June 28, 2023

BBQ BONUS: “The recipe is simple: freshly made food, local ingredients, and special homemade sauces. We are offering great BBQ, inspired by our chef, ‘Mama Sally,’ along with the well-known hospitality that characterizes Local Greek,” explains Tony Kanterakis, owner of Local Greek Restaurant Group and the new Local BBQ in Hopewell. Shown is chef and catering director “Mama Sally” Kornegay.

By Jean Stratton

Tony Kanterakis, owner of Local Greek Restaurant Group, knows what works.

“Food brings people together, and that has always been our target in the Local Greek Family. That is what we want to keep doing by adding Local BBQ.” more

June 7, 2023

MUSIC APPRECIATION: “At our Summer Festival, we try to broaden the participants’ minds by including various speakers and lecturers as well as pianists and piano pedagogues. All classes and events will be open to the public, and we hope everyone can visit us, see the metamorphosis of the young pianists, and experience beautiful music-making with us.” John Perry and Mina Hirobe-Perry, directors of the John Perry Academy of Music, are shown with Seiji, their 6-year-old son.

By Jean Stratton

“We are the music-makers, And we are the dreamers of dreams.”

—Arthur William Edgar O’Shaughnessy

Something special will be available in July for all those who love to make music and for those who may be dreaming of doing so someday.

The John Perry Academy of Music (JPA) is scheduling its International Summer Music Festival July 2 through July 14 at The College of New Jersey, located at 2000 Pennington Road, Ewing Township.

It is the first time the prestigious event will take place in New Jersey. After many years in Los Angeles, John Perry and Mina Hirobe-Perry, directors of the Academy, have relocated to Princeton.

“A festival of this type offers the opportunity for the talented music student to immerse himself/herself in an intense music performance program without the distractions of other subjects, other classes, and all other competing demands on their time,” explains John Perry. “There is no question that one walks away from this experience greatly enriched and knowledgeable about the art of music.” more

May 31, 2023

HELPING HANDS: “It’s very important to provide fresh seasonal food to families who need it. This is our mission. Our primary focus is for families with children in Princeton Public Schools.” Shown are the team members who guide and operate the Princeton Mobile Food Pantry. From left are Wendy Wilton, Debbie Bronfeld, Liliana Morenilla, Dafna Kendal, Shilpa Pai, Sharon Litvinsky, Mandy Arshan, Amy Lansky, and Jennifer Lea Cohan. Missing from the photo is Jackie Swain.

By Jean Stratton

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, that’s the only thing that ever does.”

—Margaret Mead

How to translate that conviction into action? Some people see a need and don’t know what to do about it. Some are unaware of the need. Others see the need and find ways to address it.

The last statement is the story of the Princeton Mobile Food Pantry (PMFP) and the remarkable team that created it, and continues to make it happen.

In 2007, Princeton resident and volunteer Liliana Morenilla became aware of students who did not have enough to eat.

“I was volunteering at Johnson Park Elementary School translating for Spanish-speaking parents,” she explains. “There was constant mention of food insecurity in their homes. One day, I had to separate two little ones who were fighting for a granola bar. What started the fight was that the kids never had snacks from home, and were hungry.” more

May 24, 2023

FINANCIAL FOCUS: “We lead with advice and planning, which allows us to understand each client’s full financial picture. With this knowledge, we can act in the most thoughtful way in accordance with each client’s best interest.” Elizabeth Walsh, Princeton regional director for Glenmede Trust Company, looks forward to introducing more clients to Glenmede’s expert financial services and solutions.

By Jean Stratton

These are challenging times in many ways. Peace of mind regarding financial worries, concerns, and decisions is something everyone wants and needs.

Elizabeth Walsh, Princeton regional director for Glenmede Trust Company, works hard to help clients move forward with that all-important peace of mind.

“We can help take that worry away from people,” she explains. “Our Princeton team works mainly with individuals and families. We help our clients wherever they are in life. Young families building their wealth, some setting up college funds, and others planning for retirement.”

Joining the firm in 2021, Walsh has had a lengthy career in wealth management, initially in New York City and now for decades in the Princeton area. A Princeton University graduate, she is very happy to be working within a stone’s throw of her alma mater at Glenmede’s 47 Hulfish Street location. more

May 17, 2023

SUCCESS STORY: “I think about who we are and what we offer. We are a place where people can come to be together, find special records and CDs, and talk about music.” Jon Lambert, owner of the popular Princeton Record Exchange, is proud of the store’s extraordinary selection of thousands of CDs, LPs, and DVDs, and of its long history and reputation.

