Along with the many places to eat in South Orange, the Village offers a variety of stores for students to shop at and enjoy.
1. Rocky’s Crystals and Minerals
Rocky’s Crystals and Minerals store is a gift boutique that offers a selection of minerals and new age spiritual gifts at affordable prices.
“One of the largest selections of crystals and minerals in the New Jersey and New York tri-state area,” Rocky’s website said. “A candyland for crystal rock hobbyists and collectors.”
Jillian Crain, a sophomore social and behavioral sciences major, said she bought jewelry and crystals from the store, including a carnelian sun necklace.
“I would definitely recommend Rocky’s Crystals,” Crain said. “You don’t have to be an expert with crystals; you can easily be new to all of it.”
2. Little Shop of Hip Hop
Little Shop of Hip Hop is also located in the Village. It is a vintage store that sells second-hand items reminiscent of the hip hop movement.
Reese Brancato, a freshman computer science major, said he felt welcomed and “at home” when he visited the store.
“I bought a shirt from there solely because I loved the artist,” Brancato said. “I definitely will be returning with the intent of buying even more stuff next time.”
3. Garden of Edith
Garden of Edith is a florist in the Village that sells flower bouquets and gifts for any occasion.
Bella Rosario, a sophomore biology major, said she purchased a flower bouquet from there to send to her mom back home.
“She called me crying because of the beautiful flowers,” Rosario said. “That was my first time at a florist, and I can say for a fact that I will be returning in the future.”
4. Sadie’s Boutique
Sadie’s Boutique offers ethically produced women and men’s clothing and home goods from nearby suppliers. The store donates 1% of every sale to different charities that support women and children, racial equality, and people with disabilities.
Julia Gallo, a sophomore diplomacy and international relations double major, said she loves the environment of the boutique.
“You can’t get clothes like the ones Sadie’s sells anywhere else,” Gallo said. “Every piece is unique and I like knowing not everyone has the same clothes as me.”
5. Cafe Word BookStore
The Cafe Word BookStore sells spiritual-based books and gifts for students to enjoy. The store also holds events like live music, impromptu poetry, and book signings.
Neyha Ramani, a sophomore nursing major, said she visited the store with her friends that also like to read.
“I didn’t buy anything, but I loved the bookstore vibe I got as soon as I walked in,” she said. “It’s a good place if you just want to relax and chill with a good book.
Serena Davis can be reached at serena.davis@student.shu.edu.
