Gift hunting available at Brass Lantern in Metuchen
Metuchen, New Jersey — When you have to buy a special present and have no idea what to give, the Brass Lantern in Metuchen is a great place to go. The store, which has spread throughout a couple of storefronts in vintage wood-frame buildings on Main Street, reflects the very eclectic tastes and interests of its longtime proprietor, Lois Cataldo, who started the store in the 1970s when her children were small. Today, she’s a great grandmother.
“We started as an antique furniture store,” said Cataldo, who originally had a partner. “Back in the ’70s, country curtains were very popular, so we added curtains. We had calico and gingham in the central section of the store. And I wanted to make it sort of a country store.”
As time has passed, Cataldo has broadened the store’s inventory to include whatever strikes her fancy. Today, when you step through the front door, you’re in the wedding department, full of feminine finery (not gowns) and wedding accessories. This transitions nicely into the women’s apparel section, filled with beautifully made sweaters, blouses, jackets and slacks. Across from it is the rectangular sales counter with glass cases filled with vintage jewelry. Beyond the apparel is the card section, with several racks of greeting cards, ribbons, gift boxes and gift bags. Behind this section is a candle section with scented candles in every color imaginable.
