 60 dealers of rare books, prints, maps, and ephemera will be gathering at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center in East Hanover to offer their best wares. Find literature that covers all the bases, from history to law, Americana, sports, travel, and music. Even if the giftee isn’t impressed by being handed a first edition, they’re sure to enjoy receiving a book on their favorite subject that can’t be found at Barnes and Noble. Visit newjerseybookfair.com for more information.

Forget the crowds and frustration of the mall—head over to Tuckerton Seaport this weekend for Christkindlmarkt. Sip mulled cider and munch roasted chestnuts while listening to strolling carolers and shopping for unique gifts from the many crafters and vendors in attendance. There’ll also be ice cutting demonstrations, decoy carvers, a wine tasting by Valenzano Winery, and children’s rides, so everyone can have some fun! Visit tuckertonseaport.org or call 609.296.8868 for more information.

Closet Case

By Judith Garfield

I’ve recently discovered a great new shopping destination that I can’t get enough of.

My closet.

Diving deep into the forgotten realms of my wardrobe has been rewarding and cost effective. Of course, this is not an original idea. It is an increasingly popular past time for those of us who have discovered we really don’t need to buy a new outfit every time we get an invitation to a party. Take the advice of the experts and “shop your closet.”

I was amazed at the goodies I found. Like that burgundy tweed suit from a few years ago that all of a sudden looks spectacularly fresh. And there are no annoying salespeople hovering over me, giving me that look of disdain as I carefully inspect the offerings. I pretty much like everything I see here. Nothing too young, nothing too matronly. All perfectly appropriate pour moi.

If you are contemplating this shopping experience I suggest the first step is a purge of all those dismal outfits you never wear and probably shouldn’t have bought in the first place. Some people actually hire individuals who come to your closet and tell you what looks really dreadful, what can be resurrected, and what you should buy to help update what you are keeping. Don’t bother. Just corral your BFF (best fashion friend) and together decide what to use and what to lose.

My other suggestion is this-huggablehangers.com. Honestly, I never thought I could be so in love with a hanger, but these space-saving flocked hangers keep even the most delicate and slippery of tops from falling off. And yet, they are sturdy enough for winter coats. I resisted buying them for years but now that I have them I can never go back. I can now actually find things that have been M.I.A. for months.

To get you started, you might want to pick up a copy of “Shop Your Closet” by Melanie Fascitelli. She’s a professional who will guide you in your attempt to organize your wardrobe and perhaps save you from more unnecessary purchases. As for me, I plan to visit the basement emporium. I haven’t been there for a while and I hear inventory is at an all time high.

Happy shopping!

Finders Keepers

By Brianne Harrison

Talk about a treasure hunt! Starting today, Devon Fine Jewelry will be giving away 30 pieces of jewelry worth more than $25,000 to thank Northern Bergen County for its support over the past 30 years.

Some companies are content to celebrate 30 years with a cake and perhaps a party for some favored clients, but Devon’s owner, Nancy Schuring, decided to take it a bit further. She placed 30 pieces of jewelry (one for each year Devon’s been in business) in Devon shopping bags with “Finders Keepers” tags on them. The bags have been left all over Devon’s home town of Wyckoff and the areas surrounding it.

“Everybody loves surprises and getting gifts! With our Finders Keepers Event, we’re putting the two together,” Schuring says. “It's been a fantastic 30 years in business and we appreciate the loyalty of Wyckoff and the surrounding communities. We wanted to express our gratitude by giving back in a unique way.”

The bags contain a wide variety of jewelry, from white and yellow gold rings to pendants, bracelets, an d even some diamond necklaces! The pieces’ worth ranges from a few hundred dollars up to $3000 for a platinum sapphire and diamond ring. All Schuring asks in return is that finders share the story of where and how they discovered their bags.

The bags may be found anywhere, from grocery stores and shopping malls to libraries and beauty salons, so keep your eyes peeled!

How to be Fabulous

By Brianne Harrison

Those who weren’t able to get into the tents at Bryant Park can take heart: Downtown Millburn is hosting its own fashion week, and kicking it off with a fashion show at the Chanticleer this Thursday.

Featured in the show will be the latest styles from many of Millburn’s top fashion stops. Tickets run $60 each and include the show and a sit-down dinner. Proceeds from the event will be donated to three local charities: the American Red Cross, The Education Foundation of Millburn-Short Hills, and the First Aid Squad. For more information, call 973.379.2341.

For those who can’t make the show, fashion week will run October 30 through November 5. Participating Millburn retailers will offer special in-store events and promotions.

