Children's boutique opens in White Deer Plaza

By Rose Sgarlato
SPARTA — White Deer Plaza is becoming more of a shopping destination every day. The latest addition: Ava & Jack Children’s Boutique opened Nov.1. Owner Kathryn Kaplan is no stranger to Lake Mohawk retail.
Kaplan has owned Garlic & Oil for 19 years. The two stores at 10 and 12 White Deer Plaza are adjacent to each other, steps away from the boardwalk and Lake Mohawk Country Club. Both occupy beautifully renovated buildings that exude lake-style charm and sophistication.
When the opportunity to open another shop became available, renovated by the same landlord next door to Garlic & Oil, Kaplan jumped on it. Her inspiration was simple.
“I needed to buy a baby gift recently and realized there is nothing locally. I didn’t want to go on line or to a mall,” Kaplan said. “When Ginny (landlord) bought the building, I said I would take the space, because I have had such a good experience working with her.”
Kaplan was in charge of designing Ava & Jack Children’s Boutique that has an antique-style ceiling, shiplap walls and an Australian oak floor. All of this houses specialty clothing and gift collections for boys and girls ages Newborn to 5T.
Sophisticated and specialized are words Kaplan uses to describe the clothing and gifts available at her new boutique. Ava & Jack is merchandised by collections: Mudd Pie, Flowers by Zoe, Noelle and Demdaco — all telling a story. And there is always a nod to Sparta and Lake Mohawk at both the new store and Garlic & Oil.
“They are special items but also everyday clothes and still affordable," she said. "Boy’s jeans are fully lined in flannel have been a big hit. We also have Lake Mohawk and Sparta tees.”
With the holidays here, Ava & Jack has seasonal gifts and matching pajamas for photo opportunities.
Kaplan is a resident of Lake Mohawk for 20 years, and her employees are locals too. She is most proud of them and grateful for their loyalty of many years. The Garlic & Oil gang also works at Ava & Jack.
“When I told them I was going to do this, they were enthusiastic and have been so helpful,” said Kaplan.
The response has been great with items already sold out, Kaplan said and added that she is looking forward to a successful future.
Ava & Jack Children’s Boutique; 10 White Deer Plaza, Sparta; 973-512-3630 and website www.avajack.com