The end of the year is quickly approaching and for many, it’s an exceptionally busy time. Calendars are booked with events, social engagements, community activities and best of all - celebrations! There's a lot of fun to be had, but all of the activity may leave you in a last-minute rush. Now is the time to shop local - enjoy the convenience of gathering everything you need close to home and support small business along the Adirondack Coast at the same time! Whether you’re looking for gifts, decorations, a take-along item for a get-together, or picking up something special just for yourself, you’ll find an amazing selection of locally grown and handcrafted items along the Adirondack Coast. Here are a few highlights:
Maiden by the Lake
One of the most creative, inspirational small businesses around is Maiden by the Lake, owned by Pam Lemza Putnam. One of Pam’s specialties is upcycling, creating amazing one of a kind items by re-purposing, re-imagining and re-loving vintage and antique items. You can find many of Pam’s whimsical treasures for sale at Tromblee’s Greenhouse in Crown Point, where along with the selection of delightful handcrafted items, you’ll find the children’s book Champ – The little plesiosaur. This imaginative and delightful story follows some of Champ’s adventures along the Adirondack Coast. The book was written and illustrated by Pam, and includes her incredible photo and watercolor creations. The book makes a great gift for people of all ages (who can resist a tale about our favorite lake creature?) Maiden by the Lake also offers classes and events, where you can have loads of fun crafting your own creations – keep an eye out for new additions to the class schedule!
North Road Soap Co.
In Ticonderoga, North Road Soap Co, owned by Cody Lang, hand-crafts luxurious soaps, sugar scrubs, balms, bubble bars, and more – perfect for gifting and enjoying at any time of year. You'll find lots to love about the ever-growing and ever-changing line of scents and products offered by this Adirondack Coast business. Cody's unique and delightful creations are available to order online and and ship to lucky recipients, or you can browse a selection of products in-person at shops throughout the Adirondack region. Close to home, you'll find North Road Soap Co. products at The Adirondack Trading Post in Ticonderoga, Blees Floral Design in Crown Point, and Hunter Way Farm in Moriah.
Triple Green Jade Farm
Looking for a take-along item for a get-together or a loaf of fresh bread to go with supper? In Willsboro, Triple Green Jade Farm offers a selection of hand-made, wood-fired artisan breads and baked goods that they create using only local and organic grains and ingredients. Shop online for a selection of breads and other goodies like cookies, crackers, bagels, rolls, pasta, pizza dough, spiced nuts and more – and pick up at the farm! If you're looking for a unique local outing or a gift to give to someone special (maybe even yourself!), check out the upcoming classes, workshops, tours and farm-to-table dinners, and consider purchasing a CSA share.
Local maple
For a truly sweet gifting option, look no further than locally-produced maple products, available throughout the Lake Champlain region. Ticonderoga Natural Foods Co-Op stocks a bevy of Adirondack-produced maple products, along with many other locally-made items. You'll find Spout Time Maple products and other seasonal goodies at Meadow & Mountain Farm in Moriah. Reber Rock Farm in Essex, provides local, organic pasture-raised meats and maple syrup – shop online and pick up at the farm or have your order delivered to your door!
Brews and spirits
Locally-crafted brews and spirits make a great gift or take-along to a holiday get together. Ausable Brewing in Keesville is open until December 23rd. Stop by and pick up pints, cans and cool merchandise! You’ll also want to visit Ledge Hill Brewing in Ticonderoga to take a breather and enjoy a brew and a bite to eat. On your way out, grab a crowler (or two, or more!) to go. War Cannon Spirits, now open in Crown Point, is definitely worth a stop, where you’ll find locally made spirits, wines, mead, and cider, along with gift cards, fun merchandise, soaps and more!
After a flurry of gathering and crossing things off your list, make sure to take a little time for yourself and visit one of the many local restaurants to refuel, recharge, and plan your next activity in the Lake Champlain region!