If you love both animals and fashion, you’re in luck! Devon Fine Jewelry is hosting their Jewelry Sale & Showcase to Benefit Pets October 29-31. Browse the selection of charms that can be custom-colored to match your pet’s markings and enter your pet in a photo gallery for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate. Ten percent of the revenue from the event will be donated to the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge.

A Day in Tunisia (in Little Silver)

By Pat Tanner

My first trip abroad, shortly after I was married, was to Morocco and I have had a special place in my heart for the foods of North Africa ever since. So on October 29 I plan to make the much shorter but still exotic trip down to Sickles Market for special tastings and demonstrations. Special guests, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. that day, will be members of the Mahjoub family, whose Tunisian estate produces olives, sun-dried tomatoes, harissa, olive oils, and other traditional, authentic condiments. The event, which is free and open to the public, will introduce a new line of specialty food from all around the Mediterranean, Tunisia included.

Shortly after my Moroccan adventure I came across the recipe below in Deborah Madison’s first cookbook and it as been one of my go-to party dishes ever since. It can be made in any season, looks gorgeous in a big glass bowl (you can add black oil-cured olives for contrast), is inexpensive, and can be assembled in a matter of minutes. The carrots are sliced lengthwise into thin, fettucine-like ribbons. Using a swivel-action peeler like Oxo’s makes the job a snap. If you haven’t used orange flower water before, be advised that a little goes a long way. Start with half a teaspoon, taste, and add quarter teaspoons after that.

MOROCCAN CARROT SALAD
“The Greens Cookbook” by Deborah Madison, Reed Business Information, 1987

1 pound carrots
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
Orange flower water to taste

Peel the carrots and discard the peels. Continuing to use the peeler, scrape the carrots lengthwise, working your way around them, removing strips of carrot about 3/8 in wide. Set them aside in a bowl. Mix together the remaining ingredients. Taste and add more orange flower water if needed. Pour this dressing over the carrots and toss them very lightly with your fingers. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour before serving.
Makes 4 cups, serving 4 to 6.

Sickles Market is at 1 Harrison Avenue, Little Silver, 732.741.9563, sicklesmarket.com

Taste of Crete

By Pat Tanner

Taste of Crete, a small store that opened on Route 206 in Hillsborough a couple of weeks ago, represents what is for me the most dangerous form of shopping. Esther Luongo Psarakis, the proprietor, stocks an intriguing selection of imported Greek artisanal foodstuffs that are all natural, often organic, and uniformly delicious. I go in with the intention of stocking up on hostess and holiday gifts but come away laden with delicacies that somehow never make it out of my own kitchen.

These include Taste of Crete’s award-winning olive oil, made from Koroneiki olives and bearing the European Union’s PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) seal; raw honeys in flavors like wild thyme, pine, and chestnut; jarred savories such as smoked eggplant spread; jarred sweet toppings in flavors like fig with ginger and chocolate in honey; and traditional cookies (naturally vegan and cholesterol free) named for and made using the recipes of Evangelia Psarakis, Esther’s mother-in-law.

In fact, Evangelia was the inspiration for the gourmet food company, which has been selling its wares via the Internet since 2004 and which has been featured on Martha Stewart Living Radio. After marrying into this Greek family - and having, as she calls them, “two big Greek weddings, first in America and then in the mountains of Crete” - Esther and her husband would return to the family’s homestead each summer and from that – and Evangelia’s home cooking – the idea for Taste of Crete was born.

On my first visit I was introduced to an intriguing new taste sensation: sweet olive topping, intended for over ice cream and yogurt. Who knew olives cooked with sugar and lemon would be delicious? Unless I manage to give away my jar very soon, I just know I’ll find myself in my own kitchen dumping some over soft goat cheese and glomming it up with crackers.

Taste of Crete, 400 Route 206 South, Hillsborough. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon.-Fri. and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sat. Phone: 908.685.2035, tasteofcrete.com.

A French Country Tale

By Judith Garfield

Life was so simple before I ever heard the words French Country.

I mean, technically I knew about French, because I took it in high school, and I knew about Country, because I live in one, but I had no idea stringing the two together could cause me such anxiety.

B.F.C. (before French Country) I lived in a lovely apartment in New York decorated eclectically, although I think quite nicely. I leaned toward weathered, chipped antiques, and in my high-floor Manhattan apartment with a spectacular view, shabby looked chic. In the country it just looked shabby. Something got lost in the translation.

