Small businesses are crucial to economic growth in the United States. Not to mention, they are living dreams for the business owners running them. Light has been shed across the nation on our need for small business success and more specifically the need for Black-owned small business growth and operation. Montclair + Bloomfield are home to so many amazing Black-owned small businesses covering industries from food to self-care — that, of course, we had to share. Read on for a list of these Black-owned businesses in Montclair and Bloomfield to support today and every day.
Disclaimer: Know of a business to add to this list? It’s growing — so please email [email protected] to add.
Montclair
Ahava Felicidad Hair + Body | 4 Midland Avenue
Moving from chemical-processed hair to a natural look is an intense and sometimes exhausting journey. Ahava Felicidad Hair and Body is here to help with that transition. The team knows the correct protective styles, trim schedules, products, and more to help with this process. Come in for a visit or check out the product offerings for more insight.
Amazing Lash Studio | 644 Bloomfield Avenue
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This lash studio has locations all over the country, including in Montclair. This spot is a must-visit destination for anyone who enjoys beauty treatments. Amazing Lash Studio provides facial waxing, lash extensions, lifts, and tints, and brow waxing, tinting, and lamination.
Beyond The Boogie Dance Company | 604 Valley Road
Beyond the Boogie Dance Company has a myriad of classes for students that range from six months old to adults. Classes include ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, acrobatics, and step. This business also hosts dance parties ranging from $30 to $50, which include dance, tumble, art + game classes, food and drinks, and more.
Read More: A List of Women-Owned Businesses to Support in Montclair
Blue Counseling + Wellness Center | 1 Upper Mountain Avenue
Blue Counseling + Wellness Center is a center for nutrition counseling and relationship, mental health, and sex therapy services. This spot also has workshops and brands to shop from.
Brick City Vegan | 362 Bloomfield Avenue
Newark-based restaurant Brick City Vegan is located at 362 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. Essex County entrepreneur Adenah Bayoh (also behind Cornbread Farm-to-Table, which is right next door) is behind this creative concept, which features modern takes on classic Southern dishes, in addition to standbys like grain bowls and salads.
Caribbean Touch | 318 Orange Road
Caribbean Touch is a classic in the area and a go-to spot for the best in cuisine from our tropical neighbors. Options for outdoor dining are available, however, most customers choose to enjoy the meals via takeout service.
Cornbread | 362 Bloomfield Avenue
Cornbread is co-owned by local entrepreneurs Adenah Bayou and Zadie B. Smith. There are three other Cornbread locations throughout New Jersey and New York, and the menu features dishes like the signature homemade cornbread, fried chicken, fried fish, wings, ribs, baked chicken, mac-and-cheese, and potato salad, among other dishes.
Creative+ | 101 Park Street, 3rd Floor
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Creative+ is a networking space in Montclair that has spaces for public use and private renting, in addition to all sorts of fun events. at this business, locals will find different rooms great for networking, including the Watering Hole, the Lounge, the Office, and The Room of Requirement, which is a studio and office space.
Crockett’s Fish Fry | 162 Bloomfield Avenue
There truly is nothing like fried food. Add it with classic soul-food favorites on the side and there are bound to be happy eaters. Crockett’s Fish Fry takes all the best seafood from tilapia to whitings — and fries them up to perfection. While the menu may be simple, the taste is anything but.
Drs. Barnes + Carter | 321 Orange Road
Dr. Barnes and Carter, part of BNC Eyecare Group, handle all things eyes. The testimonials on the website speak for themselves and showcase the mission behind the work. Both Barnes and Carter strive to provide the best in eye care and the most extensive list of services.
Epiphany Blue | 26 Park Street, Suite 2523
Those in need of an event planner for a wedding, birthday, office party, and everything in between can turn to Epiphany Blue, an event planner company in Montclair. This business specializes in corporate, employee engagement + wellness, and youth + community outreach events.
The Glass Touch Interiors | Online
In the world of Pinterest and Instagram, craving a home that is picture-perfect is a dream for many. Making it a reality can be the tricky part. That is where Britney, owner, and designer behind The Glass Touch Interiors comes into play. From creating office space that will make any business person feel like a boss to making an oasis out of a bedroom, she is the go-to for luxury interior needs.
