Our Story

Maker + Muse is an independent jewelry, gift and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Maplewood Village, New Jersey.

Our story began in 2003, when Mary Ann Spencer and Joyce Baldinucci opened The Tenth Muse Gallery and created a local destination for artisan-made jewelry, gifts and home accents. Brian Dittmar purchased the shop in 2018 and, drawing on his background in graphic and interior design, introduced Maker + Muse in 2019 as the next chapter in its story.

Today, Brian personally curates an ever-changing mix of handmade and artisan jewelry, women's accessories, home décor, art, apothecary, paper goods and distinctive gifts from independent makers in New Jersey, across the United States and beyond.

The common thread is simple: beautiful design, quality craftsmanship and pieces that feel personal rather than mass-produced.

Whether you're shopping for someone special or yourself, we want Maker + Muse to be the place where you discover something you weren't expecting — and can't stop thinking about.