By Jean Stratton

When you come to the Princeton Record Exchange, don’t be in a hurry. Plan to spend some time. It is totally intriguing!

Filled with thousands of CDs, LPs, DVDs, Blu-rays, and more, it offers every category of music, from rock and jazz to classical and country to blues and soul, rap and hip-hop, movie soundtracks, shows, and more. More than 100,000 titles in stock!

This is a special place. It has been rated a top record store in the U.S. by BuzzFeed, Time Magazine, Rolling Stone, CNN, USA Today, GQ, and the Wall Street Journal, and featured in many other publications. The New York Times is quoted as saying, “Customers come from as far away as Scotland and Japan or as close as around the corner.”

In this age of online shopping and digital messaging in every way, Princeton Record Exchange (known informally as PREX) is a bricks and mortar, walk-in store. Customers can browse, find something special for their collection, and share information with each other.

As it reports in its mission statement: “Princeton Record Exchange is dedicated to providing an alternative to the streaming services and online stores that have come to dominate the music and movie retailing world. We take pride in our low pricing, the high quality of our merchandise, and the depth of our selection.”

 more

May 3, 2023

FAMILY TRADITION: “We are set apart by our long history and experience, and we are a real family business. I am the third generation to be part of it, and my son Michael is the fourth.” Sarah Conte, owner of Perna’s Florist, Plant & Garden Center, is shown with her son and colleague Michael Conte in the entrance to the garden center amid a display of May flowers.

By Jean Stratton

“I may be an old man, but I am a young gardener.”

These words were written in his later years by Thomas Jefferson to a friend. Always ready to learn more, he knew that gardening could be wonderfully rewarding, and also remarkably challenging.

When planting a garden, whether it is a casual or serious undertaking, relying on the most reliable and experienced helpers to guide the process is a priority.

Perna’s Florist, Plant & Garden Center is such a resource. Located at 189 Washington Road in West Windsor since 1976, the longtime family business dates back even further. George Mazur, grandfather of Perna’s current owner Sarah Conte, opened Mazur’s Nursery in 1931. more

April 26, 2023

ALL DAY DINING: The Nassau Diner is open, and customers are enjoying the opportunity to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at this new establishment on Nassau Street.

By Jean Stratton

The coffee is hot, and the only thing kept in the freezer is our ice cream….Our curated classics are made from scratch, and elevated with fresh, quality ingredients.”

This is the report from The Nassau Diner, which opened last October at 82 Nassau Street. It is the one of the newest establishments owned by Genesis Hospitality Group. Headquartered in Hamilton, the company owns nine restaurants, bars, bakeries, inns, and boutique hotels in the area. In Princeton, the number includes The Peacock Inn, Chez Alice, Bread Boutique, Proof Pizza, and now The Nassau Diner.

“People love diners,” says Genesis director of hospitality Eben Copple, adding that diners bring back memories of fun times, and it is always good to have another informal eatery when you’re in the mood for something casual. more

April 19, 2023

CREATIVE CLOSETS: “We build closets that will make the best use of your space, and we work with closets of all sizes in all rooms in the house.” Rachel Webster, co-owner of Closets Redesigned, headquartered in West Trenton, is shown by a recently designed primary bedroom walk-in closet. A redesign of an existing closet in an older house, it features custom drawers. shelving, and hanging components. (Photo by Karin Belgrave).

By Jean Stratton

Where is that sweater? I need that green handbag — and where are those shoes?

If this sounds like a familiar stressful moment, you are not alone. Spending unavailable time searching for needed items is something that happens to many of us. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to clear the chaos and have everything organized in full view so that you can see it when you need it!

Fortunately, Rachel Webster, partner and co-owner of Closets Redesigned, is here to help you declutter your life with customized solutions. In partnership with Brett Margulis, owner of Innovative Commercial Interiors (ICI), she opened Closets Redesigned in 2021.

A Princeton native, Webster has a long history in design. Her interest in creating personal and inviting spaces began at an early age, she says. “As a young girl, I started to arrange things in my room. I wanted to do my room my way!” more

April 12, 2023

FITNESS FOCUS: “Our personal training options are perfect for those looking to have a workout tailored to their individual needs and goals. Our training sessions are far from cookie-cutter. Whether gaining muscle and increasing stamina or preparing for their first mud run, our clients will find the right class or personal training session to help them achieve their goals.” Alex Obe, owner of Iron Core Bootcamp, looks forward to helping all his clients reach their potential.