Honor You Memorial Printing | 447 Orange Road
Honoring the life of your loved one is this spot’s top priority, as per its website. Honor You Memorial Printing offers memorial prayer cards, funeral programs, DVD montages, acknowledgment cards, and much more. This business also has an online memorial garden which “allows loved ones and family from all over the world to be able to access the funeral programs, read the obituary, and see the pictures honoring their memory,” according to the business’s website.
Image Dermatology | 51 Park Street
Dr. Jeanine Downie is not only a businesswoman with her own practice, but she is also nationally recognized by numerous media outlets. She holds a dermatology license in New York, New Jersey, and California, as well as degrees from Tufts University, American University, and SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn. She is also heavily involved with leading organizations such as The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, The American Academy of Dermatology, The Women’s Dermatologic Society, and The Skin Cancer Foundation.
Jade Alycia Inc. + Jade Alycia Beauty | Online
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Founded by Jade Webber, Jade Alycia Inc. is an accessories brand introducing a custom fusion of couture techniques and Parisian street style for those who live sustainably. It carries one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, handbags, headwear, and more. Jade also founded Jade Alycia Beauty, a beauty brand that serves sensitive skin types using all-natural vegan-friendly skincare products for men and women.
Jefferson’s Cafe | 88 Maple Avenue
Jefferson’s Cafe is family-owned and serves up Southern cuisine with a twist. It describes its food as “made with love, culture, + history.” The menu includes dishes like Mr. J’s Famous Fried Chicken, salmon cakes, and fried catfish.
Johanna Howard Home | 15 Gardiner Place
The origin of this home and design brand hails all the way from Sweden. As a young girl, Johanna Howard found her love for handwork and crafting by watching her mother create Scandinavian clothing designs. After schooling in the States, she took her love of design over to the home industry. Her store now houses handcrafted pillows, throws, candles, and more.
Johari | 76 Church Street
Fittings for bras, lingerie, and swimsuits can be a unique experience, to say the least. Johairi has been working for over 20 years to make this shopping trip one that is empowering and exciting for women. For anyone looking for top-quality undergarments or a boost of confidence in clothes, check out this local establishment.
Keycuts | 20 Church Street Unit #5
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Keycuts in Montclair, owned by Zane Keyes, was the first black-owned barbershop to open on Church Street. This beloved spot won The Montclair Girl’s Best Barbershop for 2024, which means it’s a definite must-try in the Montclair area. Zane, who has been a practicing barber for 17 years, specializes in hair and beards. Aside from its founder, Keycuts has a wonderful team of six behind its shop. To book an appointment, see here.
Kika Stretch Studios | 255 Bellevue Avenue
Having a body free of stress and pain sounds like the most perfect thing. Kika Stretch Studios is here for just that. Stretching sessions can improve flexibility and posture, enhance energy and mental clarity, and provide for a better feeling body overall. Memberships are available as well as flexible pricing options.
Martin’s Home For Service Inc. | 48 Elm Street
Martin’s Home For Service Inc. has served the Montclair community since 1952, when Robert B. Martin, Funeral Director, and Lilian L. Martin opened this spot. Robert Charles Martin, who passed in 2015, eventually took over the family business, and now his wife Richelle Williams runs the home. Among others, Martin’s Home For Service Inc. offers funeral, custom, and personalized services.
Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant | 515 Bloomfield Avenue
It can sometimes be difficult to find a restaurant that serves authentic cuisine, that is delicious and will please both vegans and non-vegans alike. That is until you’ve tried Mesob. With only the finest quality in meats, seafood, vegetables, and more, this eatery serves up Ethiopian favorites. Dishes from this country are known for their flavors and spices, an element Mesob takes seriously and is included in every menu item.
Mint Family Daycare + Services Inc | 46 South Park Street
Rolda Mitchell has been the owner + director of Mint Daycare since 1997 and has been caring for children for over 22 years. The daycare is located next to Canterbury Park.
