Dubbed ‘olde' when it was new, Lafayette landmark nears 25 years

LAFAYETTE n As Olde Lafayette Village prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary on Sept. 25, the vision for the shopping center is changing. According to general manager Linda Cappaze, the original concept was to create a shopping destination similar to Peddlers' Village in Pa. Although many of the establishments still reflect that style n candle shops, arts and crafts, a penny-candy store and coffee and tea shops n the village is evolving into a different model. Today, the view is to build on the village's "neighborhood" appeal and to continue to develop it to resemble a downtown shopping district. Outlet stores, that include Jones New York, Bass and VanHeusen, along with many specialty shops, are now part of the make-up. "Outlet stores are a great ‘calling card,' as people know these names, and while shoppers are here, they get to appreciate what else we have to offer," said Cappaze. Several stores, such as Maggie's Gift Emporium, La Maison Jolie and Childs Play Spot, have enlarged their quarters to accommodate a larger selection of merchandise. One of the original businesses, the Village Mane, has expanded its original offerings to include spa services such as tanning, massage and beauty products. The management is taking its lead from customers, seeking their suggestions in deciding which type of stores to look for when filling vacant space. A book store, The Book Cellar, is one of the newest occupants, and a new café will open shortly. "What we have created and will continue to create is an array of specialty shops," said operations manager Carol Reed. The evolution of the village coincides with the development of the heart of Lafayette Township as an antique center. Using that development as inspiration, the village is seeking to attract antique emporiums. Every Sunday throughout the summer, it hosts a farmers market that remains open through Oct. 30. As many as nine Sussex County farms display and sell their home grown produce. On Aug. 7, a classic car show will take visitors back to the 1950s, with trivia contests and prizes. On Aug. 20, there will be a pet adoption day at the Village Hall. In addition, there are sidewalk sales, festivals, and concerts scheduled through the end of the summer. The anniversary celebration will feature music, games, "trackless" train rides, and a carnival atmosphere with balloons and magic shows. The Lafayette House has recently undergone a renovation by new owner Jack Frey, and now includes a patio in addition to the main restaurant and banquet rooms. The Village Hall at the center of the area is available for meetings, children's play dates, art shows and classes, and, of course, weddings. Capaze and Reed recalled some unusual wedding themes that included an Elvis Wedding and another in which the limousine was so long, it just barely navigated the paths of the village. "Another benefit of shopping at the village is that there is no concern about traffic," said Capaze, "and it is safe and secure." The ultimate goal of Olde Lafayette Village, Capaze concluded, is to be a shopping center where anyone can get a massage and hair style, drop off the dog for grooming, have lunch, and pick up a child's birthday gift all in one shopping venture.