More often than not, we hear of local shops shutting their doors, so it was great news to learn of…read moreWeekend Kitchen's move and expansion. We love this destination in Essex for all kinds of kitchen accoutrements, and we love it even more now. Nancy Kirkiles has a knack for mixing vintage finds with kitchen necessities, and the new, larger space has allowed her to flex her merchandising muscles. You'll find an extensive selection of her lovely letterpressed cards on thick stock (and you'll want to stock up), plus a tempting mix of vintage glassware, interesting cookbooks, antique cleavers, teeny silver spoons, crystal salt cellars, linen aprons, essentials for baking; an entire batterie de cuisine. If you're on a spring cleaning rampage, head here for natural bristle brushes and potions with names like "Boys Bathroom" and Superlative Hand Soap. Over the years, Nancy has developed a talented team of collaborators. If you've been to one of her cooking classes or pop-up dinners, you'll know what I'm talking about. Chef Paul Barron will continue to offer classes and dinners through Weekend Kitchen (coming up: Potato Gnocchi and Easy Thai), plus home chef services and (coming soon) grab-and-go meals. You'll find Plenty of Cake, literally. Lesley Moore's imaginative treats will be available and by custom order (her gluten free versions may just be the best I've had), and a refrigerator case is on the way, to be stocked with Arethusa Farm's ridiculous fresh butter, milk, and cheese. I've been known to race over pre-party for a last minute ladle or gravy boat; now I'll just have so many more reasons to visit.

Very nice store with lots of nice things but sales person was NOT wearing a mask. It made me quite…read moreuncomfortable as the store has aisles that are a little tight.

This is a second location of Mystic Knotwork. This brand is family owned and founded in 1957. We…read morewalked by it and I had to stop in. I love the sailor bracelets and think it's a beautiful classic accessory. This store is in a cute building that has a small lighthouse design on the exterior. There were an array of items to choose from. Whether you're buying items to decorate your home or accessories to wear. There are classic bracelet styles to ones with a hook or anchor. For home, there are coasters, wreaths, and more. There are keychains, pet toys, etc. We enjoyed shopping around the store. We bought two bracelets and an anklet. There was a person making these items in store. It's well crafted and lovely; there were many colors to choose from too. If you're in Mystic, it's worth a stop to get a souvenir there!

Really, a knot store? Them my wife in excitement exclaims "Yes!!"…read more Apparently this is something that has been going on for years where you get a knot bracelet or anklet and wear it throughout the entire summer. At the end of summer you cut it off leaving only the tan line behind as a memory of another summer past. This store has every color and size you can imagine and if they don't have it, they'll simply make it for you right then and there. The staff is amazing. The owner made my NY Mets bracelet and let me know that this store is generational and not a chain. Bracelets & Anklets vary in price from $7-12.50 as the get more intricate. They also have a ton of other knot work products like dog toys, table stuff, etc. Overall, this place is a must see if in Mystic.

Have you been shopping online due to the closing of many stores? There is a hidden gem in…read moreStonington. It's appropriately named because when you enter the store there are many treasures: clothing, linens, kitchen items, cards, and lots more. Need a gift? This is the place to find it. Most items come from closeouts and samples and you will find that they are designer and popular name brands. The owner and staff are very welcoming and helpful. It might be your first time in but wont be your last!

Fun Company is a fun place to shop! Nice selection of women's clothing, linens, quilts, kitchen…read moreaccessories, candles, quality toys and humorous gifts that are great for birthdays or stocking stuffers. I've purchased several Barbara Gerwit beach cover-ups at great prices! The main store is located on Cutler St where there is a small parking lot and on-street parking. They have another store on Water St. in quaint Stonington Borough. A great place to visit!

Loved this store although many of the styles for the same things that I wore in the 70s. But they…read morenever went out of style and I still like them. Fun store to look around in to see what they have and what you can find. It's a nice place to go when you're out for a road and looking for something fun to do. It's unique and interesting and it smells like the 70s to me.

I visited this quaint little shop in Charleston Rhode Island . I purchased a tapestry that I fell…read morein love with . When I arrived at home I took it out of the packaging and saw there was some damage to the piece. I called the shop and they were so kind and apologized . Even though it wasn't their fault. When I asked to have it replaced they said it was the last one and I could return it for a full refund or the would discount it for me. I said what I really wanted was a new one. The owner actually ordered more just for me. The customer service was beyond my expectations. They kept in touch with me thru texts . Letting me know they were still waiting for the delivery. When they received there shipment I got a call right away . I was so delighted when I picked up my tapestry. They opened it and made sure it was perfect. They have a beautiful shop and I look forward to my next visit. Exceptional service and treasures to be found.

I've never seen my mom happier than when she was in this store. The employees were so kind and…read morehelpful, really taking the time to help her find exactly what she was looking for and thoughtfully showcasing different products. The whole space looked beautiful and smelled amazing, Such a lovely store and experience overall.

I love coming to the Becca Rose shop and getting the dragons blood soap! All of her soap smells so…read moregood. I can never decide on which one I want. You can find jewelry, books, tarot cards

This is such a cute little gift shop on Main Street in Old Saybrook. You'll find all sorts of…read moreunique bags, cards, jewelry, scarves and other assorted nick-nacks. I really liked the bull dog behind the counter, I'm sure he must have smelled my pug on me and started wagging his tail like crazy. I didn't score anything the day I came in but I'm sure if you need to buy a gift suddenly, and you're in the area, SWAG is a great spot for such a need.

Move over HomeGoods there's a new kid in town…read more This place is pretty amazing if you like Pier 1 and HomeGoods you have to check this place out. On my walks down main street I always stop here to check out what new things they have.

Situated in downtown Mystic, on the other side of the river; this is a must see venue…read more You'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful hand blown glassware, wooden kitchen tools and cutting boards, ceramics, and some jewelry; much of it has a nautical theme, Plenty of housewarming ideas at several price points. It's hard to make up your mind; they are all museum quality. There's no hard sell from the staff.

Company of Craftsman is a beautiful store filled with a variety of handmade items. Some of the…read moreitems are made by locals, others are a bit farther, but everything is America made! This store is in the center of the of the cutest town in Connecticut, Mystic. I didn't even know where to look when I walked inside, there were so many beautiful, unique peices. The cutting boards, and other kitchen tools are so tastefully made that I would keep them as decor. They have beautiful sterling silver jewelry, from earrings to bangles. There's some stunning pottery, as well as hand blown glassware. As expected most of the items are a bit pricey, but not outrageous. Their packaging is gift ready! You're sure to impress who ever is lucky enough to receive a gift from such a charming little store.

I'm not sure how it is possible how I haven't rated the velvet mill yet when it's literally my…read moresmall business Saturday tradition to come here with my friends and spend at least 4-6 hours shopping and eating here. Some of the best local shops in the state are located here, and I think it's one of the best kept hidden gems in the state for sure (and now everyone knows so be sure to go to help support). It's one of those IYKYK spots I feel like. There's something for everyone here, and I love how they've turned this into the spot it is.

This is a great little indoor mall with tons of little artisan shops, boutiques, professional Svcs…read more& food purveyors. They often have events here. Summer they have a wkly farmers mkt outside. There are often music events inside too. It's quite large but very charming with a huge array of different businesses. &mi love it & try to get over there when we I am in the mystic area. It is dog friendly & has several public restrooms. The pizza & bakery are my 2 FAVORITES!