BUY LOCAL

Area businesses need your support, now more than ever

Residents of our area are aware of the importance of shopping at local businesses, and the negative economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has made supporting community stores even more crucial. The need to close their doors for months brought customer foot traffic and cash flow to a standstill.

During this unusual time, local merchants were creative and adapted to the challenging conditions by trying new ways to let their customers know that they’re here, they’re in business, and they can’t wait to help you find what you’re looking for, whether it be delivered, placed in your car when you drive up, or shipped to your home. We reached out to a few business owners and asked for their thoughts about making it through this difficult period. Here are some of their reflections and comments. Remember to make it a point to buy local!

With COVID-19 effects, what have you done to emphasize buying local from your store or buying a local service from you?

LARA MALOY, OWNER, FURCHGOTT SOURDIFFE GALLERY AND FRAMING

Mid-March was a difficult time to feel comfortable with any marketing attempt. We were busy following the news and taking all necessary precautions. By April, we decided our best approach would be to offer an art sale. From April 15 through May 15, we promoted a 15 percent discount on original art sales with an additional 15 percent of the sale donated to Partners in Health, a nonprofit organization uniquely positioned to respond to COVID-19 globally. With the response to the sale, we were able to make payments to local artists (Act Local) while also making a sizable donation to PIH (Think Global). All this happened at a time when I doubted making any sales.

DIEDRE SENIOR, OWNER, A LITTLE SOMETHING

We are open for in-person shopping, but we’re also offering other alternatives, including private shopping, FaceTime shopping, online ordering, curbside pickup, and shipping. We also offer free gift wrapping. A Little Something has been committed to keeping our customers safe and secure when choosing to shop local.

ERIN BRENNAN, MANAGER, JESS BOUTIQUE

With the closure of our boutiques during the COVID-19 quarantine, we had to quickly pivot to offering the same level of service but in a virtual way. We capitalized on our relationships with our existing customers by curating style boxes for people to shop from home, sent photos via email, and offered FaceTime video shopping. We also started hosting live selling events on social media, where customers were able to shop from the comfort of their home while also having the opportunity to socialize. This allowed us to stay in touch with our customers despite having our doors closed to in-person shopping.

Everyone hears “buy local” and “support local.” That’s important for the survival of the business, but what other positive effects do you see?

BRIDGET BAILEY, GENERAL MANAGER, BOYDEN VALLEY WINERY & SPIRITS

When you buy local you are not supporting a huge company, you are supporting a family of people—your friends and neighbors. Buying local means supporting healthy fresh food sources and local art and culture. You are supporting the community at large as well as the business by voting with your dollar.

DIEDRE SENIOR, OWNER, A LITTLE SOMETHING

If folks love where they live, it’s important for them to shop local. If small businesses can’t survive, think about the effect it would have locally. Sponsorships of community organizations, donations to local nonprofits, and jobs for friends, families, and neighbors would all be adversely affected. A thriving and healthy local economy affects all of us, from our real estate values, to the strength of our community organizations, to the caliber of our schools, and to the employment opportunities for all citizens.

LARA MALOY, OWNER, FURCHGOTT SOURDIFFE GALLERY AND FRAMING

My heart has been warmed by the appreciation coming from our clients in terms of actual continued business but also emotional support. At a time of crisis, people look toward where they find meaning, encouragement, and community. Art appreciation, creative expression, and the way we decorate the homes to which we’ve been confined prove important to mental health and well-being. The continued communication (despite physical distancing) and focus on home projects helped everyone to have positive thoughts and safe connection.

ERIN BRENNAN, MANAGER, JESS BOUTIQUE

Shopping local keeps our dollars spent in the community, supporting the economy close to home as well as keeping local people employed. Supporting local also means supporting people we know—our neighbors, friends, and family. It creates connections among real people forging deeper relationships and a stronger community.

Were there any ways merchants worked together to promote buying local?

DIEDRE SENIOR, OWNER, A LITTLE SOMETHING

The website www.lovevermont.org was founded by local professionals who quickly reached out to Vermont merchants and strategized on social media to get the word out about small businesses that could be supported during the shutdown.

BRIDGET BAILEY, GENERAL MANAGER, BOYDEN VALLEY WINERY & SPIRITS

We are part of the Burlington Farmers Market and have always partnered with other local farmers and businesses like the Vermont Cranberry Company, the Farm Between, Brown’s Orchards & Farmstand, and others to buy the freshest ingredients for our products in addition to the crops we grow right on our own farm.

ERIN BRENNAN, MANAGER, JESS BOUTIQUE

We are constantly working with other local businesses through cross-marketing campaigns and events as well as individually frequenting other local businesses in order to support people we know.