By Jean Stratton

Exercise is the foundation of youth!”

“And furthermore, it is never too late!”

These beliefs are integral to the operation of Iron Core Bootcamp, which Alex Obe opened in 2022.

Working hard, meeting challenges head on, and overcoming adversity are all part of his mindset, and he needed all of his stamina and determination to deal with what lay ahead for his new fitness center.

Obe had owned P.T.S. (Personal Training Studio) Health & Fitness Center on State Road for 13 years when he decided to sell it in 2019.

“I felt it was time for a change,” he explains. “I did want to continue in the fitness field, but just in a different direction.” more

April 5, 2023

OPTIMUM EYE CARE: “We are dedicated to providing each patient with the best care possible and an excellent office experience. We have high end state-of-the-art equipment, and we strive for perfection in every way.” Board certified ophthalmologist David Mostafavi M.D., founder of Mostafavi Eye Princeton, is shown with his wife Rachel Mostafavi, who is office manager and administrator.

By Jean Stratton

The advances in the equipment and technology surrounding ophthalmology care have been truly amazing.

As remarkable as they may be, however, the need for a skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced physician at the helm is crucial.

Patients in Princeton are glad to know that board certified ophthalmologist David Mostafavi M.D. is such a physician.

Founder of Mostafavi Eye Princeton, he opened his practice at 300 Witherspoon Street, Suite 203, in August 2022. It is located just to the rear of the popular Homestead Princeton furniture and gift store. more

March 29, 2023

IN THE ZONE: “Our parks are full of one-of-a-kind attractions designed to push your limits, allow you to fly higher, and just have tons and tons of fun! The only way to understand it is to come experience it. So rally your crew and let’s go!” This invitation is from Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Hamilton Township. Shown on the right is a photo of the popular Air Court, where players can practice trampoline-assisted soccer and basketball. This is just one of the many popular activities available every day.

By Jean Stratton

Fun is everywhere at Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Hamilton Township. This special place offers opportunities for kids and adults to fly high, float free, and just jump up and down on springy floors and ubiquitous trampolines.

And if that is not enough to keep you moving, you can also climb walls and towers, navigate obstacle courses, hit and miss at classic trampoline dodge ball, drop into thousands of foam-filled cubes, play trampoline-assisted soccer and basketball on the Air Court, and have endless fun with foam-filled Boulder Balls.

An independently owned franchise, Sky Zone opened in 2018 at 17 Quakerbridge Plaza Drive.

“We are set apart,” points out General Manager Joshua Harry. “There is nothing like us in Mercer County, and we have been very encouraged with the response. We see more and more people coming all the time, and we have lots of repeats.” more

March 22, 2023

EXCELLENCE IN ART: “Our mission is to bring exceptional quality instruction to artists working in the classical disciplines of drawing, painting, and sculpture. Our students maintain the link to an unbroken chain of training that began hundreds of years ago, and has been passed from teacher to student for generations.” Anna Neis, right, founder and director of the Princeton Academy of Art, and Kelsey Doherty, Academy manager of operations, look forward to helping students achieve their artistic potential.

By Jean Stratton

Works of art resonate with people in many ways. There is a unique communication between artist and beholder. The artist has sought to express his or her vision, and the viewer’s response and perception vary according to a whole range of life conditions and circumstances. Thus, it becomes a very personal, often thought-provoking, and even challenging experience.

Before an artist can create such a work of art, serious study, training, and application are required.

“Artists need more than surface knowledge to progress beyond natural ability and a sharp eye,” points out Anna Neis, founder and executive director of the Princeton Academy of Art (PAA). “Creativity and self-expression are vitally important forms of communication for an artist, but before reaching the point where they can define themselves with complexity, they have to know the building blocks. Learning visual art is similar to learning a verbal language or how to play an instrument. Students must practice. That is what we are here for.” more

GREAT GIFTS: “We want to offer clients more opportunities, including quality gifts for  every occasion and at varied price points,” says Anne Russell, Hamilton Home executive vice president for marketing and branding. She is excited about Hamilton Jewelers’ new division, Hamilton Home. Shown is a display of the wide range of items, including home decor and housewarming, entertainment and barware, wedding and baby gifts, and linens, all within a charming setting.

