Located in the artistic and bustling hub of Main Street sits an eclectic unsuspecting storefront painted green and yellow. The windows are filled with mountains of trinkets and clothing, with glimpses of plants and disco balls decorating the interior. Tying it all together is a sign displaying the words: “The Groovy Collective.” Through the windows, you see a wide variety of unique objects, some that pique your interest. It may be a patterned tote or a mini collectible item, but it inevitably draws you in.
Along the narrowing entrance to the store’s door, one could find a glass box holding a variety of trinkets, including but not limited to pins, jewelry, and keychains. This is just one aspect of the Groovy Collective that makes it special; this box allows you to take someone’s expendables and rehome them for yourself, given that you bring an item for someone else to take. Therefore, you are not just helping reduce waste, but you are giving a special gift to a stranger, or maybe a friend who passes along the way. The store already stands out before you even enter.
Inside the store, items for purchase come in all forms for all different people: vintage goods, homemade goods, and even various art pieces. In its center sits bins of both vintage and new vinyls from a variety of eras and genres of music, making it guaranteed for many visitors to find a vinyl perfect for them. Covering all four walls of the room are posters of cherished artists, locally crocheted plushes, vintage dolls, and so many different goods, all with that “groovy” touch that makes the eccentric vibe of the store. The back corner holds a new and fruitful section filled with clothing and bags. Fashionable fur coats straight from the 70s or inspired by the era, funky leather jackets, and vintage Coach purses are just some of the items that fill the clothing racks and shelves in this cozy space.
All of this is a product of the mission set out by owner Heather Leigh. Leigh works to bring life back into unwanted objects, protect the environment by offering environmentally sustainable items, and spotlighting the work of local artists. It is clear that she has put a lot of effort into building a hub of inspiration, artistry, and community for all of the hard-workers, citizens, and even visitors of Flemington. The store has held events and continues to do so in order to foster this fellowship. Early in March, the store held a celebration for its one year anniversary. Around one year ago, Leigh left her monotonous and draining desk job in order to create a store that channeled the 60s and 70s spirit she grew up loving. Her story is certainly a great one, and an achievement deserving of celebration! Music was played, snacks were offered, the new section in the back corner was opened, and people spent time hanging out and exploring the variety of goods available. Such an event reflects the success of Leigh’s achieving her mission.
So, what does the Groovy Collective’s future hold? As time moves on, the shop will inevitably be filled with new items worthy of love and appreciation from all of Flemington’s citizens alike. Moreover, more community and pop-up events, as well as workshops, will likely be held in the future. The store’s socials on Facebook and Instagram have updates on these sorts of events. Coming up on April 11th, the Groovy Collective will be hosting a Spring Flea Market in collaboration with Defiant Hair.
Overall, the Groovy Collective is a must-see for all Flemington-goers or town locals. It’s the perfect place to visit after a long day of school, work, or just when you’re looking to pass the time. It also makes for a great place to visit with friends! When you go, make sure to bring a trinket you don’t want anymore to place in the glass box outside the store’s door. Afterall, this would make you an active part of achieving the store’s mission of bringing life to undesired goods.
For more information, check out the store’s socials, as well as its website linked here: https://groovycollectivenj.com/#mission
