Shop Talk : Winter wonderland
By Katryn Yerdon
Published: December 31, 2009
The snow has flown; the holidays and the year are at a close, but thank goodness they're the only things coming to a close. While it is an annual tradition that numerous businesses close for the winter season, we still have some awesome, on-Island shopping for those anniversaries, birthdays, and daily needs. Keep in mind though that it is winter, so call ahead to some of the specialty shops before you go as they do have more limited hours than in the summer.
Laughing Bear in Oak Bluffs, one of several women's clothing stores open year-round. Photo by Mae Deary If you see I have missed a year-round store, or you want to share a great find, write to me and let me know. Make sure to put your name, the store's name, and any good ideas as we Islanders always appreciate a tip.
Edgartown is a great year-round town, with daily needs stores like Edgartown Hardware, Granite, and Trader Fred's, who always has some awesome deals, from clothing to fishing. Our desire for bling is covered by Claudia's and Vintage Jewelry.
Traditional yet gorgeous offerings at Edgartown Scrimshaw, spirit-lifting music from Aboveground Records, and Henley's Needlepoint to help us wile away the quiet times of winter.
Oak Bluffs is not only a summer destination. Basics will cloth and keep your family warm this winter season, along with Laughing Bear, which will make every woman look like a million dollars. Phillips Hardware has all your household needs and is right next door to Reliable Market that has the greatest meat department. On that cold snowy day where Fido is insisting on going out, why not make a visit to Good Dog Goods for a special toy instead of freezing on that extra walk? Need some fun games to pass the time? Lazy Frog has all you need to stir up some excitement on game night. For looking good and feeling good, The Secret Garden, Sanctuary, and Rouge Luxe Apothecary are the places to be.
Vineyard Haven, our home of year-round accessibility, never disappoints. Leslie's Drugstore, Vineyard Scripts, ECO-MV, Trader Fred's, Brickman's, East Chop Sleep Shop, Bramhall & Dunn and the Green Room will keep us healthy and cozy at home. Specialty stores like Rainy Day, Moonstone, Bunch of Grapes, Sports Haven, Beadniks, and Island Music will keep us entertained through the long, cold winter.
For those who thought all up-Island stores were closed, think again: there's the always fantastic array at Alley's General Store. Not to be outdone is Conroy Apothecary, which not only offers great home health aids, but a fine selection of gifts, including a fantastic selection of cards that mom and I could pass an enjoyable hour perusing.
Don't forget to write in your ideas. You might see your name and/or idea in print. Thank you all for a great 2009 and Happy New Year to you and yours.