Montclair Brewery | 101 Walnut Street
Leo and Denise are not just husband and wife, they are co-owners of Montclair Brewery, a business that started as an at-home passion project. For over 13 years, Leo was brewing batches of beer in his home for gifts. The duo formally established their business in 2014 and then moved this endeavor out of their home and into the microbrewery and tasting room space in 2018. Visit the brewery in person, opt for curbside pick-up, or grab some friends for a virtual tasting event. Montclair Brewery is also opening up a new East Orange brewery soon — you can read all about that here.
Montclair Diner | 613 Valley Road
New Jersey and diners are already a match made in heaven. Enter owner Eliot Mosby and Chef Gus Moya, a duo even better than the one formerly mentioned. These two are known on the local food scene and bring expertise from their previous work with other diners in the area. The Montclair Diner was taken over by Mosby in 2019 and has been thriving ever since. Old favorites stayed on the menu while new creations have found their way into the hearts of old and new customers alike. This diner shot to fame when Mosby took his “Whoopi Waffle” creation on The View to celebrate Whoopi Goldberg’s birthday.
Montclair Flowers + Gifts | 324 Orange Road
Flowers are a token of love for any occasion from birthdays to sympathy. Show your love to friends, family, co-workers, significant others, and more with a beautiful bouquet from Montclair Flowers and Gifts. In addition to putting a smile on your loved one’s face, Montclair Flowers and Gifts is committed to helping local florists and making a difference in the business.
Montclair Pediatric Dental Care | 31 Valley Road
Oral health for children is extremely important as it is often linked to other health issues if not made a top priority. At Montclair Pediatric Dental, Dr. Tyra Manso has made her practice prevention-focused. Each patient receives a custom dental plan to ensure a healthy smile. Parents, this is an office that is very kid-friendly and aims to have them running in for check-ups.
My Little Palms Soft Play | Mobile Location
In October 2020, Karlene Palmer-Mcleod established My Little Palms Soft Play, a rental company that provides play equipment for children from zero to five years old. This Montclair-based company provides multiple packages that feature all kinds of play equipment that stimulate children’s motor skills and movement, increase their ability to engage and learn via play and assist with developmental needs. Karlene’s business provides delivery to NYC and New Jersey residents.
Nishuane Group | 105 Grove Street
Nishuane Group is a Montclair-based urban planning firm that specializes in economic and community development, housing, historic preservation, land use regulation, and redevelopment planning. Nishuane Group utilizes “critical thinking, innovation, and customization to service the unique planning needs of each client and approach every project with a fusion of dynamism, resourcefulness, skill, and experience,” as per its website.
Polished-Montclair | 190A Bloomfield Avenue
Staying polished (pun intended) is important for self-care. Being sure the salon has great service while ensuring safety for its customers is even more important. Enter Polished, a nail studio in Montclair that checks all the boxes. Owners Marilyn and Michael have created a relaxing atmosphere and quality service. There is an extensive list of services available including standard manicures and pedicures, gel polish, SNS powder, ombre design, and more.
The Queen’s Quarters | Online
Shoppers can find handmade items for women, homes, offices, and prayer rooms. The brand carries custom home decor pieces such as crosses, trays, coaster sets, artwork, and more. This small business was founded by artist Terry Webber, a born and raised Montclarion.
Randy Lange | 2 South Willow Street
Randy and Ricardo, owners of Randy Lange, specialize in destination wedding photography + cinematography and know how to “[capture] the raw, unfiltered moments that make love unforgettable,” as per its website. Ricardo is a New Jersey native and Randy is from Germany. Their backgrounds are evident in the work they produce, which is inspired by the “richness of European culture, the interplay of light and shadow, and the timeless elegance of architecture.”
Rose + Co. Candle Makers | Online
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The saying goes that “the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.” In this case, this is completely correct. Rose, daughter of Johanna Howard Home, is running a successful handcrafted business just like her parents. At just 17 years old, Rose is creating sweet-smelling scents that are eco-friendly and dye-free. Beyond being good for the environment and easy on those living with allergies, a portion of the proceeds from Rose and Co. candles supports charities championing girls’ education.
Roux Royale Beauty Bar | 460 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 208
Self-proclaimed as “Montclair’s #1 Beauty Enhancement Spa,” Roux Royale Beauty Bar offers body contouring, massage, eyelash, teeth whitening, and facial services, as well as med spa services like injectables, laser, and weight loss. This spot also has a juice bar that sells cold pressed detox juice.
