The Connections Bernard's Ridge Edition November 2021 - January 2022

theconnectionsnj.com HOLIDAY CHEER PAGE 26 "It doesn’t cost anything to be kind" ~ Donna Reina Production Coordinator "‘Tis the season to bring out all your closeted love, sharing, caring, warmth and hospitality." ~ Jody Varvaro Production Coordinator BARBER SHOP FAMILY HAIRCUTTERS 95 MAIN STREET PEAPACK, NJ 07977 908-234-1971 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK WWW.CONNIESBARBERSHOP.COM Schedule Your Appointments ONLINE! Men Women Children Cuts & Styles You’re Not in Kansas Anymore boutique adapts to meet the new trends and lifestyles For twenty years, You’re Not in Kansas had cultivated designers and artists to offer an alternative to “fast fashion” carrying unique pieces that fit clients’ style and personality. And then COVID-19 hit in March of last year. Like so many other small busi- nesses, owner Barbara Chupick had to make some quick decisions. The store closed for a few months, but Chupick stayed connected through social media, emails and through conversations around town. Her loyal following knew she’d open again, the question was when. What’s made “Kansas” such an enduring and fun presence in local fashion is the high degree of consul- tation customers receive when they visit. They know they’ll see something new upon each visit, and know they will find what works with their per- sonal style. “You have a good eye,” many visitors say, and they tell their friends. The authentic word-of-mouth excitement that the store has always enjoyed, in fact, helped it reopen lat- er in the year. Now the store is positioned for what’s likely to be a very different hol- iday shopping season with major con- sumer brands unsure of their supply. For a boutique, the challenge is to spot trends early and find niche de- signers to match them. While some of Chupick’s favorite designers remain on pause, or are held up by import is- sues, others such as high-end “wear- able art” purveyor, An Ren, are back. Curated alongside Ren and others, are accessories and jewelry at every price point. You might find the per- fect earrings in the display case at $30, or chance upon something en- tirely unique such as the large state- ment-piece rings featuring semi-pre- cious jewels signed by John Paul Gaultier that sold out quickly last winter. With both the changes in what’s being designed and available, and the changes in lifestyle due to the Pandemic, “Kansas” is adapting by focusing orders and collections, and by stocking the store more frequently beyond the four distinct fashion sea- sons. There are nods to the casual trend. “I never thought I’d say this, but I just displayed a collection of graphic t-shirts,” Chupick said of the early Holiday arrivals she’s received from designers. You’re Not in Kansas Anymore is located at 35 Perry Street in Chester. Store hours are currently Friday and Saturday from 11 to 5:30 and Sunday from Noon until 5:30. Extended Holi- day hours to be announced soon. Call 973-945-9133 for more information or visit the store’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kansasinnj. You’re Not in Kansas Anymore 35 Perry Street Chester, NJ 07930 973-945-9133 C ommends C onnection What’s made “Kansas” such an enduring and fun presence in local fashion is the high degree of consultation customers receive when they visit. Curated alongside Ren and others, are accessories and jewelry at every price point. You might find the perfect earrings in the display case at $30, or chance upon something entirely unique such as the large statement- piece rings featuring semi- precious jewels signed by John Paul Gaultier that sold out quickly last winter. since2000 A luxury boutique featuring Elegantly casual Effortlessly stylish (with an edge of course) Crazily affordable clothing, jewelry and accessories Jewelry by Alexis Bittar, Sorrelli, AnneMarie-Chagnon, Zenzi, KMO, Pono and many more Clothing by AnRen, Luna luz, Luii, Liverpool, Petit Pois, Snowskins, Gracia, Adore …to name a few and “that impossible gift” 35 Perry Stree t,Chester,NJ 07930 kansa sinch ester@gmail.com 973-945-9 13 3 • 908-879-8007 OpenThurs day - Sunday • Call for Hours Est.2000 Amazing Gifts For Everyone On Your List! Place your Holiday Orders: Hanukkah by Mon., Nov. 22nd & Christmas by Wed., Dec. 15th 4 4