By Jean Stratton

A successful business always finds new ways to remain successful. It offers customers new opportunities, new choices, new items — even a new direction.

Hamilton Jewelers is a case in point. One of Princeton’s most successful businesses, it celebrated its 110th anniversary last year, and is renowned for its selection of high quality and unique jewelry.

Not only that, it is a true family business, with four generations of the Siegel family having been active participants in leading the business to success.

Located at 33 Witherspoon Street, its latest enterprise, Hamilton Home, opened in November of 2022, and offers an extensive array of home decor and gift items. more

March 8, 2023

TOP-NOTCH TENNIS: “There have been various local tennis camps, including Nike, in the past, but to bring the Rafa Nadal Academy Camp from Mallorca is truly something unique and special. We thought there was a need for a specialized tennis camp with proven methodology both on and off the court.” Marta Ramos is president of Athena Programs, which is partnered with the Rafa Nadal Academy in bringing the Academy’s special training program to The Lawrenceville School this summer. She is shown with a number of coaches from the Rafa Nadal Academy.

By Jean Stratton

Young tennis players are excited about a new upcoming opportunity this summer. The Rafa Nadal Academy Camp, in partnership with Athena Programs, will be on-site at The Lawrenceville School July 24 through July 29. The chance to improve their game and maximize their potential is awaiting them.

Headquartered in Mallorca, Spain, the Rafa Nadal Academy Camp now offers six locations at private schools in the U.S., including in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and now New Jersey. more

March 1, 2023

HEALTHY BENEFITS: “The hemp plant has more than 100 different chemical compounds. It can address a variety of health-related conditions. It is a natural, good, healthy way to help an array of problems.” Phil Rutman, owner of Native Ceuticals, is enthusiastic about his CBD (cannabidiol) products made from the hemp plant.

By Jean Stratton

“My goal is to educate people about the benefits of Native Ceuticals,” says Phil Rutman.

Owner of Native Ceuticals, located at 1273 Route 206 (State Road),  Montgomery Township, he looks forward to introducing people to the company’s  products, which he believes will improve health problems.

“I want to help people gain an understanding about the benefits of CBD (cannabiodiol) and these products,” he explains. “They have nothing to do with marijuana, do not cause a high, and are not addictive. There are multiple derivatives from hemp, offering a beneficial herbal alternative for treatment of many health problems. This is a growing industry. CBD has been legal since 2018.”  more

February 22, 2023

SUMMER SESSIONS: “I am looking forward to hearing and seeing the teachers and children learning, discovering, and working together through play both inside and outside on the YWCA grounds.” Tara O’Shea is the director of The Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center at YWCA Princeton, the Youth Program, and also head of the YW Summer Program.

By Jean Stratton

YWCA Princeton has a proud history. For more than a century, it has provided programs and activities for women and families. Established in 1922, it was originally located on Nassau Street, moving to its current site at 59 Paul Robeson Place in 1958.

Since the 1970s, the YWCA Princeton has offered summer programs for children, including both indoor and outdoor activities.

Tara O’Shea has been associated with the YW since 1996, and has served as head of the Summer Program since 2005, as well as overseeing The Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center at the YW, and the Youth Program.

This year the Summer Program will begin June 20, continuing through August 25. Girls and boys from age 2 and a half through 12 are eligible to participate, and the variety of activities will appeal to children of all ages, points out Haley Gorda, YWCA Princeton communications and marketing manager. more

February 15, 2023

PAVING POSSIBILITIES: “Calvary Paving & Sealcoating is an independent family-owned business. We are a full service asphalt paving company, and we treat your driveway as if it were our own,” says owner Jimmie Harrison. Shown is a recently completed driveway in the area.

By Jean Stratton

Even though it is February, the unusually warm temperatures hint of spring. Spring cleaning and home improvement projects come to mind, and it’s not too soon to consider the state of your driveway.

In the same way it affects roads, winter, with fluctuating cold and warm temperatures, can be hard on driveways. Especially if they are older, and haven’t had recent maintenance attention, wear and tear takes its toll. Cracks, crumbling, and rough patches can appear, not only lessening eye appeal, but even causing hardship on tires.

Jimmie Harrison, owner of Calvary Paving & Sealcoating, is ready to help! He has a long history in the paving business, having received hands-on training from his father and grandfather.

