For those looking to pick up a new skill or hobby, we’re lucky enough to have the Jersey City Art School right in our backyard. Located on a beautiful block in downtown JC {29 McWilliams Place}, the school is for beginners and seasoned art veterans alike. We paid a visit to the school just for kicks + we’re giving you a sneak peek inside — check it out:
According to their website, Jersey City Art School is focused on the “growth of the individual artist — those involved can learn new skills, build a portfolio, or just hone their existing technique in an environment that fosters communication, even friendship, with others who have the same interests and talent.” The school offers one-time programs as well as 6- and 8-week classes {because it takes time to learn how to paint like a pro} with a ton of variety. The longer classes include things like drawing, watercolors, digital photography, and oil painting, and the benefit of signing up for these extended classes is you will really hone yourself as an artist {plus, it’s a great way to make some new friends in the area who you may not have met otherwise}.
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Don’t have time for a long-term commitment? That’s not a problem, because JCAS has some awesome one-time workshops like their Print Parties {to learn printmaking} or Drink and Draw {with live models}, which are scheduled on a recurring basis. They also have Figure Drawing Short Pose {a lot of different poses from live models, each held for a short period of time} on Wednesday nights and Figure Drawing Long Pose {fewer poses from the models but more time to perfect your drawings} on Sunday afternoons. And, if you have little ones who show an interest in the arts, you’re going to love the JCAS Kids Academy. Their summer arts programs are perfect for kids of all ages who want to stay close to home.
A recent printmaking workshop we attended showcased three different types of printmaking; linocut, monotype, and fabric stamping. The instructor, Bruno, was knowledgeable and easygoing — he helped us perfect our works of art {without too much judgment on our art skills — much appreciated}. There was a great mix of veteran artists and first timers in the room, and everyone was extraordinarily friendly and willing to offer advice or compliments.
See More: Jivamukti Yoga in Jersey City
Et voila! If you get the sudden urge to create a new masterpiece for your living room, be sure to visit Jersey City Art School – and if you check it out, let us know! Tag us on Insta @hobokengirlblog or #hobokengirl. Stay crafty!
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A List of Old-Fashioned Candy + Chocolate Shops in Northern New Jersey
For some, taking a quick trip to the nearest convenience store will satisfy that late-night sweet tooth. For others, it’s a craving for the extraordinary taste of handmade chocolates and candies. Luckily, various local shops have been specializing in just that for decades. We’ve compiled a list of these old-fashioned gems located throughout Northern New Jersey. Read on for our favorite candy and chocolate shops in the Northern New Jersey area.
Bromilow’s Chocolates | 350 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park + 891 Bloomfield Avenue, West Caldwell
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Bromilow’s Chocolates is not only a local favorite but was also named a historic landmark by Woodland Park. Bromilow’s has been churning out a selection of homemade candies and chocolates for over 60 years. Upon entry, fill your box with a variety of bite-sized chocolates, truffles, and even sugar-free chocolates from the candy case, or choose from pre-packaged bags and boxes to take home. Bromilow’s also has a second location with more room to shop in West Caldwell.
Read More: A Definitive List of Hoboken Desserts You Must Eat ASAP
Candy Connections | 327 Lakeview Avenue, Clifton
Candy Connections in Clifton is a one-stop-shop for all things candy and baking. The sweet-tooth haven sells Mercken's chocolate, baking supplies, chocolate molds and special holiday treats. The kind staff is also available to guide shoppers through their unique stash of hard-to-find baking items.
Chocolates with Love | 47 Interstate Shopping Center, Ramsey + 68 Ridgefield Avenue, Ridgefield Park
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Jumbo turkeys, Santa Clauses, hearts, jack-o-lanterns, and the Easter Bunny are among the specialty chocolate molds that can be found at Chocolates with Love. For over 40 years, customers have been indulging in homemade chocolates and chocolate-covered goodies. We’re thinking about the white chocolate peanut butter cups, chocolate and rainbow sprinkle-covered pretzels, and, of course, the classic chocolate-covered strawberries.
Conrad's Confectionery | 107 Westwood Avenue, Westwood
Conrad's Confectionery has been creating homemade candy since 1928. The long-standing ice cream and candy shop in Westwood is a North Jersey staple with old-school vibes. From holiday specialties like chocolate covered strawberries to mobile sweet treat events, Conrad's is a classic go-to for all of your sugary needs.
Dayton Homemade Chocolates | 1053 Bloomfield Avenue, Clifton
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This family-owned and operated business has been serving the Clifton community since 1912. Dayton has assorted boxes of chocolates available for purchase. Gourmet truffles and sugar-free chocolates are other alternatives to try out. For the holiday season, hot cocoa bombs, Santa-shaped chocolates, and peanut butter holiday-shaped chocolates are sold. Dayton’s catalog can be viewed here.
