How to Negotiate with Wedding Vendors

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The days leading up to the happiest day of your life can quickly become stressful as the costs of your wedding vendors start to add up. Let’s face it – weddings are expensive. If you and your partner are fronting the bill, it might be among the costliest purchases you will ever have to make as a couple. It’s common to negotiate on the price of certain big ticket item purchases, such as your car or a home – why not negotiate with your wedding vendors, too? As with many things in life, there is a right way and a wrong way to go about it. While you want to have the wedding of your dreams, wedding vendors also rely on their business for their livelihood. Here are some ways to thoughtfully and respectfully negotiate with wedding vendors for your special day.

Do Your Research

Before you contact any potential wedding vendors, and certainly before you negotiate with them – do your research. Once you have identified potential vendors, read their reviews. Reviews will offer a glimpse into the vendor’s offerings, the quality of their services, and the prices that others have paid. Finding out the average price you can expect to pay – will set your expectations as to what an appropriate price range is, ensure that you approach any negotiations thoughtfully, and know when to identify a good deal.

The research doesn’t stop when you begin meeting with wedding vendors. Collect quotes from several that you are considering working with. Whether the vendor is offering a package or individual services, compare prices to identify which has the best-priced option. This can be beneficial if you are considering a counteroffer, as you can explain what you were expecting for the service they are offering.

Honesty is the Best Policy

When you begin meeting with potential wedding vendors, be truthful about your budget. Also ask the vendor to be upfront with you about what is included in their service, as it would not be recommended to negotiate without having a clear understanding about what you are being offered. Being honest with a vendor will ensure that you are not only being respectful of their time, but will also allow you to make an appropriate decision about hiring them and determining if negotiating on the price is appropriate. If you find that a vendor isn’t being clear about their pricing, take control of the situation and ask specific questions. For example – asking a florist, “Can you provide a flower package that fits the parameters we’ve discussed for $5,000?” will force a yes or no answer.

In discussing your budget and expectations, it is important to be considerate of the vendor and their business. This is where good research comes in – don’t meet with wedding vendors that clearly won’t be able to make your dreams a reality within your desired price range. If you were to suggest a budget that is much lower than what their services are typically priced at, it might suggest that you haven’t considered the time, effort, and expertise which go into the vendor’s offering. The more honest you are about your budget and expectations, the more likely it is that you can find one who can provide the service you are looking for.

Don’t Be Afraid to Compromise

Being willing to compromise can help you save when negotiating with wedding vendors. This can be done in two ways – by identifying things you do not need or by substituting for more affordable options. A good way to identify parts of the vendor’s offering you do not need can be creating a wants vs. needs list. Anything you identify as a need, you probably won’t want to compromise on for your special day. However, those wants can help you identify areas of potential savings and where you can cut back. For example, if you don’t have a preference as to having sit-down service or a buffet as catering options – go with the less expensive option. Or if you need a wedding photographer, but don’t want the pictures to be in any specific format – getting digital copies as opposed to printed copies could save you some money.

If the wedding vendor is open to substitutions, consider replacing some of the pricier options for more cost-effective ones. For example, if your florist came up with the idea of putting roses in your centerpieces, but you were looking for a more cost-effective flower – consider asking your florist to make that substitution.

Negotiating can be uncomfortable at first, but if you approach the conversations with respect, consideration, and sincerity – you might be surprised at the different ways wedding vendors may be willing to work with you. If you have been considering options to help with your wedding budget, consider our Financial Helper Loan. With low rates, fixed payments, and personalized service – you can say “I do” with less worry. For more information, contact First Financial’s Loan Department at 732.312.1500 Option 4 or visit a local branch.

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Actual rate will vary based on creditworthiness and loan term. Subject to credit approval. Personal Loan repayment terms range from 12 to 60 months, and APRs range from 10.24% APR to 18% APR. Minimum loan amount is $500. Loan payment example: A $2,000 Personal Loan financed at 10.24% APR for 24 months, would have a monthly payment amount of $92.51. A First Financial Federal Credit Union membership is required to obtain a Personal Loan or Line of Credit, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. 

How Much Should You Spend on Work Clothing?

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Whether you are building your professional wardrobe from scratch or trying to keep up as rules and trends surrounding workplace attire evolve – purchasing work clothes can get tricky. Aside from figuring out how to budget for your work wardrobe, you are likely considering what clothing pieces will make you look and feel your best – and what apparel fits into your company’s dress code. Although it’s important to “dress for success,” it is equally important to set a clothing budget that doesn’t break the bank.

