Parties, presents, food, family

443

By Julie Davis
The holidays are the most wonderful time of year. But this year, in particular, they’re much more than just good times and gluttonous gifting. Giving is our theme for the season – be it happiness or hope, style or support. Our guide to gifting mixes the pleasures of the holiday with helping those in need. Merry giving.
 
GIVE WARMTH
Rekindle the spirit of the holiday. This beautifully scented candle from New York City’s premiere florist, Belle Fleur, is as gracious as it is glamorous.
Belle Fleur Candles, Rumson China and Glass, Red Bank
 
GIVE HAPPINESS
Unwrap a smile. These soft, snuggly stuffed animals are sure to bring joy to any girl or boy.
Jelly Cat Stuffed Animals, Fragile Earth, Red Bank
 
 
GIVE LOVE
This one-of-a-kind stone, set in 14-karat gold, is reminiscent of the Sandy Hook shoreline. Dubbed the “Officers’ Row” pendant by its designer, Gem of an Idea’s Maureen Bay, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the FoodBank of Neptune.
Officers’ Row Pendant, Gem of An Idea, Fair Haven
 

Renderings of the characters from the book “A Wind in the Willows Christmas,” which will have its world premiere on stage as a musical at the Two River Theater.

GIVE WONDER
The magic of the theater is a surprise and delight for all ages. This holiday, treat someone to a performance of A Wind in the Willows Christmas — a classic tale about true friendship by the Two River Theater Company. The Tuesday, Dec. 11, show is a dedicated performance for local families impacted by Hurricane Sandy.
Visit www.trtc.org for details on how to donate or become a family sponsor.
 
 
GIVE HOPE
A beautiful reminder of a day in the life at the Jersey Shore, painted by local artist Steven Weston and aptly titled Brand New Day. It’s an inspiring gift for anyone who believes in the heroic efforts to restore our shore.
Brand New Day (print on canvas), Weston Gallery. Manasquan
 
 
GIVE CHEER
For families affected by Hurricane Sandy, the Atlantic Club’s Wish Upon a Star Toy Drive is playing Santa. Donate new, unwrapped toys and make a child’s holiday wish come true.
Wish Upon a Start Toy Drive, The Atlantic Club, Red Bank and Manasquan
 
 
GIVE RELIEF
For those who’ve lost everything, give the gift of a bright future. Donate in your name, or a friend’s, to these worthy causes: Sea Bright Rising, Hope for Highlands and Rebuild our Shore.
www.seabrightrising.org; www.highlandsnj.com/hope; www.rebuildourshore.com
 
GIVE STYLE
Love, support, courage, confidence – for the woman who gives her family everything, this coveted shearling and leather carryall is the gift of her dreams.
3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Hour Bag, Glow, Shrewsbury
 
GIVE PEACE
Because life has been anything but normal, give the ultimate escape: a day of relaxation at the Mosaic Salon and Spa. Massage, facial, salt glow – it’s serenity, now.
Mosaic Salon and Spa, Shrewsbury
 
 
 
SHOPPING GUIDE
 
Sea Bright Rising
P.O. Box 6245
Fair Haven, NJ 07704
732-263-0444
www.seabrightrising.org
 
Hope for Highlands
P.O. Box 375
Highlands, NJ 07732
www.highlandsnj.com/hope
 
Rebuild Our Shore
P.O. Box 727
Island Heights, NJ 08732
www.rebuildourshore.com
 
Fragile Earth
9 Monmouth St.
Red Bank
732-759-0016
www.feplush.com
 
Two River Theater Company
21 Bridge Avenue
Red Bank
732-345-1400
www.trtc.org
 
Glow
The Grove at Shrewsbury
567 Broad St.
Shrewsbury
732-747-2262
www.shopglowonline.com
 
Weston Gallery
79 Main St.
Manasquan
732-292-1644
www.westongalleries.com
 
Mosaic Salon and Spa
508 Broad St.
Shrewsbury
732-530-7666
www.mosaicdayspa.com
 
Gem of an Idea
740 River Road
732-747-9339
www.gemofanidea.com
 
Rumson China and Glass
105 Broad St.
Red Bank
732-842-2322
www.rumsonchina.com
 
The Atlantic Club
325 Maple Ave.
Red Bank
1904 Atlantic Ave.
Manasquan
www.theatlanticclub.com