Saveur Creole | 131 Grove Street
Sharing food is sharing culture. That is exactly what is happening daily at Saveur Creole, a modern-day restaurant serving the best in this style of Caribbean cooking. Dishes that would be expected to be on a creole menu such as chicken etouffee are present as well as dishes for vegan diners such as a Haitian legume.
Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts | 10 Erie Street
For owner Sharon Miller, dance is the most compelling form of art. She shares her expertise, discipline, and leadership with her students at her namesake studio daily. In addition to dance classes and performing arts programming, the studio is available for parties and rentals.
She Imagined Sweets | 147 Valley Road
Zuirrae McKinney, a Bloomfield resident and lifelong baker, is the culinary mastermind behind She Imagined Sweets. Zuirrae’s bakery specializes in bite-sized cheesecakes in flavors like cookies + cream, NY-style strawberry, blueberry, candy bar, and more. She Imagined Sweets also sells chocolates, jarred cobblers, brownies, Tea Forte Teas, and lemonade.
Sofistafunk The Skirt Co. | 206 Bellevue Avenue
When looking to make a fashion statement, Sofistafunk is the place to go. “Here at Sofistafunk, our respect for the voluminous Skirt is unwavering and designed as a reminder that we are empowered to do great things as we offer of ourselves to empower another,” says owner Arlinda. The wide hooped skirts have outfitted the everyday woman and celebrities alike.
Spidey’s House | 33-39 Greenwood Avenue
Spidey’s House on Greenwood Avenue is a kickboxing school providing private, adult, and kids classes. Dwayne Holman (DJ), local Montclair resident, is the owner of this spot and a professional kickboxer + boxer. DJ recently won the ISKA North America World Champion Belt.
Stellar Smile Center | 39 The Crescent
Dr. Jackson is a Jersey girl through and through so it only made sense she open her practice in Montclair. After graduating from NJIT and UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School she completed her residency at JFK Medical Center in Edison. Her lists of services include preventative and general care, cosmetic procedures, and restorative services.
Styled Blu | Online
Events are created to make lasting memories. Owner Stephanie Volpe aims to do just that with her event planning business Styled Blu. Her catalog contains event planning for nonprofits, corporations, private events, and more. In addition to crafting events, Stephanie also styles and sells home products.
Sweet T’s Southern Eatery | 387 Bloomfield Avenue
This spot prides itself on healthy, authentic, pork-free Southern eats. Whether you’re craving cornbread, mac + cheese, chicken + waffles, or something else, Sweet T’s has you covered. Owned and operated by Dre Perrin and Tonza Houston, alongside their chef, Chef Carlos Swepson, this team puts their love of soul food into every dish.
Well in Montclair | 105 Grove Street, Suite 17
Well in Montclair is a minority and woman-owned wellness practice. Founder Cathy Stephenson has been in the wellness industry since 2005. Fast forward to 2022, she started up Well in Montclair to help individuals of the Montclair community in their wellness paths to reach their high potential in their lifestyles with treatments and resources.
Wyanoke Builders | 7 Oak Place
Having construction work happening either at work or at home can be bothersome at times. Luckily, Wyanoke specializes in taking the headache out of pesky reconstruction work. With a focus on commercial, residential, and millwork, the professionals at Wyanoke are skilled in every area possible and allow for a seamless process. Follow along on Instagram for aesthetically pleasing projects sure to convince followers that work is needed in the space.
The Xperience Studio | 258 Park Street
The Xperience Studio in Montclair is a black-owned and female-led health and wellness business that offers “an intimate space that is welcoming, instructors who empower, and a community that supports every step of your fitness journey,” as per its website. Owner Kenyanna Bell opened this spot in 2024. Along with curated classes and personalized services for its clients, this boutique fitness studio provides cardio, barre, pilates, strength training, yoga, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The Xperience Studio will also offer training programs for long-distance runs and triathlon sprints in the near future.