Enjou Chocolat | 8 Dehart Street, Morristown
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Enjou Chocolat is a luxurious chocolate experience in Morristown. The chocolate shop serves up specialty selections such as chocolate covered pretzels, nonpareils, sea salt caramels, and more. In addition, Enjou Chocolat is known for its curated gift baskets and unique molds.
Gary's Sweet Shoppe | 444 West Side Avenue
For over 50 years, Gary's Sweet Shoppe has been an iconic part of Jersey City. The cozy spot serves more than just popular candies too as locals can stop by for coffee quick bites, and other convenience items. The shop is open from 3:30AM to 7PM daily for a candy fix nearly any time of day.
Genevieve’s Chocolates | 174 Ray Street, Garfield
Customers describe Genevieve’s Chocolates as “a chocolate lovers paradise” and home to the best chocolate on the planet. Since its opening in 1944, Genevieve’s has been family-owned and operated, producing the finest handcrafted chocolate. Some of the everyday favorites include chocolate-covered marshmallows, Oreos, and nuts. Celebrate special holidays with loved ones from afar with a gift from Genevieve’s, which can be shipped via USPS between November and May.
Kilwins | 1 Towne Centre Suite #1011, Cliffside Park + 121 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood
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Kilwins has been a staple in the ice cream and chocolate game since 1947. The business is rooted in strong family values dating back decades. Now, Kilwins has expanded with locations all over the country serving high-quality ice cream, chocolate creations, and confections.
Krause’s Homemade Candies | 50 Bergen Boulevard, Fairview + 203 McLean Boulevard, Paterson
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Known for its famous chocolate-covered strawberries made fresh daily, Krause’s Homemade Candies has been a staple for the chocolate lover since 1929. Whether for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or a simple thank you, Krause’s has everything to make the perfect gift. For those who can’t make it to a store, place orders online throughout the fall and early spring (before it gets too hot) and have them shipped to a loved one… or your front door.
Laurie's Homemade Candies | 600 Berdan Avenue, Wayne
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Laurie Walker’s story began just over fifty years ago when she opened her chocolate store after following her passion in the kitchen and studying candy making. After walking into Laurie’s, the shopper’s senses are bombarded by the chocolate scent in the air and the entire wall of assorted Jelly Belly jelly bean flavors and jelly fruit slices. Laurie’s Homemade Candies can also be found at various retail partners around North and Central Jersey such as Demarest Farms in Hillsdale and Richfield Farms in Clifton.
Lee Sims Chocolates | 743 Bergen Avenue, Jersey City
The family behind Lee Sims Chocolates is now in its fourth generation of ownership and operates from the same storefront where it all started way back when. There is now a factory not too far away from where much of the chocolates are produced. No matter what the occasion or celebration, Lee Sims Chocolates is ready to make all the chocolate treats of your dreams come true. HG pro tip: go for one of the pyramid boxes which has various assortments and try a little bit of everything!
Lepore’s Chocolates | 105 4th Street, Hoboken
Family-owned since 1980, this Hoboken chocolate shop is beloved by both Hudson County residents and people like the Sinatra Family. The owner got his inspiration from traveling and working in Europe, bringing what he learned to Lepore’s. The chocolates are made on-site each day, and the shop has all kinds of custom chocolates, gift baskets, occasion favors, and more to customers.
The Chocolate Nook | 11-11 River Road, Fair Lawn
The Chocolate Nook in Fair Lawn is known for its specialty selection of truffles and custom favors, baskets, and platters. The chocolate-centric business has unique holiday molds for every occasion and even has same-day delivery.
Vesta Chocolate | 598 Valley Road Suite #2, Upper Montclair
Vesta Chocolate is owned and run by hospitality veterans Julia Choi and Roger Rodriguez. The couple uses their food expertise to bring mouth-watering chocolate treats to Montclair. On Vesta’s menu, there are Vesta Bars that come in flavors like matcha, golden latte, and maca ashwaganda. For sweeter cravings, chocolate baked goods are available — ranging from brownies to cookies.
See More: The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Spots in Montclair
Zigarelli Chocolates | 34 Deforest Avenue, East Hanover
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Originally from Belleville, Zigarelli Chocolates has been a family-owned operation for more than 55 years. The Gennarelli family pulls out all the stops for handmade chocolates like chocolate-covered strawberries and pretzels, truffles, and hazelnut bark. Consider a hot cocoa bomb, which makes for the perfect dessert, especially during these cold winter nights.
