When you’re a small fish in a big pond, it can be hard to create a big ripple. But when you team up with other small fish and work together, that’s when you can make the wave reach the shore.
So goes the theory that Blue Star Bazaar owner Megan LaBant Abrahamsen had when she came up with her idea for a gift guide. She teamed up with six other small Wilton business owners to put the guide together and encourage residents to shop local this holiday season.
The guide is an oversized, glossy, two-sided heavy-stock postcard designed to be very eye-catching when Wiltonians find it in their mailboxes this week. On one side is an array of images of gift ideas that the businesses are offering, and on the flip side are pictures of the owners themselves along with a profile about each woman and her business, as well as each one’s connection to the town.
It’s a savvy⎯as well as economical⎯move to help reinforce the message that shopping local really hits home with a direct impact on fellow Wilton residents running the local businesses.
“It can be quite expensive for small businesses to invest in advertising on their own. This is a great way to share the cost and let people see that there are a lot of unique gift options right here in our own town being created and sold by neighbors,” says Abrahamsen.
Key to the effort is that the group wants people to not only see the products they have to offer, but also let shoppers see the faces behind the businesses. It’s helpful for the businesses that have a physical location as well as those that aren’t brick-and-mortar and are only available online.
Also part of the guide is a space for shoppers to put an email address; returning the card with an email to one of the participating businesses by Dec. 24 enters the recipient into a raffle. What’s more, they’ve started a Facebook page for the collective, called Shop Local Wilton CT.
The gift guide will be delivered to Wilton homes today and tomorrow (Thursday, Nov. 5 and Friday, Nov. 6).
The participating businesses are:
Blue Star Bazaar
Owner⎯Megan Abrahamsen: Blue Star Bazaar is a boutique for women and kids offering clothing, jewelry, accessories, toys, books and gifts. Located on Rte. 7 across from Town Hall (237 Danbury Rd.). Abrahamsen grew up in Wilton and has returned to her hometown to raise her own family and build her business.
Judee Beardsley Framing (Traveling Framer)
Owner⎯Judee Beardsley: Beardsley is a traveling art framer, who brings along her 25 years of experience in the art framing business. She offers an affordable in-home service, traveling to customers’ homes and offering in-home consultations and great customer service. She does it all, from picking up the piece to be framed to returning it to the client, and everything in between. 203.505.9186
Nod Hill Soap
Owner⎯Catherine Romer: Pamper your skin. Nod Hill Soap is Wilton’s premier boutique for luxurious handmade soap and elegant bath and body products. Romer, owner and soap maker, blends beauty and science to create the perfect holiday gift. Located in Wilton Center, directly opposite the side-door (pharmacy) entrance to CVS (81 Old Ridgefield Rd.).
Painted Cookie
Owner⎯Susan Schmitt: Wilton resident Schmitt is the creator and owner of The Painted Cookie, A Nut-Free Cookie Shop. Her delicious, hand-decorated, custom designed and personalized cookies for holidays, corporate events, and special occasions have become a favorite throughout Fairfield County. Conveniently located on Rte. 7 next to Wilton Chevrolet (196 Danbury Rd.).
A Single Strand
Owner⎯Alice Woods: A Single Strand, founded in 2007 by Woods, is an accessory collection of 18-karat gold plated jewelry using pearls and precious stones, sterling silver, costume jewelry, scarves, wraps and hair accessories. Inspiration comes from classic styles, architectural details, nature and anything that evokes creative thought. www.asinglestrand.com
Southern Yankee
Owner⎯Jennifer Angerame: Angerame, owner of Souther Yankee, is a transplanted Texan raising her family in Wilton. She offers one-of-a-kind baby gifts made with vintage linens and other up-cycled fabrics. She added monogramming services to her business to make the gifts extra special. Use code “local” and get free local delivery. www.southernyankee.com
Wilton Artisans
Owner⎯Beth Crowell: Wilton Artisans creates jewelry for those who love the beauty of the sea. A Wilton resident for 10 years, Crowell designs authentic sea glass and coastal inspired jewelry with sea glass found around the world. Her work can be found online and at stores throughout the country. www.wiltonartisans.com
These Six Mompreaneurs ROCK !! Shop Wilton – Shop Often !!