So I realized I needed some decorating ideas for my farmhouse. I poured over shelter magazines and internet articles about pretty interiors for my new setting. Believe me, it’s not easy finding your way in a world fraught with terms like toile, anduze, and Quimper. (that’s keem-pair for all you city folk)

I have since learned the following…. Roosters are F.C.; chickens are not. Grapes are F.C.; raisins are not. Brittany is F.C.; Britney is not. There was a definite learning curve, and many times S. had to pull me back when I was about to go too far with the roosters. The French probably think roosters are tacky. This is pure speculation, but I suspect you would not find roosters in a high-end French kitchen.

My mismatched dinnerware always looked interesting and bohemian. Now it was just looking second hand, and not in a good way. I became enamored with Quimper-style pottery and ordered dinner plates, serving pieces, trivets, and candlesticks, not to mention sconces. I couldn’t stop myself. I was bingeing. On French Country. Mon Dieu!

I finally got things under control with help from my family and friends. I admitted I had a problem, and that was the first step. Now I can casually browse through any Pierre Deux catalogue, the authority on all things French Country, and put it down with very minimal yearning.

But that wire breadbasket sure looked cute.

Deal or No Deal?

By Millicent K. Brody

After a ten-day stay, it was had to leave Stratton Mountain. Even though we ended up traipsing around in the pouring rain for four days, I still loved it there.

Now that I’m back, I must comment on the question I’m most frequently asked: “So, what were the outlets like?”

I think it’s fair to say we all love a bargain; however, please don’t visit Manchester, Vermont for the outlets. There are no bargains. Most of whatever you’re looking for can be purchased at your favorite local department store or specialty shop for a lot less money. But if you love browsing country roads filled with barns and shops overflowing with antiques and bibelots, go ahead and plan an excursion.

I will admit, I’m a sucker for the Vermont Country Store. You really can’t visit Vermont without stopping and browsing the shelves, bins, nooks and crannies at Vermont’s “Voice of the Mountain”. But don’t expect to find any great deals there, either.

I was—and still am—searching for a red-and-white check cotton tablecloth. My first thought was, “What better place to find it than the Vermont Country Store?” No such luck.

What they did have (and please don’t laugh) was a “Genuine Oilcloth: Wipe-Clean, Real, Fabric Cloth, That Won’t Peel or Crack”.

How many of you remember your grandmother’s “Genuine Oilcloth Tablecloth” that was like a part of her kitchen table?

At first I thought, "Go for it. It's probably the closest thing to what you’re really looking for,” but then I lifted the size 60 x 84 cloth ($59.95), and thought, “NO!” Aside from the fact that it weighed a ton, I could not stop seeing my late mother’s face. She’d never approve of inviting friends to dinner and serving them on oilcloth, genuine or otherwise.

Then, because I had orders for several long, colorful rain slickers, I headed over to that department. Again, no such luck. However, the very kind salesperson gave me the address of a shop in Maine that would happily welcome my online order.

If you find yourself in Vermont and hankering for a bit of shopping, definitely visit the historic village of Grafton. Stop by My Mind’s Eye for a chat with proprietor and craftsman Jason Ballard. Watch as he creates everything from wooden bowls to furniture to wine stoppers, all right in his studio/showroom. (55 Bell Rd., Grafton,Vt., mymindsdesign.com). Also on Main Street is the Hunter Gallery of Fine Art, which offers blown glass, pastels, watercolors, and sculptures.

Don’t leave without a visit to the Grafton Cooperative Cheese Company. (533 Townshend Road, Grafton). Founded in 1892, Grafton Cheese is crafted from hormone-free cow milk gathered from family farms across the state. Aged from one to four years, Grafton Cheese was named among the top 100 cheeses in the world by Wine Spectator Magazine. Enjoy generous samples, a grand assortment of crackers, and the chance to purchase a fine selection of cheddar cheese.

Of course, it’s virtually impossible to drop everything and run to Vermont, but if you’d like to enjoy the leaves and music, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Made in Vermont Music Festival’ takes place Wednesday, September 30 at 7:30 p.m. (Tickets: $22 adults: $18 seniors 65 and over; $12 students: Flynn Tix at 802.86-FLYNN and at wso.org)

New Jersey: More Than Just Corrupt Politicians

By Brianne Harrison

It seems like New Jersey really can’t catch a break. Just when we start clawing our way toward respectability, some new corruption scandal erupts, and we’re back to being the subject of national jokes, much eye-rolling, and comments of “Of course, it’s New Jersey!”