Bloomfield
Add Pilates | 239 Glenwood Avenue
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Owner Tracy Kelly was interested in fitness well before her start in the world of Pilates. Growing up, Kelly competed in track and field. Long after she hung up her cleats and worked in the fashion industry, it was a life-changing diagnosis that introduced her to Pilates. Now, Kelly’s passion is a lifestyle for her as the owner of Add Pilates, a studio where she teaches courses and shares her desire to help new mothers, particularly those dealing with postpartum issues.
Ahh-Land Woman Herbals LLC | Online
Gloria A. Brown started Ahh-Land Woman Herbals LLC, a herbal apothecary brand, to “help improve the health and well-being of people in the community,” as per the business’s website. Bloomfield locals can find all sorts of products like lotions, creams, salves, aromatherapy items, and more. See more about this business here.
B + W Sweets | Online
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B + W Sweets is a Bloomfield-based bakery that sells made-to-order cookies and cakes, including the viral vintage heart cake. To inquire about an order, see this link.
Casa De Flora Bar | 75 Washington Street
Casa De Flora Bar is a luxury cafe-meets-flower shop that serves up lattes, cappuccinos, coffees, Espresso, lemonade refreshers, cronuts, cupcakes, salads, sandwiches, and of course — fresh flowers. The space is owned by floral designer Maritza Walton who describes the venue as “an upscale space [with] beautiful ceiling pink floral installs and gorgeous Instagrammable moments.”
Cheesecakes by Jacinda | Food Delivery Service
Cheesecakes on their own are a decadent and gourmet dessert. Add in Jacinda’s flair and it’s even more special. Cookies, cannolis, Oreos, and more are added to these special treats. These desserts are available in full-size cheesecakes, mini cheesecakes, and individually wrapped sizes. Contact Jacinda via email to place an order at [email protected].
Duly Organized | Home Organization Service
Duly Organized provides full-service home organization and helps take the stress out of getting organized. The business helps locals transform their environment “from a tumultuous sea into a safe harbor.” For over 20 years, Gervonna – the owner of Duly Organized, has worked as a professional home organizer and certified Health + Life Coach. Her whole approach is to help you prioritize your needs and deliver home organization systems tailored to the way you want to live.
F45 Training Bloomfield | 28 Broad Street
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F45 Training Bloomfield is a fitness studio that’s specifically designed to provide a functional full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength, + endurance. Each 45-minute workout aims to burn about 750 calories.
Ikuzi Dolls | Online Shop
Growing up, the founder and mastermind behind Ikuzi Dolls Ozi only had one Black doll and it did not resemble her. Fast forward to motherhood and she was still having a tough time finding dolls that reflected the variety of skin tones of her and her daughters. She took matters into her own hands and Ikuzi Dolls was born. Now, finding dolls with a wide variety of skin tones, hair textures, and more is made easy.
In the Company of Yum | Pop-Up Shop
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Calling all pie lovers. In the Company of Yum is the spot for all your greatest pie needs. The menu consists of a variety of pies, including savory, sweet, and keto options. Traditional flavors such as apple and berry are available as well as more unique flavors like mocha creme and peanut butter chocolate.
Kitchen Tune Up | 1285 Broad Street, Unit 2
This kitchen remodeling business has locations all over New Jersey, including in Bloomfield on Broad Street. It offers cabinet redooring, painting, and resurfacing, custom cabinets, countertops, and more.
Kolbys Styling Salon | 595 Bloomfield Avenue
Kolbys Styling Salon is a Bloomfield barbershop that has been in business since 2005 and services men, women, and children with all types of hair.
Little Helpers Childcare | 87 Broughton Avenue
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Little Helpers is a Bloomfield-based childcare center that serves children two to five and a half years old. This childcare prides itself on its high-quality program and nurturing environment and is “dedicated to the growth, development, and well-being of each child,” as per its website.
Lovelee Art Studios | 172 Broad Street
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Owner Lovelee Tang had dubbed herself a #MommaonaMission. She is taking her passion for mixed media arts (think paints and recycled materials) and the performing arts to empower children. Lovelee Art Studios provides classes and programming virtually including an after-school enrichment program and a preschool art club.