What’s a Good Clothing Budget?

The clothing you wear is one of the first things someone will notice about you, and can make a significant impact on their first impression of you. A clothing budget can help ensure that you won’t go into debt while curating that first impression. According to Business Insider, personal finance experts suggest that your clothing budget should not exceed 5% of your take home income. This means that you should aim to spend 5% or less of your take home income on work and casual clothing every year. For example, someone who takes home $1,500 every two weeks ($3,000 per month) should not spend more than $150 per month ($1,800 per year) on clothing. The simple equation of your monthly take home pay multiplied by 5% – can help you figure out just what that monthly figure is. You can then multiply it by 12 to figure out the maximum you should spend in a given year. Understanding what 5% of your take home income is on a monthly and yearly basis, can help you track your spending on clothing.

For those who are building their professional wardrobe from scratch, expect to spend more on clothing initially. This can include “the basics,” which are core, versatile pieces of clothing that will become essential to your wardrobe (for example: a pair of black pants or a cardigan that you can mix and match with different blouses). Lauren Bowling of Financial Best Life suggests you can spend 7% of your take home income, only if you are shopping for an entirely new wardrobe. After you build out your new work wardrobe – you will simply be doing “maintenance,” and likely won’t need to purchase as many new items all at once.

How Can I Save When Shopping for Clothing?

Limiting your clothing budget to 5% of your take home income might sound like a challenge, but it’s a challenge that can be made easier with some simple tips.

  • Take Inventory of Your Wardrobe Before You Shop: Having a clear idea of what’s in your closet can help you stick to your clothing budget. It can help you avoid making impulse purchases, keep the pieces you really need top-of-mind, and help you avoid buying items you already own. Additionally, by identifying items that are missing from or need to be replaced in your wardrobe – you can act on any good deals you might see.
  • Shop Secondhand: Not only is shopping secondhand eco-friendly, but it’s also budget-friendly. Shopping secondhand can help you find high-quality items for a fraction of their original sticker price. Pre-owned clothing items aren’t necessarily being sold because they were bad quality or damaged – they might have simply served their purpose to their original owner, who now wants someone else to enjoy it as much as they did!
  • Invest in Quality, Not Quantity: Purchasing low quality items will have you running to the store more frequently to replace them. In the end, the $20 shirt you purchased might cost you $40 if you only wear it for six months before having to purchase a new one. Investing in more expensive, high-quality pieces can ensure you go longer without having to replace items you frequently wear.
  • Take Advantage of Credit Card Rewards: Credit card rewards are a great way to get a bonus for the things you’re already doing – most likely including shopping for clothes. Those points or cash back really add up, and can be put toward your shopping bill. First Financial’s Signature Cash Plus Credit Card offers 1% cash back on unlimited purchases, along with uChoose Rewards – redeemable for travel, merchandise, gift cards, and more.* Your points can turn into a gift card at a major retailer, be used through PayPal when you add your card to your wallet, and reduce the “damage” from your next shopping trip.

It’s inevitable that you will need to spend money on work clothing – especially when starting a new job, but a budget can help make the inevitable more manageable. Remember, the 5% rule is a general rule of thumb. Although 5% of your take home income might seem like it won’t go a long way, those budget-conscious shopping trips will eventually have your wardrobe – and wallet, feeling fuller.

For more money management tips – make an appointment at your local branch, check out our website resources page, or subscribe to our First Scoop blog.

*APR varies up to 18% for the Visa® Signature Cash Plus Card when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. Your First Financial Visa® Signature Cash Plus Credit Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1% cash back based upon eligible purchases each quarter.

Life Insurance in Retirement

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What role can life insurance play in your retirement plan? Most of us think of life insurance as protection against financial loss should we die prematurely. But when we reach retirement and the kids are all self-sufficient, do we still need life insurance? The answer is maybe. Here are some situations where life insurance may make sense for retirees or those close to retirement.

Provide a Source of Retirement Income

While life insurance is designed to protect against unexpected economic loss, cash value life insurance also may provide a source of income during retirement. Earnings on the cash value accumulate tax-deferred, and in some instances, cash-value distributions can be received income tax-free. However, loans used to access cash values from a life insurance policy will reduce the policy’s cash value and death benefit, could increase the chance that the policy will lapse, and might result in a tax liability if the policy terminates before the death of the insured.

