Niki Baratta
Niki B Jewelry
British-born Niki Baratta was schooled in fashion and worked for The Limited in London before snagging a plum spot at Victoria’s Secret in Manhattan as vice president of photography. Her combination of fashion and energy-healing sensibilities led to the creation of Niki B Jewelry in 2019. “I design necklaces, bracelets and earrings that are handmade in Manhattan with beautiful, energy-healing crystals and 14-karat rose gold. Every piece is elegant and timeless,” says the Montclair resident. More than 43,000 fans follow Baratta on Instagram (@nikibaratta). Amethyst earrings; $165 at nikibjewelry.com.
Megan Schroeder
August Designs
Megan Schroeder of Bernardsville launched her own handbag designs in 2010 after studying fashion in Florence, Italy, and working for clothing designers in the Big Apple. “I like to use exquisitely supple leather in fun colors as well as exotic skins for my handmade bags,” says Schroeder. “No woman wants to carry the same bag that everyone else is carrying. My totes, handbags and clutches are created in small quantities and don’t carry a logo.” Pink Emerson clutch; $450 at augustdesigns.co and on Instagram (@august.designs).
Mary Beth McAllister
MB McAllister
After schooling in Europe, Mary Beth McAllister landed editorial positions at Condé Nast, designed promotional gifts for Oscar de la Renta Fragrances, and built an accessories business selling to Bergdorf’s, Bendel’s and Bloomingdale’s. Her interiors for four Mansion in May Designer Showhouses, including Blairsden, featured illustration, sculpture, painted furniture and dishes. McAllister’s French-inspired characters adorn prints, notecards, tea towels and candles. “My Armchair Travel Candle transports you to your own luxuriously scented world from the comfort of your sofa,” says the New Vernon resident. 8 oz. candle; $32 each at mbmcallister.com. Instagram: @studiombmcallister.
Nina Christine Yacavino
Karma Love Perfume
After attending the famed Parisian olfactory school, Cinquieme Sens, Nina Christine Yacavino of Mendham spent two years creating a classic fragrance that sources flowers exclusively from the Côte d’Azur region of France. “Karma Love is a fresh and floral eau de parfum with a beautiful fusion of rose, gardenia and jasmine,” she says. “This contemporary, elegant fragrance is perfect for Valentine’s Day because it evokes strong femininity.” 1.7 fl. oz. fragrance; $130 at redbankartisancollective.com. Instagram: @ninachristineperfumes.