Montclair Learning Center | 57 Park Street
Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) studies are crucial to children’s grades K-8. The Montclair Learning Center is a small independent firm specializing in these courses. Executive Director Christiane Agkpo is a mom of four herself who wanted to provide affordable and quality education to children. She is doing just that. Outside of courses, the MLC hosts birthday parties, and games for kids.
RISE Fitness | 53 Farrand Street
This Bloomfield fitness spot is run by Ayo Fala. RISE has accrued over 12 years of experience working with all sorts of people, both those serious about pursuing fitness and those looking to stay healthy. It specializes in Strength & Endurance training that’s both progressive and sustainable.
Salon Femi | 1107 Broad Street
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This beauty salon provides styles, colors, blowouts, and more. Owner Kenya Cephas has dedicated herself to her passion — hair styling and care — over the past 25 years. Back in 2009, she was voted a Nioxen expert. Kenya personalizes her approach to each client to ensure everyone gets the best care.
Save + Rave Consignment | 615 Bloomfield Avenue
Save and Rave Consignment is owned by Alonya, a woman who loves both fashion and the arts. Save and Rave sells women’s new, vintage, and gently loved clothing + accessories — and it’s packed full of fun and unique finds.
See More: A List of Black-Owned Businesses to Support in Hoboken + Jersey City
Sugaring NYC | 56 Broad Street
Sugaring NYC is an organic waxing and lash salon that has Brazilian, body, and face sugaring, as well as v-facials, brow lamination, and lash lifts for women and men.
Sweet Trail Vegan Cafe | 170 Broad Street
This vegan bakery serves up lots of yummy treats. With cookies, brownies, cinnamon buns, iced coffee, and more on the menu, Sweet Trail lets you indulge in a way that’s good for you + good for the planet.
Bonus
Luxurious Wellniss | 557 Nassau Street Suite 3, Orange
This Orange-based wellness spot caters “to the often overlooked needs of women and men of color in the wellness sector,” according to its website. This spot provides products and services specifically tailored to melanated skin, from facial cleansers to exfoliants to collagen therapy to acne facials.
6 Baby-Friendly Activities in Montclair + Beyond
The Montclair area is a popular place for young families to settle, with new little ones regularly welcomed. It’s common to see strollers dotting the streets or taking over local parks. If you’re a new parent or expecting, you may be wondering what to do with the latest addition to your family beyond the walks and playgrounds – and we’ve got you covered. Read on for a list of local baby + me activities for parents of tots under one in Montclair and beyond.
Take a Fitness or Yoga Class
While getting back into movement can feel daunting, many programs in the area make it fun and easy to bring the littles along. FIT4MOM is a nationwide postnatal fitness program that has a chapter in Wayne. Classes meet at various indoor and outdoor locations, like Dave Waks Memorial Park and Willowbrook Mall, depending on the weather. One of its signature classes, Stroller Strides, is a 60-minute total-body workout with strength, cardio, and core training, all while engaging the little ones in a stroller.
Read More: A List of Kids’ Boutiques in Montclair + Beyond
Move House (260 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair), the new workout studio in Upper Montclair, has a weekly postpartum class taught by the studio’s founder, Marissa Herman. The Wednesday class moves slower than other classes, great for new mamas looking to get back into fitness. Babies are welcome at the class until they are mobile, stationed on bouncers or blankets while mom gets her sweat on.
There are also several classes for yogis and mini yogis, such as Baby + Me Yoga at Montclair B.A.B.Y. (113 Walnut Street) on Tuesdays and Fridays. This class focuses on strengthening the spiritual, emotional, and physical bond between parent and child (four weeks to crawling). The class also includes infant massage and various exercises that assist in developing babies’ motor skills. The Mindfulnest Co. (9 Bloomfield Avenue, North Caldwell) runs a similar class for what they call Hatchlings on Fridays, as does Indigo Yoga (351 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell) on Wednesdays. Or head to Yoga Mechanics (107 Forest Street, Montclair) for its special prenatal and postpartum yoga series on Friday afternoons.
Make Music
Music is a great way to engage and bond with babies of all ages. At Baby In Tune, led by Vered Benhorin at Montclair B.A.B.Y. (113 Walnut Street), parents learn how to use music to establish a routine, soothe, and communicate with their baby. Classes incorporate elements of therapy for the parent through music and discussion. Vered leads classes for two age groups on Tuesday mornings.