A LITTLE SOMETHING

A Little Something carries something for everyone! If you’re shopping for a gift—or for yourself—check out our jewelry, clothing, gifts, greeting cards, and more. We work with small companies and local and independent designers exclusively, so you’ll find creative, unique, and affordable items daily. We offer free gift wrapping and plenty of parking. Stop by and check us out. You’ll be glad you did! 2989 Shelburne Road, Shelburne (802) 985-9909 www.alittlesomethingvt.com

ANN ROCHE CASUAL FURNITURE

As the area’s largest purveyor of porch and patio furniture and accessories, Ann Roche serves retail and commercial customers throughout Vermont and beyond. With selections from the top brands of aluminum, wrought iron, and wicker, Ann Roche can furnish everything from your compact backyard patio to your vacation home in faraway locales. 370 Dorset Street, South Burlington (802) 985-5300

BEFORE

AFTER LATISSE

BEFORE WITH MASCARA AFTER LATISSE WITH MASCARA

BARE MEDICAL SPA

Our Church Street brick and mortar location is now open for appointments, available every day from 11am to 4pm. Book an appointment online at www.expressionsvt.com. J oin our live sale events every Wednesday at 8pm. Tune in on Instagram or Facebook live to see our merchandise and leave a comment or to purchase. 102 Church Street Burlington (802) 864-0414 www.expressionsvt.com Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center is celebrating eight years of helping you achieve your skin care goals. Voted Best of Burlington for our skilled staff and varied services, we’re also proud to sell life-changing medical-grade skincare products. One of the favorites is prescription formula Latisse, which will help grow, thicken, and darken your natural lashes.

Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center is the #1 CoolSculpting provider in Vermont. CoolSculpting permanently reduces body fat with the FDA-approved noninvasive cooling technology. Get the results you’ve wanted without the pain or price tag of liposuction. Join Bare’s VIP CoolClub and other get great perks. 95 St. Paul Street, Burlington (802) 861-2273

EXPRESSIONS

www.barevt.com

BOYDEN VALLEY WINERY & SPIRITS

Try these special offerings from Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits.. Marquette Reserve A dry, robust red wine with flavors of plum and red berries and undertones of chocolate and vanilla, crafted in limited quantities. Vermont Ice Maple Crème A premium cream liqueur made from Boyden organic maple syrup and apple brandy produced from Vermont-grown apples. Extra smooth with a pronounced maple flavor, it’s amazing on ice, in cocktails, and with coffee. Or create a maple mudslide! 64 VT Route 104, Cambridge (802) 644-8151 www.boydenvalley.com

ECCO CLOTHES

Hey, Loves! Shop Burlington’s finest curated collection of dresses since 1992 at Ecco Clothes on Church Street. Designers include Amanda Uprichard, BCBG, Aiden Mattox, and more. You can also shop our online store www.ecco-clothes.myshopify.com/collections. Find us on Instagram and Facebook. 81 Church Street, Burlington (802) 860-2220 www.eccoclothesboutique.com

PHOTOS BY MAIA BERTRAND ©

FURCHGOTT SOURDIFFE GALLERY

Furchgott Sourdiffe offers a diverse range of contemporary art by established and emerging artists in a variety of media. The gallery’s custom framing services are museum quality and include hand-finished frames, design experience, and conservation specialists. You’ll also find a collection of handmade jewelry, glass, and ceramics plus ready-made photo frames.

Currently on view through July 10th: Return to the Garden paintings by Kate Longmaid. 85 Falls Road, Shelburne fsgallery.com

GREEN ENVY

An iconic look, the Veronica Beard classic blazer and interchangeable hooded cashmere dickey is a staple piece in any wardrobe. This effortless duo can be paired with a structured pant and just as well with a relaxed denim.

Fashion-forward Golden Goose Superstar sneakers add interest to any outfit. Pair with anything from denim to dresses. Each Superstar is individually distressed for a unique urban-chic look. Your Golden Goose is an investment shoe that boasts versatility and on-trend style. 3 Main Street, Burlington

1800 Mountain Road, Stowe (802) 253-2661 shopgreenenvy.com

JESS BOUTIQUE

Our Church Street brick and mortar location is now open for appointments, available every day from 11am to 4pm. We have also continued with our live sale events every Wednesday and Saturday at 8pm. Tune in on Instagram and Facebook or shop our online boutique at www.jessboutique.com. 98 Church Street, Burlington (802) 660-4004 www.jessboutique.com

OUTDOOR GEAR EXCHANGE

Outdoor Gear Exchange has reopened their doors on Church Street with limited hours and new health and safety protocols implemented but the same excellent customer service and outrageous selection. We have also begun same day curbside pickup and you can always shop our entire store online 24/7 at gearX.com.

37 Church Street, Burlington (802) 547-4327 www.gearx.com

SKI RACK

Patagonia Baggies shorts are rugged, multifunctional shorts for in and out of the water, made of quick-drying 100 percent recycled nylon, and Fair Trade Certified sewn. They also feature a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to shed moisture, elasticized waistband with an internal drawstring, and a mesh liner. Available in styles for men, women, and kids. Arc’teryx Contenta dress is a relaxed fit, dropped waistline dress that is ideal for relaxing or summer travel. Comfortable and stretchy, it dries quickly, packs well, doesn’t wrinkle, and is easy to care for. It also features two convenient hand pockets and a discreet security pocket. A waist adjuster is smartly integrated into the left pocket.