“I really started helping out when I was 4 years old,” he says with a smile. “I definitely started young!” more

February 8, 2023

FABULOUS FLORALS: “My arrangements are very personalized, truly one-of-a-kind. Everything is made in-house, and I always try to create something special for the customer.” Michael Piccioni, co-owner of Wildflowers of Princeton Junction, is pleased to create imaginative arrangements, such as those shown here, and he is proud of the firm’s exceptional and long-standing reputation.

By Jean Stratton

“To see a world in a grain of sand
And a heaven in a wildflower.”

—William Blake

Flowers are a gift on so many levels. Whether carefully planned as part of a backyard landscape, or blooming free and unrestrained in a meadow, or as artfully designed arrangements and bouquets created by professional florists, they are a continuing miracle of beauty and enjoyment

Especially appreciating this wonder of nature is expert horticulturalist Michael Piccioni. Co-owner with Ed Getty of Wildflowers of Princeton Junction, he has a long history in the floral industry.

Originally from Pottsville, Pa., he grew up in a family steeped in the natural world. “My grandfather, who emigrated from Italy, was a farmer, and I grew up surrounded by gardens, From the age of 10, I also helped out in my aunt’s flower shop, and it was all very natural to me.”

He went on to study horticulture at Penn State, and then worked in a flower shop in Philadelphia before he and Getty opened Wildflowers in 1985. Getty specializes in the administrative end of the business, as well as providing technical and lighting services at events. more

February 1, 2023

POSITIVE PLANNING: “My main purpose is to guide my clients to a positive financial outcome. For each client, I set up a personalized plan, and together, we revise it every year. With my experience, I try to help them achieve their goals.” Annie Hung-Scanga, CPA, MBA, CKA, owner and managing member of Atlantis Accounting, specializes in tax preparation, tax and financial planning, small business consulting, estate planning, and trusts. She looks forward to introducing new clients to her services.

By Jean Stratton

Peace of mind.

Who doesn’t wish for such a welcome state of well-being?

Every era, every age faces its own challenges, but right now, we seem to have our full share. Turmoil throughout the world, including severe political division right here at home; cultural unrest; climate change with its extreme weather patterns; uneasiness about new technology and where it is leading us; cost of living increases; growing disparities between rich and poor — the list goes on.

And the personal financial troubles. Waking up in the middle of the night worrying about feeding the family, paying the rent, having enough resources to send the children to college, trying to save money before retirement — these are concerns that torment many people today. more

January 25, 2023

FAMILY PRIDE:  “I am very proud of our company’s longevity — now 76 years! Continuing our family tradition is especially fulfilling, and I feel I am the custodian for the next generation. And now my son, Paul Jr., is in the business, and we look forward to continuing to enjoy our work and provide an important service for our clients. We are a family business in every way.” Paul Pennacchi (left), president of A. Pennacchi & Sons Masonry Restoration & Waterproofing Company, is shown with his son Paul Jr., who is vice president.

By Jean Stratton

Paul Pennacchi Sr. loves what he does. He enjoys the interaction with his co-workers, clients, his many and varied projects, and he is proud of the longtime family business, which he now heads.

A. Pennacchi & Sons Masonry Restoration & Waterproofing Company is a thriving organization that has benefited from the hard work and dedication of each generation that contributed to its success.

Now headquartered in Hamilton, it was established in 1947 in Trenton by brothers Anthony and John Pennacchi. Its storied history actually began earlier when Gaetano Pennacchi arrived from Italy in 1918, and settled in Trenton.

“He was a mason,” explains Paul Pennacchi,” and he started helping his neighbors with repair work on their houses. It was a side trade for him since he also worked full-time for General Motors, but it grew into a real business.” more

January 11, 2023

BEST PLACE: “We plan an improved inventory, with more choices, good prices with a wider range, higher quality, better products, and excellent customer service. Now Costello’s Ace is the Place!” Peter Schluter, managing partner of Costello’s Ace Hardware in Princeton, and Jean Irizarry, housewares manager, are shown near a display of popular housewares.

By Jean Stratton

What is it about hardware stores that is so intriguing to so many people? All those gadgets and tools! From screwdrivers and shovels to pruners and paint brushes to brooms and bird feeders to hoses and hammers, grills and garden ornaments — it is an endless supply of basics and more.

Nowhere is this more visible than at the new Costello’s Ace Hardware Store in the Princeton Shopping Center. Formerly Smith’s Ace Hardware, the store became home to new owners in October 2022.

