Shop Localista: EDGE Mid-Century Designs

Since opening eight months ago, has garnered considerable buzz and quickly earned a loyal clientele. Stepping into the enticingly inviting Bloomfield Avenue store front, it's easy to see why. EDGE offers a fetching glimpse into an eye-candy existence of design perfection that Don Draper and his Mad Men cohorts could only aspire to attain.

"I love it that a frequent reaction we get from people when they first walk in is 'WOW'," says EDGE co-owner, Rich Fostek. Folks are equally surprised when they see the affordable price-tags attached. "We're sincerely about making this design period as attainable as possible." (Don't let the dauntingly fab décor and designs in the window keep you from coming in- prices start at a very livable $12, and there are many décor items in the $20 to $40 range.)

In addition to being a stellar source for iconic mid 20th century modern furniture and accessory designs, the shop is the perfect spot to snare an ideal hostess gift. "Mid-century really was THE age for modern entertaining and conversation," explains David Salvatore, the co-creative force behind this lifestyle shop. "It was the era of hip hospitality and it's great to see some of that coming back."

David and Rich are actually more like gracious hosts than retailers. "We want people to be entertained when they come here, by the colors, textures and lines," says David. "We strive to be a destination for sophisticated, fun design." They are also quick to offer helpful suggestions from furnishing to finding that perfect gift.

Hostess gifts are a particular EDGE specialty: "The secret isn't about spending the most money, it's about taking personalized approach," shares David, who is quick to take a tour of ideas: A record executive might enjoy vintage tumblers embellished with musical instruments... An equestrian might get a kick out of a whimsical hand-blown glass horse... An avid entertainer might love a handcrafted serving platter in their favorite hue. In short you want to aim for acknowledging your host's tastes, aesthetics or interests.

"The trick is to transcend anonymity," explains Rich. "You want the person to feel like you were specifically thinking of them as you shopped for their gift." You'll find a staggering array of pitch perfect selections for almost any host you can fathom at this place. Even better, here you'll be buying gift that are sure to be a singular sensation, being that these are mostly period pieces. (You won't believe their range of beautiful vintage barware at equally attractive prices.)

"Anyone can walk in with a bottle of wine, we like to point people in the direction of something that's personal, beautiful and has a sentiment that will linger long after the gift is given." Sort of like a great party, no? With that sort of advice, I'm sure this is a store that will be helping Montclair pick out hostess gifts for quite some time to come.

"One of my favorite things is to hear people say they're 'fans' as they sign our guestbook and mailing list," says David. Sign me up, too. (I'll be back to pick up those tumblers, btw!)

EDGE mid-century modern: 461 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, 973-509-2400