85 Main Street, Burlington (802) 658-3313 www.skirack.com

SPALON EUPHORIA

Our unique approach to wellness and beauty allow us to design an experience tailored specifically to you. We’re dedicated to providing you with great spa experiences to help you look and feel your very best, from a wide range of facials, massages, pedicures, waxing, and more. Come in for a skin consultation and analysis to obtain your professional treatment program recommendation. We also offer body sculpting and contouring as well as many other treatments utilizing the latest technology. Call for an appointment or book online. 145 Pine Haven Shores #2022, Shelburne (802) 276-5275 www.spaloneuphoria.com

Photo: Susan Teare

RADIANCE MEDICAL AESTHETICS & WELLNESS SPA

Radiance is a true and innovative medical aesthetics and wellness clinic, providing the best possible care and results for our patients. We offer services such as Botox, filler, body contouring, laser procedures, and much more. Our goal is to make you feel confident, beautiful, and radiant. We use the highest quality devices, techniques, and procedures with our patients’ satisfaction as our top priority. Our licensed professionals have years of expertise and training to help you achieve all your aesthetic goals safely and effectively. 5399 Williston Road, Williston (802) 777-7300 www.radiancevt.com

253-2169 | Stowe, VT | cushmandesign.com

Jamie Clayton, owner, and her team.

New Technology Means Enhanced Services

NEW PRP “VAMPIRE” TREATMENTS AT BARE MEDICAL SPA

As the initial shock of the COVID-19 pandemic wears away and Vermont life begins to trickle back to normal, self-care and self-love are more important than ever. The Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center has recently expanded its portfolio of medical-aesthetic services to help clients achieve greater confidence and emotional well-being. New treatments use plateletrich plasma (PRP) technology for safe, all-natural, and nonsurgical healing and repair.

“In this industry, things are changing every day,” says Jamie Clayton, owner and founder of Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center. “We always try to offer the newest treatments available.” Using cutting-edge trends and technology as well as the highest standards of training and expertise, the

Jamie Clayton, owner, and Shelby Gillespie, spa manager.

team at Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center has been providing enhanced services to the Burlington community since 2012. Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center is committed to cultivating a relaxing atmosphere where clients can feel comfortable addressing their skin health concerns and leave with a newfound confidence.

BLOOD-DERIVED FACTORS REJUVENATE THE SKIN Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center has adopted PRP technology to offer an all-natural alternative to clients who are uncomfortable with synthetics. The spa’s Vampire Facial, Vampire Facelift, Vampire Breast Lift, O-Shot, and PRP Hair Restoration all use PRP.

PRP technology has been used for decades to correct joint and spinal issues and was later introduced into aesthetics for a variety of nonsurgical skin treatments. The process involves drawing a patient’s blood, spinning it out in a centrifuge (a rapidly spinning machine that separates liquids of different densities), and extracting the plasma, which contains hundreds of your body’s natural proteins called growth factors.

This nutrient-rich solution can be injected into the body as a dermal filler to add volume where loss exists or for a wide variety of other cosmetic procedures, including the stimulation of hair growth; collagen production for healthier, more youthful skin; improvement in the shape and lift of breasts; and the enhancement of vaginal tissue to help women with urinary incontinence and intimacy problems.

With a sophisticated PRP-extraction process, the team at Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center is able to achieve higher concentrations of platelet-rich plasma and drive the best possible results. Because PRP is derived from the patient’s own body, there is little to no risk to the patient.

HEALTHY SKIN, HEALTHY MIND Skin health can have a major impact on emotional health. The team at Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center hopes the new PRP treatments will open the doors of self-confidence and inner beauty to new clients.

“Everyone has that one thing that they’re displeased with that affects them more than anybody else,” says Jamie. “Maybe it’s a freckle you’ve always hated and felt self-conscious about, or a scar, or justthe process of aging in general. Even if no one else notices it, but it bothers you, we encourage everyone to feel like it’s okay to take care of yourself—it’s not vain and it’s not selfish.”

She believes that aesthetic enhancements— be they derived from the all-natural PRP process or achieved through fillers or lasers, treatments don’t have to be taboo.

“Be proud of what you’re doing to make yourself happy,” says Jamie. Whatever patients may be going through, taking

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control of their skin health can help them turn their lives around. “We’re not pushing [procedures] or pointing out flaws when you come in. It’s whatever you need to feel more confident in yourself.”

WHAT’S NEXT? The medical-aesthetic industry is never one to remain stagnant. With new products and services constantly emerging, the team at Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center is committed to adopting the latest and greatest to deliver the

highest standards of beauty to their clients. Their passion and drive mean that they’re always thinking about how to take their treatments and technology to the next level.

“We’re expanding,” says Jamie, “which means we'll be increasing our services, including some minor surgical procedures. We're looking at a couple options and will know the specifics soon.”

What do more services and more space mean for you? More satisfaction, more comfort, and more confidence. If you’re ready to restore and rejuvenate your skin to feel more like you, call the spa to ask about the latest PHP services as well as other treatments to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center 95 St Paul Stteet #110 Burlington, VT (802) 861-2273 www.barevt.com