Longtime and loyal Smith’s Ace customers will be pleased that another family business is setting up shop after George Smith and his brothers were in charge for 20 years.

“Costello’s and Princeton are a good fit,” points out Peter Schluter, Princeton Costello’s Ace managing partner. “Our CEO is Michael Costello, son of the founder Vinnie Costello. It’s a real family-owned and operated business. Vinnie opened the first store in Long Island in 1976, and now Costello’s has 46 Ace stores from Long Island to Virginia. We really are the ‘Helpful Place.’

“We are also very pleased with our Princeton Shopping Center location, with its convenient setting and free parking.” more

January 4, 2023

TEAM WORK: “We can advise clients about an appropriate look, but it is really up to the customer. We will certainly help them to achieve what they want. Most men who come in actually just want a quick haircut! We will always offer great value, quality, and service,” point out Nassau Barbers owner Travis Monahan and manager Jackie Witty. Shown is the barbershop team, from left: Karina Gonzalez, Jackie Witty, Jay Huang, Travis Monahan, Karlly Nunez, Rebecca Cabete, Brigid Gallagher, Alheli Ramos, and Vick Gramajo.

By Jean Stratton

Despite all the changes in lifestyle, culture, fads, and fashion over the years, the classic barber shop has never gone out of style.

Even throughout the turmoil and tumult of the 1960s, the hippies, with their long, unshorn locks, did not defeat the barber shop!

Whatever trends, tendencies, tectonic shifts, movements, and changes— including astonishingly assorted hairstyles —appeared in the ensuing decades, men and boys still went to their favorite barber shop.

And a favorite of many in Princeton is Nassau Barbers, located at 20 Nassau Street.

 more

December 14, 2022

SONGS OF THE SEASON: Led by Princeton Boychoir Director Fred Meads, Westrick Music Academy’s Princeton Boychoir performed their “Holiday Harmonies” special concert at All Saints’ Chapel in Princeton this past Sunday.

By Jean Stratton

“It’s like the sun and the moon and the stars — it is everything. It opened up worlds for me.”

This is what music has meant to one performer of choral music, whose career started in Princeton.

And the joy of music is not limited to the performer. It is a shared experience with the listeners, creating a moment that can be inspirational.

How special it is when these experiences can be brought to young children.

 more

December 7, 2022

THE TEST OF TIME: “We have been known for our personal attention, always ready to help customers with advice if they want it. They know that they could count on the quality of our products and our service.” Bob Cohen, owner of Freedman’s Jewelers, is shown with his sister and colleague Beverley Levenson in the Pennington store, which will close in February.

By Jean Stratton

An independent business since the early 1900s, Freedman’s Jewelers was originally established in Trenton. It was purchased by Sidney Cohen in 1937, and in 1954, it moved to the Ewing Shopping Center, 962 Parkway Avenue. A year later, Bob Cohen, Sidney’s son, joined the business.

The Cohens opened a second location in 1993 at the Pennington Shopping Center, its current site. This move expanded the clientele, with more customers coming from Hopewell, Pennington, Princeton, Lawrenceville, and Bucks County, Pa.

“Word-of-mouth built our business,” explains current owner Bob Cohen. “We have had many loyal customers over the years, and many are friends.

“When I joined the business, I really learned by doing. This is the best experience.” more

November 30, 2022

CREATIVE CHOICES: “We are set apart by the fact that we are the Princeton University Art Museum Store, and by our focus on regional artists and their handcrafted items. We are also a point of reference for information about the museum.” Allie P. Wolf, left, the store’s manager of wholesale and retail operations, is shown with staff members, from left, Hatice Cam, Michael T. Banks, Regina Massaro, and Stephanie Ronquillo.

By Jean Stratton

Discover art in all its beauty, diversity, and myriad forms at the Princeton University Art Museum Store.

This small shop at 56 Nassau Street is a treasure trove — a cornucopia of gifts. It offers the original creations of regional artists and artisans, as well as art-related gifts of all kinds.

Opened at its current site on Nassau Street and Palmer Square in 2019, it was previously located on campus in the Princeton University Art Museum. Now closed, the museum is being totally rebuilt, with plans to reopen in 2024.

“The focus of the store is on supporting regional artists, featuring their work in glass, ceramic, wood, metal, textiles, and jewelry,” explains Allie P. Wolf, the store’s buyer and manager of wholesale and retail operations. “In addition, we have Princeton University Museum-related items, including museum catalogs and books.”

 more