Help Pay for Long-Term Care

Some cash value life insurance policies provide multiple sources of protection. Along with the death benefit and potential cash value, these policies may also provide a long-term care benefit. Often, these policies allow for a portion or all of the death benefit to be “accelerated” if used for the payment of qualifying medical and long-term care expenses.

Provide for a Dependent Family Member

Sometimes, even in retirement, there are family members who depend on you for financial and/or custodial support. Should you die unexpectedly, life insurance may help provide funds needed to support dependent family members with disabilities.

Replace Income for a Surviving Spouse

While Social Security provides retirement income for many of us, at the death of a spouse, his or her benefits end, reducing the total benefits available to the surviving spouse. Life insurance can be used to replace the loss of income for the surviving spouse.

Pay Off Debt

While past generations often retired with little or no debt, it is not uncommon for today’s retirees to leave the workforce while still carrying a mortgage, car loan, and credit card debt. Life insurance can provide the cash to pay off these debts, which is especially beneficial for a surviving spouse.

Help Cover Final Expenses

Unfortunately, the expense of dying is often overlooked or underestimated. Uninsured medical bills, funeral costs, debts, and estate administration costs can add up. Typically, these expenses are paid in a lump sum, which can reduce savings for surviving spouses and dependent family members. Proceeds from life insurance can be used to help pay for these final expenses, which may help preserve savings for other needs.

Leave a Legacy

For many approaching retirement, as well as for those already there, a primary concern is having enough money to live comfortably. While conserving savings and keeping track of spending in retirement are important, all too often retirees will forgo spending on themselves in order to fulfill a desire to leave a legacy. Having life insurance can help you feel freer to spend more in retirement because you know you’ll be leaving something behind for your loved ones.

Life insurance provides protection for your family’s financial future should you die during your working years. However, life insurance may provide other benefits that can be useful during your retirement. Whether life insurance should be part of your retirement plan is best determined based on your individual circumstances and goals. You may want to talk with an insurance or financial professional before making this decision.

The cost and availability of life insurance depend on factors such as age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Before implementing a strategy involving life insurance, it would be prudent to make sure that you are insurable. As with most financial decisions, there are expenses associated with the purchase of life insurance. Policies commonly have mortality and expense charges. In addition, if a policy is surrendered prematurely there may be surrender charges and income tax implications. Any guarantees associated with payment of death benefits, income options, or rates of return are based on the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the insurer.

Questions about this topic? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional. LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial. Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

Received a Package You Didn’t Order? Brushing and QR Code Scams

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Have you received a surprise package at your doorstep recently? Packages from an unknown sender, especially those including a QR code – are likely part of a dangerous new brushing scam. With new scam tactics evolving constantly, knowing what to look out for and how to respond is important. At First Financial, we’re here to help you recognize these schemes and protect your personal and financial information.

What is a Brushing Scam?

A brushing scam is when someone receives packages they didn’t order, often low-cost or counterfeit items like beauty products or small electronics, from a seller trying to boost their online reputation. The scammer uses the recipient’s personal information (often obtained through data leaks) to create fake customer reviews, falsely increasing the legitimacy of their product listings. While the merchandise may seem harmless, the real concern is that your personal information – name, address, or even online account details, have likely been compromised.

The New Twist: QR Code Scams in Packages

Scammers are now also including QR codes in these unexpected packages. The note may say the QR code will reveal who sent the gift, provide return instructions, or offer a bonus or prize. But in reality, scanning the code could redirect you to a phishing website designed to steal sensitive information like your login credentials or credit card number. Even worse, it may install malware on your device, giving hackers access to your data and apps.

How to Protect Yourself from QR Code and Package Scams

Don’t Scan Unfamiliar QR Codes: If you receive a package you didn’t order, avoid scanning any QR codes inside. These can be designed to mimic legitimate company branding and lead to fake websites that steal personal data.

Check Your Online Shopping Accounts: If the package came from a known platform like Amazon or eBay, login to your account and look for any unauthorized orders. If you see suspicious activity, change your password immediately and report the fraud to the platform.

Change Your Passwords: It’s a good idea to update your passwords on shopping accounts and your email if you received a suspicious package. Always use strong, unique passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication for extra security.