Which really isn’t fair at all. New Jersey has a lot of good things going for it, although out-of-staters seem to think it’s one giant mob-run garbage dump populated with characters from the Sopranos and the Real Housewives. I grew up in and very near New Jersey, and when I think of the state, I tend to think of charming small towns like Lambertville, where I now work, and Princeton, where I now live. Or Collingswood, Haddonfield, or Westfield. I’m not naïve—I know there are lots of non-idyllic places in the state, but the charming spots are out there. People don’t think of small towns when they think of New Jersey—they think of dangerous cities. I’ll admit to falling victim to that once myself, feeling nervous the first time I had to go into Trenton on my own, but what I found surprised me. The area I was in (granted, it was the nice area of town, near the Capitol building) was lovely, and the people were quite friendly. They smiled at me as we passed on the sidewalk. When was the last time someone did that to you in New York?

New Jersey is a small state, which means it’s easy to criss cross it and take advantage of everything it has to offer. You could, theoretically, spend your morning strolling along the Delaware or popping in and out of antiques shops in Lambertville, perhaps sipping a nice, house-roasted coffee from Rojo’s Roastery; then head north and enjoy the nightlife and views of the Manhattan skyline from Jersey City or Hoboken. After you’ve slept off the night’s revelries, you can cruise down to the shore, choosing from a wide array of towns to suit your mood (hip and happening? Laid back and quiet? You’ve got it!) and work on your tan. On our way home, pick up dinner fixings at one of the many farm stands, farmers’ markets, or mom-and-pop specialty shops that dot the state. There aren’t too many places where you could accomplish all this in a single weekend, if you have the stamina.

Does New Jersey have its problems? Yes, but what state doesn’t? New York’s politicians certainly can’t brag about their squeaky-clean noses, but I don’t remember too many “Oh, of course, it's New York,” comments after the Spitzer scandal.

There will always be corrupt politicians out there. Another scandal will come, and we Jersey defenders (or apologists) will roll our eyes and cringe. When that happens, we’ll do just what we’re doing now—smile grimly at others’ jokes at our state’s expense, try to put our faith in the good politicians out there (and we do have a few!), and remind ourselves of the many great things New Jersey has to offer.

Bringing Tuscan Craftsmanship to Central Jersey

By Pat Tanner

I have been enamored of Greg and Suzanne Evans’ home furnishings shop, Tuscan Hills, since it opened five years ago in a charming two-story spot at the corner of Nassau and Harrison streets in Princeton. From day one the Evanses featured handcrafted furnishings, accessories, and gift items from small, family run businesses in Tuscany and Umbria - most not previously exported to the U.S.; all made using centuries old techniques that reflect both classical and contemporary design esthetics as well as impeccable craftsmanship.

In April the Evanses relocated their showroom a few miles up the road to a light-filled, expansive spot in an historic building on Route 27 in Kingston, where they have much more room to spotlight such treasures as Busatti table linens, hand-painted Deruta ceramics, hand-forged iron furniture, cutlery from the same family who supplied knives and swords to the Medici family, and a sparkling collection of art glass, crystal, and stemware from equally unique sources. (A set of contemporary champagne flutes from Tuscan Hills is one of my most cherished possessions.)

For appropriate fare to accompany Italian wines at the opening celebration of the new showroom, Greg and Suzanne called upon their good friend and client, Andrea Di Meglio, one of two brothers who own Luca’s restaurants in Somerset and Flemington. The Di Meglios were among Tuscan Hill’s first customers, buying antique wall sconces - and eventually tables and chairs - for their restaurants. Below is a recipe for one of the hors d’oeuvres Andrea Di Meglio featured.

For more information on Tuscan Hills – including their associated business of renting restored villas in Tuscany – visit tuscan-hills.com

CHERRY TOMATO & BURRATA BRUSCHETTA
Andrea Di Meglio, Chef & Co-owner, Luca’s Ristorante

For the topping:
12 ounces burrata cheese, cubed
1/2 pint cherry tomatoes, cut in fourths
1 roasted red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 tablespoon capers
1-1/2 tablespoons sun dried tomatoes, chopped
3 tablespoons chopped basil
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, unfiltered
1 tablespoon balsamic reduction
Salt and pepper to taste
8 1/2-inch-thick slices Italian bread
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, unfiltered
1 tablespoon chopped basil

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a bowl, combine all topping ingredients except salt and pepper. Mix gently and season with salt and pepper. Brush olive oil on sliced bread. Place in heated oven and toast about 3 minutes, or until lightly browned. Spoon bruschetta topping onto toasted bread and garnish with fresh basil. Makes 8 pieces.

