Popular Westwood Gift Shop Plans To Close

WESTWOOD, NJ – A popular gift shop in Westwood is closing after more than eight years in business.

The Canteen, which specializes in customized accessories, toys, clothing, stuffed animals, candy and other gifts, announced plans to shutter its Westwood Avenue shop in a social media post this week.

“It is time for The Canteen to say goodbye. We thank you all for your business, your stories, your smiles and for letting us be a part of your families. We are so incredibly grateful and honored to have built so many amazing relationships,” they said.

Besides selling personalized goods, The Canteen also hosted birthday parties and theme days, such as events to learn how to airbrush.

Owner Rayna Pine told Pascack Press newspaper she is “starting a new phase of life” and wants to “go out on a high note.”

Pine opened the shop in November 2011 as a way to fuse together her fashion background with her love of being a mother. Prior to launching her business, she worked for two decades at the Garment Center.

A closing date has not been announced, however all items are marked down 25 percent.

The Five Corners area is in the midst of several changes, with a Stack Creamery opening soon at 287 Westwood Avenue. Following the September 2019 closing of L.N. Grand 5 & 10 Cent Store, the planning board is considering a proposal of a craft beer brewery to take its place.