Nicole DePreta, stylist and fashion blogger, has moved around New Jersey and now calls Oakland, NJ home. Here is Stay at Home Stylist, Nicole DePreta’s Life in Oakland, NJ.
Tell me about your move to Oakland, New Jersey
I’ve always lived in New Jersey. Prior to moving to Oakland, we lived in Rochelle Park in a quaint little starter home that my husband purchased before we were married. We had our first daughter, Gianna there but as our family grew, we started to feel the need to move to a bigger home. We looked at homes throughout Bergen County because of its proximity to my husband’s work. We fell in love with a few homes in Park Ridge and Montvale but they didn’t work out. Friends suggested checking out Oakland. We instantly fell in love with Oakland. We loved the country feel, great schools, and larger properties. Growing up in an urban community (Kearny), Oakland was certainly a culture shock, but “quiet suburbia” was very appealing!
Did you know anyone when you moved to Oakland, NJ?
When I moved to Oakland, I didn’t know anyone. I tried to meet new people the first few months but it was hard while balancing the first trimester of my second pregnancy. I didn’t really meet new people until I enrolled my 2 ½ year old in preschool. Once we she started school, I met so many wonderful and accommodating individuals. They introduced me to the community and all it had to offer.
How old are your kids? What are your go-to places with the kids in the Oakland area?
I have two girls- a 7 year old and a 10 year old. We used to go to the Oakland Public library and frequent the parks daily. Now that they are older and very involved in activities, those days are distant memories. My girls and I are huge fashionistas, so we love to visit Urban Club Clothing Co. in Wayne, NJ. They have so many cool fashion finds and their very own bling bar!
We love to go to W’s Grill in Oakland. It’s family oriented restaurant in Oakland and the staff is super nice. The food is great too. Oakland Bagels and Pastry is a favorite. Daily trips to Starbucks are a must, and we love Playa Bowls too.
How are the schools in Oakland?
My girls attended Ponds Valley Preschool in Oakland for 6 years and they are like family. Kind, caring, and nurturing, they set such a strong foundation for my girls. The Oakland public schools have been wonderful thus far. The teachers are accessible, always approachable, and on hand to help.
What are some things you don’t like about living in Oakland?
I don’t love the hassle of the septic system or the NJ property taxes!
How would you describe residents of Oakland, NJ?
Oakland residents are very welcoming and down to earth. It’s super easy to make new friends in Oakland.
Can you describe your social life?
At this time my social life pretty much revolves around my kids and their activities!
Why do you love living in Oakland, NJ?
If you are looking to distance yourself from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Oakland is your place. Oakland is a great place to settle down and raise a family. It certainly feels like home.
About Nicole DePreta
Nicole DePreta is a stylist and fashion blogger. Her fashion blog, Stay at Home Stylist and styling services are geared towards moms who need a little assistance in regaining their style and dressing their “squad” on a budget! Her motto is: chic and cheap! She likes to think of herself as your new BFF- Best Fashion Finder! She will work with you in getting you the look, feeling your best, while not breaking the bank! Nicole lives in Oakland, NJ with her husband and two girls, Gianna and Mia. Website: www.stayathomestylist.com Facebook: Stay At Home Stylist Instagram: @stayathomestylist
You may also be interested in:
Laura Bostrom’s Life in Montclair, NJ
Meghan Buchert- Mom, Food Scientist and Entrepreneur from Franklin Lakes, NJ
Lauren Wilson-Policke’s Life in Montclair, NJ
Private School versus Public School
Need a Local Real Estate Agent?
Suburbs 101 has a free service to connect you with local real estate agents. Check it out!
About Suburbs 101
Suburbs 101 is an online lifestyle guide for the New York Suburbs of Westchester County, Long Island, Fairfield County and Northern New Jersey. Get the inside scoop on what it’s really like to live in the New York suburbs through our interviews with local suburbanites and features on Food, Fashion, Home, Travel, and Local Events. Be sure to Follow Us on Instagram, Like Us on Facebook, follow Suburbs 101 on Twitter and subscribe to our Monthly Newsletter.