Girls' Night Out

By Brianne Harrison

Now that spring’s officially here, it’s time to emerge from a long hibernation, get out, and have some fun. I can think of few better ways to do that than to grab a few girlfriends and head to historic Princeton for Girls’ Night Out in Palmer Square on Thursday, May 14.

Girls’ Night Out will feature exclusive promotions and discounts, free gifts, and food, all courtesy of the restaurants and shops of Palmer Square. After you shop till you drop, stop by New Jersey Life’s rejuvenation station, where you can listen to live music, enter to win prizes, and receive an NJL tote bag and magazine.

Participating shops and restaurants include Banana Republic, Bucks County Dry Goods, Kate Spade, Design within Reach, Lace Silhouettes Lingerie, Mediterra (which is offering a complimentary Sangria!), Princeton Corkscrew wine shop, Spruce, Winberies Restaurant and Bar, and Zoe. For a full list of participating businesses and their offerings, visit palmersquare.com/gno. To RSVP for this event, click here.

Girls’ Night Out is a free event and runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m., Thursday, May 14.

A Trip to the Shoepermarket, Anyone?

By Judith Garfield

For the loveless cook a trip to the supermarket is alarming.

It triggers the same feeling as when I follow S. into Home Depot. My eyes glaze over and my brain shuts down. I am surrounded by things in which I have no interest.

My goal is to get in and out as quickly as possible. No easy task. Upon entering I become disoriented. I stand frozen. Should I go clockwise or counter? Stay to the perimeter and take short trips only to the necessary areas, or go up and down each aisle?

I am doomed to wander around the aisles for much longer than I thought I would have to, because things have been arbitrarily rearranged. This is a ploy to make us spot new products we wouldn’t ordinarily buy. I have a much better idea. Why not take a cue from Wal-Mart, where you can buy your groceries and….a new pair of shoes. It’s no surprise that in this tough economy Wal-Mart is doing well. Where else can you go to buy ketchup and a cute pair of sling backs?

Even President Obama has given a nod to women’s love of shoes. He jokingly told Michelle she doesn’t need any more shoes. “Why can’t you wear the ones you had on yesterday for the rest of the Presidency?” he asked. Clearly, Michelle would love my idea of a shoepermarket, once she starts grocery shopping again. I am jealous of the first lady right now, because not only does she not have to enter a supermarket for four years, she doesn’t have to cook either. That’s change she can believe in.

Wonder if the White House chef sometimes makes up cute names for his menus, like tonight we will be starting with cream of Barack-ali soup. Our main course, a bonus-less breast of chicken in a savory stock, and for dessert, a creamy strawberry tarp.

But I digress. I must prepare myself for a trip to the supermarket. I take my list, get what I need and am about to leave, relieved I have no more decisions to make.

Except one. Paper or plastic?

Shop 'Til You Drop

By Brianne Harrison

It’s no secret that the economy is hitting businesses hard, and small and independent businesses are being hit the hardest. Those trying to make their living in fashion are being dealt a particularly difficult hand: even in the best of times, fashion is one of the most difficult industries to succeed in.

There’s strength in numbers, though, as well as an excellent opportunity for shoppers, and 25 independent and emerging designers from New York and New Jersey are gathering at Creative Conspiracy, a temporary retail space in Montclair, to introduce their collections.

For four days, shoppers can browse men’s and women’s clothes, jewelry, and accessories while also taking advantage of the entertainment and free services being offered. Sip a free mocktail while you shop and enjoy a discounted makeover, a free chair massage, or a free hair styling courtesy of Bangz Salon and Wellness Spa when you get tired.

Creative Conspiracy is a great place to find a perfect Mother’s Day gift or to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. Best of all, you’ll walk away with beautiful items and the satisfaction of knowing you helped a deserving designer who might otherwise not be able to keep doing what they love and do best.

Participating designers include J.B Born, B. Artise Originals, Sandra Baquero, Atlantis Jewelry, Marcelle Decaille, Vernakular, Devils May Care, Issy Salomon, Butter by Keba, A Seat at the Table, Pinnington Bags, Sierra Rising, Guerrilla Soul, Must-Have Accessories, Rhizome Design Concepts, Sohung Designs, Vanessa Ro Designs, Z Chocolate Candy, Amparo3, Park It Guides, NTR Designs, and Gail Toma. The event kicks off with a VIP opening on Thursday, April 16 and runs through Sunday, April 19 at 10 South Park St. in Montclair. To see a preview of the wares being offered, click here. For more information, visit creativeconspiracybyb.com.