Seeing all the stores getting supplied with new merchandise and a lot of unusual gift ideas means Christmas is even closer than we think. At a time when the big box stores and Amazon and other online shopping has kept some folk away from local businesses, it’s time to think of the benefits of supporting local businesses, the appeal of being able to see, feel and hold something before purchase, and other perks different local businesses offer.
Bayshore Pharmacy in Atlantic Highlands is one great example of where everyone should stop with their Christmas shopping list. Their merchandise manager is creative, to say the least, and in addition to establishing specific items in specific sections, the variety of unusual purchase items is far reaching.
Whether it is an unusual Christmas ornament…many love the Irish theme and the cardinal on a tree is always a sign of good luck, or Christmas candy or toys, be it family entertainment including a wide variety of puzzles and games, or even some magnificent stoles or other clothing, it makes sense to stop in Bayshore Pharmacy and check it out.
They even offer free gift wrapping, and you even get a choice of wrapping paper. The pharmacy has come a long way from simply being efficient, helpful and prompt with prescriptions, which they also deliver at no charge, it’s obvious the current owner learned well from his dad and those who have made this a popular pharmacy since it first opened.
While you’re at the shopping mall, and if spirits are to your liking, Saltwater Liquors has a great variety of unusual gift items large and small. They feature local breweries as well as both international and local wines, and here again, it’s a staff that is friendly, helpful, and goes the extra mile to be sure the customer is happy.
Salt Water is also a part of the name of the newest restaurant in Highlands as well, and Saltwater Social at 128 Bay Ave offers wonderful dinners, both to enjoy after a day of shopping or as an idea for gift cards. It’s that cozy nook at the second level that makes this restaurant a bit unusual to say nothing of the coordinates on the bar.
Bahrs Restaurant also offers gift certificates, and there, too, has a great little gift shop with plenty of ideas for locals or visitors who want others to remember Highlands and the Bayshore. The town’s oldest still operating business has offered spectacular lunches and dinners for more than a century and their gift certificates are always appreciated.
Stopping in Renaissance on First Avenue in Atlantic Highlands while visiting so many other fine stores on the borough’s main street is sure to have bargains that will entice you particularly if you opt for vintage or artisanal goods. Shopping here also gives you an opportunity to help out the Christian Church which maintains a spectacular booth in Renaissance with plenty of quaint or singular items.
Those of us who live in the Bayshore have great restaurants, beauty salons, coffee shops, variety stores, and other places that offer gift certificates. Our Lady of Perpetual Help St Agnes Church is offering a spectacular Christmas Fest on Dec. 14 from 3 to 8 p.m. with lots of hand made and one-of-a-kind items. Even My Guy Nelson who was honored at the last Atlantic Highlands Council meeting most likely has gift cards that any car owner would appreciate, bit it for an oil change or tires.
Christmas giving should be more than just purchasing something; it should be an opportunity to put thought into a special gift, help a local business or combine it with a gift to a charitable organization. It makes it more special!
