Bernardsville Businesses Celebrate Community Ties and Transformation

Ten local shops in the New Jersey town reflect a spirit of legacy, personal service, and renewal.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Bernardsville, New Jersey is home to a diverse array of local businesses that are deeply rooted in the community. From longtime establishments like The Rebecca Collection and The Bookworm, to newer additions like Après and BeLife, these entrepreneurs are honoring the past while also transforming to meet the needs of modern customers. Whether through curated gift selections, personalized fitness plans, or creating inviting retail spaces, the common thread is a commitment to quality of life and making Bernardsville a vibrant place to live.

Why it matters

This story highlights how small businesses in a tight-knit community can thrive by blending tradition and innovation. The businesses profiled showcase Bernardsville's strong sense of local identity and how dedicated entrepreneurs are preserving the town's character amid broader economic changes.

The details

The article profiles ten Bernardsville businesses that exemplify the town's community-oriented spirit. Longstanding shops like The Rebecca Collection, The Bookworm, and Tsuki have maintained loyal customer bases by staying true to their founding principles. Meanwhile, newer additions like Boutique Calia, Après, and BeLife are bringing fresh ideas and experiences to the town. Across the board, the business owners emphasize providing personalized service, creating inviting spaces, and supporting the overall wellbeing of Bernardsville residents.

  • The Rebecca Collection, The Bookworm, and Tsuki have been operating in Bernardsville for over 35 years.
  • Bernards Decorating and Lily and the Rose Design have been expanding their established businesses in recent years.
  • Après, a children's retail store, was founded as a 'second career' venture by three local professionals.

The players

Sharon Markowitz and Bari Marder

The owners of The Rebecca Collection, carrying on the legacy of Sharon's mother, Rebecca, by selecting gifts that come 'from their heart'.

Vera

The new owner of The Bookworm, who stepped up to save the iconic bookstore after 39 years of success.

Ginn Huang

The owner of Tsuki, who has spent more than 35 years refining a menu to please local taste buds.

Arlene Reilly

The owner of Bernards Decorating, who has spent years expanding a long-established business.

Stephanie Barbara

The owner of Lily and the Rose Design, who chose Bernardsville for its 'strong sense of community and lively downtown'.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.