Pandemic Inspires Livingston Mom, Son To Open Store In Montclair

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Livingston mother-and-son duo Beth and Ben Stricof say the origin story of their new gift store in Montclair has some unusual inspiration: the coronavirus pandemic and a new puppy.

On Thursday, the Stricofs will open “& son” at 43A Church Street in Montclair, just in time for the fall shopping season. Learn more about this local business here.

“This store opening is a direct, positive result of the pandemic,” explained Ben Stricof, who graduated from Livingston High School in 2005.

“I came back home, like so many people of my generation, to work remotely,” Stricof recalled. “I bought a puppy for companionship during the lockdown and decided he needed a better bed, so we designed a dog bed and person couch.”

That idea soon blossomed into their new brainchild, & son, a “concept shop” that offers an eclectic assortment of merchandise including clothing, furniture and home décor. The Stricofs are attempting to make the space itself a venue of sorts, including rotating installations that highlight local artists such as photographers Claire and Jeremy Weiss and furniture artist Ed Rode.

“The diverse and artistic spirit of Montclair make it the perfect place for & son,” Stricof said. “The unique combination of two aesthetics – hip and funky with trendy and sophisticated is what we’re all about.”

Beth Stricof agreed that embracing – and boosting – the local business community will be a big key to success.

“It is our optimistic hope that shopping direct and local will help restore the well-being of individuals and the community and strengthen the journey back to normalcy as we cope with the pandemic and beyond,” she said.

No stranger to the area, Beth previously owned and operated, Ruby, a women’s clothing boutique on Church Street. Now, she’s making another run at the retail market – this time with her son at her side.

The pair have a lot in common, Ben Stricof said. For example, they both share a passion for design; she’s had her own clothing line, and he’s created items for his own production company.

“When I moved home during quarantine we finally started collaborating,” Stricof said. “Turns out it's a perfect match.”

• See related article: Montclair Restaurant Owner Takes Gutsy Leap, Expands Amid COVID
• See related article: Livingston Moms Open 'Indoor Playground' Amid Coronavirus

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Sign up for Patch email newsletters.