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23-Year-Old Doll Business Continues To Thrive In Emerson

EMERSON, N.J. -- What started out as a hobby has turned into a full-fledged business -- 23 years strong -- for Josephine Ursulli.

Jo's Dollhouse in Emerson is a destination for serious doll collectors.

Jo's Dollhouse in Emerson is a destination for serious doll collectors.

Photo Credit: Submitted
Emerson resident Josephine Ursillo makes many of the dolls on display.

Emerson resident Josephine Ursillo makes many of the dolls on display.

Photo Credit: Submitted
Numerous lifelike dolls fill the interior of Jo's Dollhouse in Emerson.

Numerous lifelike dolls fill the interior of Jo's Dollhouse in Emerson.

Photo Credit: Submitted

Ursulli said she used to make porcelein dolls at home but then realized she could do more by opening a store.

She also, she admitted, wanted to get out of the house.

Now, her business, Jo's Dollhouse in Emerson, has become a go-to destination for serious doll collectors.

Ursulli, who had been in Westwood for five years before moving to her current location 18 years ago, also does a big online business.

Her specialty is vinyl dolls. She said it's amazing to watch a blank piece of vinyl be molded into a lifelike baby. 

Ursulli's store, which resembles a filled to capacity nursery, also sells teddy bears and other gifts.

She's branched out, she said, because doll collecting has cooled a bit in popularity. 

Still, the Emerson resident remains busy, opening her store Wednesday through Saturday and by appointment. 

Jo's Dollhouse is at 193 Kinderkamack Rd., (201) 634-0424.

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