A simply gorgeous gallery…read more I was fortunate to have visited the Melanie Carr Gallery on its opening night, viewing a friend's art displayed in the exhibition "Cool + Collected." In alignment with the exhibition's theme, the gallery was minimally decorated so as to let numerous works of art on the walls be the focal points. The owner, Melanie, herself was walking around throughout the reception to talk to guests and to discuss the artwork being displayed. I moseyed around the gallery, chatted with Melanie and a couple of the artists whose work was being displayed for a little bit, and struck up various conversations with other guests viewing the same pieces that I was. All art displayed was for sale and Melanie created sheets with lists containing the name of the work, the artist, and the cost for each piece. There was also additional work by the artists featured in the exhibition in a smaller pull-out drawer cabinet at the back of the main gallery space, which was accessed by the some of the artists throughout the time that I was there who were chatting with guests about their techniques and inspiration. This rectangular-shaped gallery is perfect for showcasing art. The gallery really set up an ideal space in which others could freely move and talk with one another. There's also an abundant amount of wall space and there is a small refreshment area with restrooms right in the back. When I visited for the opening night, there was champagne and fruit-flavored water along with all sorts of candy--yes, candy!! Melanie wanted to do something different--not your typical fancy cheese that no one knows what it is. The candy was a hit with everyone, so Melanie definitely nailed it [again] there. She utilizes every bit of the gallery's space well. For this gallery, there are only two downsides. First, I found it a little difficult to get to. My GPS had me stop in the middle of a roundabout right near the gallery--this with the address of the gallery itself set. I hadn't been to this area of Essex, so I found it hard to navigate. Luckily no one was around to get irritated with my slow and hesitant driving, and I subsequently saw the gallery's bright colors and sign soon after I came into the roundabout; I just kept going around the circle to pull up into a space on the gallery's street. (The gallery is left out of the roundabout, just as a heads up.) Parking is definitely not the easiest, which is the second downside. There's only a few spots on the street right out front and no nearby lots (that I could see). It may take going around the block a few times and hoping to spot a vacant parking spot on a nearby street if you come at a busy time. It's a really nice, definition-of-New-England town, so a little walk about is probably quite excellent anyway. All driving and parking issues are worth supporting this local gallery and the local artists it showcases. I'm really impressed with this space and the people running it. I will definitely be back again and again because I love art and I love supporting local artists and galleries. I noticed that there will be new exhibitions coming soon, too. The Melanie Carr Gallery is a definite must-do for all art lovers and gallery dwellers, so go check it out!!

Joel did a beautiful job on my two prints, rematting, new glass (UV protective) and hanging gear…read more Fair price and expertly executed. Thanks Joel

This is a fun spot to kill an hour or so. It's priced decently at $15 per adult, and kids under 6…read moreare free. The history and submarine are cool, but what really stood out was the train exhibit on the top floor. Just a super cool and detailed train set. Very fun for younger kids!

We recently visited the Connecticut River Museum. I had learned that a ship that my great-great…read moregrandfather emigrated on was built in the shipyards near Essex, Ct. Wanting to learn more about the shipping history of the area we stopped in to the museum. It is packed with three floors of ship building and shipping history. The staff was excellent and helpful, and we learned so much about the history of the area. There is a replica of the "turtle" considered to be the first submarine and the history of wars and British ships in the harbors. Some exhibits are interactive. On our visit the third floor covered the history of boat racing on the river which was fascinating. We were thrilled with what we learned and saw. The museum is very well done. There is plenty of parking and it sits right on the water. Definitely worth the visit if you are in the area.

The employees at this store are fabulous. I've been watching a chair on Chairish for months, and it…read morewas finally reduced to a really excellent price. They held it for me until I could get there today. I guess I wasn't sure how big it is, but it's HUGE. It for sure didn't fit in the back of my SUV. so the employees managed to fit it in with a little overhang and bungee corded it very securely in my vehicle so I could make the seventy mile drive home with my new purchase. Thanks so much for the effort. I'm obsessed with my new purchase. Very happy customer!

We stopped in today and was pleasantly surprised. They have a great selection of antiques and the…read moreprices were very reasonable. Two gentlemen were working when we arrived and both were very friendly and helpful. We recommend you stop in if you're looking for some good quality pre-owned furniture or household items. The shop is packed with nice things and very clean.

This place is great! This is a treasure of unique handmade glass pieces, from jewelry, ornaments,…read moregarden stakes, art pieces and so much more. Beatiful works from the artist and proprietor, Jeni, for all price ranges and tastes. Every piece is unique to buy or you can sign up for a class and make your own. Jeni is so knowledgeable, enthusiastic and a great instructor. Lots of fun making fused glass. You can also get pieces on the website. I got necklaces for my wife and garden stakes too plus some glass coasters, all very affordable. I've never seen a place like it!

My friends & I attended a glass fusion class today with Jeni. She shared her extensive knowledge…read moreabout glass, some useful terminology, a quick & compelling history of glass, all before giving a discussion on safety & the tools used in the process which were seamlessly parlayed into a demonstration of the process to make our chosen pieces. Before we knew it we were constructing our pieces, sharing stories & laughs while she guided us through our making and learning. She generously allowed us to bring in party food & beverages to celebrate those among us having birthdays which we enjoyed while she gave her talks mentioned earlier. The entire time was pure pleasure. Her studio's gallery space is full of astounding works of art she created. She is enormously talented. I hope you'll take one of her classes.

I called and spoke to Ann. I had a question about a Picasso etching my mother bought about 60 years…read moreago. I had no knowledge or paperwork on it. She was very patient and professional with this novice. She said send me some pictures and I'll give you some information. We exchanged numerous emails and she finally gave me unfortunate news. I truly appreciate her time and professionalism. I would utilize her services again and highly recommend her.

Ann continues to be a trusted and effective expert on all things art, consistently pointing me in…read morethe right direction; she is enthusiastic and reliable.

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.