Don’t Contact the “Sender”: Don’t attempt to reach out, even if a name, phone number, or website is included in the package. Scammers may use this opportunity to trick you into providing more personal details under the guise of resolving the issue.

Monitor Your Credit and Accounts: Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit report and look for any unfamiliar accounts or inquiries. Also, check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.

Consider Freezing Your Credit or Adding a Fraud Alert: If you believe your personal information may be at risk, take additional steps like placing a fraud alert on your credit report or freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

Keep Devices Secure and Updated: Ensure your phone and computer software are continuously updated with the latest security patches. A secure device is your first line of defense against malware and phishing attempts.

Use Trusted QR Scanner Apps: If you must scan a QR code, use a QR code scanner app that shows you the destination URL before redirecting you. This provides a chance to spot suspicious links before it’s too late.

What to Do if You Think You’ve Been Scammed

If you received an unsolicited package, scanned a QR code, or noticed suspicious activity on your accounts:

  • Change your passwords immediately – Update and strengthen passwords for your financial and email accounts right away.
  • Contact your financial institution – Report the incident and monitor for any unauthorized transactions.
  • Monitor your credit – Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit report and closely check for suspicious inquiries or accounts.
  • File a report with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and, if necessary, start a recovery plan at IdentityTheft.gov.

Stay Safe with First Financial

We’re dedicated to helping our members stay informed and protected from scams. If you ever suspect fraud or have concerns about any of your accounts, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit one of our local branches.

Financial Considerations Before You Go Solar

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Switching to solar power can be a smart move for your wallet and the planet. But before you dive into solar panel installation, there are several important financial and practical considerations to keep in mind. At First Financial, we want you to make the best choice for your home and budget. Here’s what to think about before you decide to make the switch.

1. Is Solar Worth it for You?

Whether solar makes sense for you depends on many factors, including your current electric costs, your finances, your home’s potential, and how long you plan to stay there. Start by calculating your average monthly electric bill over the past year. Then, use online tools like Google Project Sunroof, EnergySage, or SolarReviews to estimate your home’s solar potential. These types of calculators factor in your roof size, orientation, and shading to project how much energy your panels could generate and when you might break even on your investment.

Keep in mind that estimates can vary widely between tools, so use them as a guide rather than a guarantee. If you plan to move within a few years, installing solar may not offer the potential savings you need to justify the upfront cost.

2. Is Your Roof Ready?

Before you invest in solar, assess the condition of your roof. If your roof is older and in need of repairs or a replacement within the next few years, it’s best to take care of this before installation. Otherwise, you might face the costly process of removing and reinstalling your panels. Ideally, your roof and solar panels should have similar life spans. Solar panels often come with a 20–25 year warranty, so it’s smart to ensure your roofing material will last a similar amount of time to avoid added expenses later.

3. Shop Around for the Right Installer

Don’t settle for the first solar installer you find. Collect multiple quotes and research each company’s reputation, certifications, and customer reviews. Comparing options will help you find the best value and ensure you’re working with a trustworthy provider. A quality installer will also be able to walk you through financing options, local incentives, and what you can expect in terms of performance and maintenance.

4. How to Compare Solar Proposals

When reviewing solar proposals, focus on these key points:

  • Price Per Watt: Lower cost per watt typically means a better deal.
  • Warranties: Look for 25 year panel warranties and 10–25 year inverter warranties.
  • Rated Power: Aim for panels with 420W to 440W for better efficiency.
  • Annual Production Estimates: Consider whether the system will meet 100% of your current energy use, and its ability to cover more if you add an electric vehicle or appliances.
  • Equipment Quality: Research solar panels and inverters. Microinverters are generally preferred over string inverters for better reliability.

Choosing high-quality components and a reliable installer will help maximize your investment and system performance.

5. Ensure Proper Insurance Coverage

Solar panel installation can impact your homeowner’s insurance. Before starting your project, contact your insurer to confirm your policy covers potential damages during and after installation. Some cities and states also require proof of insurance to approve solar projects, so make sure you meet all local requirements before moving forward.

6. Don’t Miss Out on Rebates and Incentives

The federal solar tax credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes, available through 2033. That’s a substantial savings, and it applies regardless of the amount you spend, your income level, or whether you itemize deductions.

Some states and local governments offer additional incentives, like property tax exemptions or cash rebates. Research all the available programs in your area to maximize your savings. Keep in mind that you must purchase your system to qualify for the federal tax credit — leasing disqualifies you from this benefit.