Music Together is a global program with chapters in Montclair and West Essex. The Babies class, which meets at various times and locations, brings together a supportive parenting community and shares key information about baby development and musical milestones. Another program, Music with Michaela, was created by a local music teacher, performer, songwriter, and mama during the winter months of the pandemic. She now hosts weekly in-person musical sessions in Montclair (198 Bellevue Avenue) and West Caldwell (128 Smull Avenue).
Participate in Storytime
Local bookshops and libraries run story sessions for babies, which are often free events for the community. Watchung Booksellers (44 Fairfield Street, Montclair) holds these in its Kids’ Room every Monday, led by a bookseller, Montclair Speech Therapy, or a community volunteer. The Collective Bookstore (460 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona) recently started a story hour for little ones on Thursdays.
Most libraries in the area hold regular baby-friendly events, such as the Baby Storytime on Thursdays at Montclair Library’s Bellevue Avenue Branch (185 Bellevue Avenue). Here, guests sing songs, recite nursery rhymes, and read board books geared toward little ones. Verona Library (17 Gould Street, Verona) hosts various storytimes and singalongs appropriate for babies, such as its weekly Read, Romp + Rhyme event on Wednesday mornings, as does Bloomfield Library (90 Broad Street) and Cedar Grove Library (1 Municipal Plaza), among others.
Join a Support Group
The early days of parenting can feel isolating. Joining a support group (where babies are welcome!) can be a great way to get out of the house, build community, and start making playmates. Licensed psychotherapist Amy Edelstein leads first and second-time support groups at Montclair B.A.B.Y. (113 Walnut Street), where parents join together in a safe space to meet new parents, share stories, and discuss various topics related to the transition into parenthood. At Flor da Vida (21 Grove Avenue, 2nd floor, Verona), a women’s wellness center, moms gather bi-weekly for group support. Led by Christine Becerra, a mom of three and experienced doula, this group is about building connections and providing baby-friendly activities for the littles.
For those looking for more in-depth weekly resets, Milkwell (1285 Broad Street, 2nd Floor, Bloomfield), which is a Bloomfield-based lactation center, runs a mini-retreat series called NOURISH. These sessions allow moms to put down roots for three hours — starting with group introductions and reflections, shifting towards postpartum and infant care education, and ending with homemade nourishing vegan and gluten-free soup for lunch. There are breastfeeding and pumping support items, bounce balls, and extra arms to help with babies.
Engage in a Playspace
Gyms and spaces built for kids start to welcome babies around four to nine months of age, depending on the location. Kidville (516 Valley Road, Montclair) hosts a Rockin’ Railroad class that uses puppets and instruments, exploring a different musical genre each week through tempo, rhythm, word recognition, and sound identification. At Oh! Canary (237 Lorraine Avenue, Montclair), a children’s art studio, babies can join an art and sensory playgroup featuring an engaging selection of baby-friendly activities for open play.
Starting at four months, babies can join The Little Gym of Montclair’s (1 Greenwood Avenue) Bug class, which lays the groundwork for overall functional development and promotes early social and physical skills. At Livingston Gym (615 South Livingston Avenue, Suite 5), babies starting at nine months can join its Music + Movement class for a blend of song and dance using sound-making toys, sensory objects, and games.
See More: The Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Hoboken + Jersey City
BYOB(aby) to the Arts
While most of the above outings are geared toward babies, there are also some adult activities around town where babies can come along for the ride. The Clairidge (486 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair) hosts a matinee once a month, where parents can see a newly released film in an environment friendly to caregivers of new babies. Crying babies and nursing mothers are welcome. To accommodate families, the theater dims the lights, moderates the volume, turns on closed captions, and allows guests to move around as needed. Wine + Design (1 Greenwood Avenue #101, Montclair) also has events where parents and caregivers are encouraged to bring babies to a painting class. Similarly, Bleu Blanc (127 Valley Road, Unit D, Montclair), a new pottery painting studio in the area, is available for private events where babies are welcome.
