BASKING RIDGE, NJ — In less than two years, Basking Ridge native Caitlin Cunningham will bring two local and unique businesses to town.
Cunningham opened The Blue Starfish Creative Arts Center on West Oak Street in June 2022 which offers a variety of classes including ceramics, sewing, knitting, crochet, cookie decorating, and sip and paint.
“It’s a one-stop shop where we offer all different sorts of creativity,” said Cunningham to Patch.
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Cunningham is now expanding to open Ridge Sweet Shoppe in February located at 24 West Oak Street, which is next door to her Arts Center.
“My family goes back in the area three generations and my mom still lives in Basking Ridge,” said Cunningham. “I love the small-town feel and have roots in the community. I don’t think I could choose a better place to open than Basking Ridge.”
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At the Arts Center, Cunningham offered cake and cookie decorating classes and received great feedback. This prompted her to lease the location next door and expand to be able to offer her classes while also serving up sweet treats.
“There is nothing quite like it in Basking Ridge. That’s where I saw it was a very unique opportunity, so I jumped on it immediately,” said Cunningham.
Ridge Sweet Shoppe will offer a variety of homemade sweet treats for custom order including cakes, crepes, waffles, truffles, cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, candy platters, customized chocolate candy, custom fruit arrangements, and dessert charcuterie boards.
Orders will also be available for online orders through DoorDash and UberEats.
For Cunningham opening her own small business is a dream come true. She pursued business in school and was awarded a scholarship to help her fulfill her dreams.
“I always dreamed of opening a storefront and I’ve always aspired to be a small business owner. This is truly a moment where I never stopped pursuing my dream,” said Cunningham. “I don’t think I’ve been so happy in my life. This is absolutely an incredible opportunity and I am so blessed.”
For more information on the Ridge Sweet Shoppe visit its Facebook page. For more information on Blue Starfish Creative Arts Center visit bluestarfishcreativeartscenter.com or facebook.com/BlueStarfishCreativeArtsCenterNJ.
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