7. Financing Your Solar Investment

Solar panels can be a big upfront expense, but financing options can make it manageable. Using a First Financial Home Equity Loan can be a smart and affordable way to fund your project.*

Features of our Home Equity Loans:

  • Competitive rates
  • No pre-payment penalties
  • No application fees
  • No points or closing costs
  • Flexible terms up to 20 years
  • Fixed monthly payments

We can provide the funds you need while keeping your payments predictable.

Thinking About Going Solar? We’re Here to Help.

At First Financial, we’re committed to helping our members make smart financial choices. Whether you’re exploring solar or other home improvements, we have the tools and expertise to support your goals. Ready to learn more? Call us at 732.312.1500, visit a local branch, or apply online.

*First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and the borrower(s) will be required to pay back closing costs in full to FFFCU. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Equity Loan, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See FFFCU for details or visit firstffcu.com for all current rates. Rates for financing up to 80% of Appraised Value less other Mortgages.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this May 2025

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April showers not only brought May flowers, but they brought free and inexpensive activities to enjoy with your family and friends in Monmouth and Ocean Counties all month long.

May 3

Boujee Foodiecon (Oceanport) – If you consider yourself a “foodie” and want to sample some adventurous bites, head over to Fort Monmouth from 12:30pm-7pm on May 3rd or 12:30pm-6pm on May 4th. With appearances from over 40 vendors, as well as family-friendly games and music all day – this event will have something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, with children 10 and under being free to attend. This event will be held rain or shine. Click here to purchase tickets and view the list of vendors.

Cinco de Mayo Celebration (Toms River) – Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Downtown Toms River on Washington Street from 12pm-6pm. The vendors, music, food, and drinks will give you a taste of authentic Mexican culture and cuisine without having to leave Toms River. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information.

Made in Monmouth (Lincroft) – Made in Monmouth is making it easier than ever to shop local, bringing together over 250 Monmouth County vendors from 10am-4pm at the Robert J. Collins Arena & Recreation Events Center at Brookdale Community College. Selling everything from home décor to baked goods, jewelry and craft beverages – you can shop while supporting Monmouth County’s small businesses. Entry is free for all to attend. For more information, click here.

Ocean County Children’s Festival (Toms River) – Bring your little ones down to the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library from 11am-3pm for a fun-filled day. This event promises to have indoor and outdoor programs and activities geared toward children, as well as resources and community connections for families. All children who attend will have the chance to make an original piece of art to take home. The event is free for all to attend, and registration is not required. Click here for additional information.

May 10

Designer Bag Bingo (Surf City) – If playing bingo isn’t enticing enough, you have the chance of winning a designer bag when you play at the Surf City Volunteer Firehouse – with doors opening at 4:30pm and games beginning at 6pm. In addition to bingo, there will be a 50/50 raffle, designer wristlet/wallet raffles, and other raffle baskets to win if you purchase additional tickets. Admission is $35 and includes 13 rounds of bingo and a door prize ticket. If you don’t play, you can’t win – click here to learn more information and try to make that designer bag yours.

May 11

iPlay America Moms Play Free (Freehold) – Treat your mom to a day of fun at iPlay America, opening at 11am on Mother’s Day. Moms get a free 2-hour unlimited video game pass, $10 bonus card, and a carnation flower all day long. Other attendees can add ride, game, or arcade packages to join in on the fun with mom. Click here for additional information.

Spring Bazaar (Asbury Park) – If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the mothers of all kinds in your life, bring them down to Convention Hall from 12pm-5pm on May 10th, and to Convention Hall and the Asbury Hotel from 12pm-5pm on May 11th. This weekend promises to be full of shopping from local makers, fresh flower bouquets, photos in front of unique stations, delicious food and libations (for those 21+), and live music. There is no entrance fee for all to attend, and there will be various goodies from vendors available for sale. Click here to view a sneak-peak of Mother’s Day weekend at the Spring Bazaar.

May 12

Dave & Buster’s Grand Opening (Freehold) – Join in on the fun at the Dave & Buster’s Grand Opening at the Freehold Raceway Mall at 11am. A longtime staple of family-friendly entertainment and dining, Dave & Buster’s brings together classic and modern arcade games and a full-service restaurant and bar under one roof. The first 100 people in line at the exterior entrance will get free gameplay all day. Click here to learn more about how you and your loved ones can be part of the Dave & Buster’s Grand Opening.

