Ridgewood Road Row Hits its Retail Stride

Ridgewood Row has quietly become one of Maplewood's most riveting shopping stretches. Frugal fashionistas well know they can score deals, steals and fabulous finds for just about every family member between the three consignment shops that line the side of the street situated between Maplewood and South Orange. Shoppers will also find a framing shop, art gallery, salon and a dry cleaner as well as the cooler than cool , which revs this retail row with serious caffeine and tempting treats.

Nestled on a rather residential strip on the edge of Maplewood and South Orange, Ridgewood Row has a touch of small town within a small town vibe that serves it well as both a neighborhood nook and a destination location. “It’s quaint, unique and really is a special place,” says , the photographer and artist who owns both and , which round out one side of the street with . “This stretch really combines the best of both towns, so it’s fitting that it’s right on the line of the two.”

Carol Allen, manager of West Village (the trend-forward consignment shop for women situated between the child-friendly second-hand mecca and the upscale designer and home furnishing favorite ) says it’s really people who put this spot on the map. “I meet the nicest people here,” raves Allen. “I can honestly say I consider many customers friends.”   of Milk Money agrees. “I feel like part of the neighborhood,” she says. “I pretty much know everyone who walks through the door.”

Baugh believes that more than just a shopping stop, the Row is a place where people connect. “All the shops offer something unique, so you never get the same old thing,” explains Baugh, gesturing to the kids playing in the backroom as their grownups browse, one of her store’s signature perks. “I even have customers who schedule to meet here for play dates.”

is also a gathering spot as well as a mid-shopping stop for many and owner Joe Ramaikas is happy his establishment has niched so nicely with its neighbors. "I think the best thing about the stretch is the eclectic assortment of shops," says Ramaikas, as patrons busy themselves at his tables writing, sipping, chewing and chatting.

If the assortment of shops offers interesting range it also attracts the same according to Nancy and Jean, the sisters who own , the Row’s most enduring offering. “We love being part of this community,” explains Jean. “Our customers are a wonderfully diverse mix of all ages, backgrounds, tastes and styles — it really creates a special environment.” The Maplewood-born, South Orange-raised siblings set up shop 25 years ago, and have no plans to leave. “We pretty much live here,” jokes Nancy. “So it really does feel like home.”

Takeaway: If you're looking for fashion, furnishings, a face-framing cut, cutting edge art or even just some gourmet caffeine and cupcakes, mosey on over to see what Ridgewood Row has in store — you’re sure to be satiated. While you’re there, you can check out Milk Money’s affordable Halloween costume options, Framing Mill’s 40% off selected ready-made frame sale, Walter Zimmerman’s mesmerizing sculptures at GAS Gallery and Studio, the ear-catching earrings and jewelry at Renaissance Consignment, the whimsical windows of West Village or the insanely good pecan bars or pumpkin cupcakes topped with honey cream cheese frosting at Cupcake Corral.

Come to think of it, I’m grabbing my coat now... See you there!