South Jersey's Sober Party Girl

  There are many reasons I feel lucky to call South Jersey home, but one of my favorites? The growing mocktail scene. More and more restaurants in our area are embracing sober living, offering creative nonalcoholic drinks instead of the usual “we can make you a Shirley Temple .” And honestly? That deserves to be celebrated. Thanks in part to the amazing HERO Campaign and their mission to encourage designated driving, mocktails are becoming easier to find at bars and restaurants across South Jersey. It makes going out feel more inclusive, and a lot more fun for those of us living alcohol-free. This week gave me two very different dining experiences… one unexpectedly delightful, and one unforgettable for reasons I wish were better. A Surprise Stop at Texas Roadhouse (with Mocktails!) The week started with a place I honestly never imagined I’d be visiting: Texas Roadhouse. I’m not exactly a “Texas” girl (Go Birds), but Joe had a Veterans Day free meal coupon, and I wanted him to enjo...

  Summer officially showed up in South Jersey this week, and honestly? I’m not mad about it. Between backyard-style parties, waterfront seafood dinners, and more mocktails than I can count, this week felt like the unofficial kickoff to the season. From inland Egg Harbor City to the marshy docks of Galloway, this little adventure reminded me that you don’t need a beach badge to have the perfect South Jersey summer night. My week started at The Inn on St. Louis for the AC Pride May Mixer. My friend Markie, the president of AC Pride , and his incredible team pulled together another event full of good energy, welcoming people, and serious summer BBQ vibes. The outdoor event space at The Inn on St. Louis feels like the ultimate backyard party setup. There’s a BBQ pit, shaded tables, and a trendy shipping-container-style bar serving cocktails, mocktails, and pretty much anything you could want to sip on during a 90-degree South Jersey heatwave. The event included complimentary light bite...

  I can feel it… summer at the Jersey Shore is officially creeping in. The pollen is attacking, my car has probably gone through its 100th wash already, and suddenly every errand feels like a race against beach season. But somewhere between vacuuming out the car and mentally planning my first full beach day, I stumbled into what might just be my new favorite South Jersey hidden gem. If you love vintage finds, furniture treasures, and the thrill of uncovering something amazing, you need to check out The Red Door Thrift Store in Linwood NJ, part of the Cancer Support Community (formerly Gilda’s Club). The Best Thrift Store Find Yet The moment I walked into The Red Door Thrift Store, I knew I was in trouble. Ihe good kind of trouble. Every corner was packed with beautiful furniture, vintage décor, old writing desks, dining room sets, and enough quirky knickknacks to keep me wandering for hours. I wanted to buy half the store and photograph the other half. Then I spotted the couch. My...