May 16

Jazz Night (Belmar) – The Belmar Arts Center will transform into a lively jazz club from 7pm-10pm. Whether you want to groove out to some smooth tunes or bring your instrument to jump in on a musical number or two, Jazz Night is the place to be to indulge in the rhythms of jazz. You can also bring snacks and drinks (BYOB for those 21+) to enjoy during the evening. There is a $5 entrance fee for all who attend. You can find additional information and purchase tickets here.

May 17

Green Fair (Brick) – Although Earth Day has passed, Brick Township is giving you the chance to learn about how you can keep the Earth green, while putting more “green” back in your pocket from 10am-2pm at the Bob Anstett Cultural Arts Center. This community-wide event is geared toward inspiring people of all backgrounds to embrace sustainable living in budget-friendly ways. There will be educational exhibits, presentations, vendors, giveaways, and door prizes. Admission is free for all who attend. Click here to learn more.

May 18

Runaway Farm Animal Sanctuary Meet and Greet (Bayville) – Bring your family and friends to Runaway Farm from 11am-3pm to meet some furry and feathered friends and learn about the animal sanctuary’s mission. In addition to meeting the friendly faces of the animal sanctuary – there will be live music to enjoy, vendors to shop, baked goods to purchase, and fun giveaways as you explore the farm. Admission is free for all who attend. You can learn more here.

May 24

Memorial Day Bike Parade (Point Pleasant) – Point Pleasant is putting a unique spin on celebrating Memorial Day at 10am, beginning at the For Shore Pool Parking Lot. Everyone is invited to decorate their “wheels” whether they are bikes, strollers, or wagons – in red, white, and blue to march in the parade. If you are interested in participating, you are encouraged to meet in the parking lot at 9:30am. The parade will end with a service honoring our Fallen Heroes at Veteran’s Memorial Park by Little Silver Lake. Admission is free for all who attend. Click here to learn more.

Memorial Day Festival (Bradley Beach) – Bradley Beach is honoring those who have served our country all weekend long during their Memorial Day Festival, beginning on May 24th at 9am on Ocean Avenue and ending on May 26th at 11am at Riley Park. This festival will feature vendors, a parade, and a service. There will also be live entertainment from a variety of local artists all weekend long at the 5th Avenue Beachfront Gazebo. Admission is free for all who attend. Click here to learn how you can join – whether it’s for one, two, or all three of the festival days.

May 25

Sunday Funday at Double Trouble State Park (Bayville) – Enjoy a sunset hike and make a gift to honor our veterans on the night before Memorial Day at Double Trouble State Park, beginning at 7pm. The hike will introduce you to the Pine Barrens ecosystem and offer a window into its history. Since the event begins at 7pm, the park kindly encourages attendees to not only consider bug spray – but dress appropriately for the weather. Admission is free for all ages. Registration ahead of the event is not required. Click here for more information.

May 26

Memorial Day Parade (Farmingdale) – Join Farmingdale in celebrating and honoring those who have served our country at their 52nd Annual Memorial Day Parade, beginning at 1pm on Main Street. The streets of Farmingdale will come alive with music, dancing, classic cars, horse drawn carriages, and more. For the first time in the history of Farmingdale’s Memorial Day Parade, and for those who enjoy shopping – vendors will be selling their unique goods beginning at 11am. Children are encouraged to bring bags to collect thrown candy, and all attendees are encouraged to bring flags to wave as the floats ride by. Admission is free for all who attend. To learn more, click here.

Memorial Day Parade (Freehold) – Join in on the biggest and longest running Memorial Day Parade in Western Monmouth County at 10am, beginning at the corner of Brinkerhoff Avenue and Main Street. There will be countless organizations participating, each bringing different forms of entertainment and creative floats to enjoy with your family and friends. The parade will go all around town, offering plenty of viewing spots. To view the parade route and see how to get a bird’s-eye view, as well as get additional details – click here.

May 31

Ocean Grove Spring Market – You won’t need a metal detector to search for hidden treasures at the Spring Market, taking place at the Great Auditorium on Ocean Pathway from 9am-3pm. Ocean Grove welcomes vendors selling vintage, antique, handmade, and new items – making this event a shopper’s paradise. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for additional information.