Cover story

Presents

WITHIN WITHIN reach

PAJARO VALLEY MAGAZINE | 9, 2021 DECEMBER 3 GIFT OF WORDS Kelly’s Books in Watsonville offers a selection of books for all ages, including Barbara Brustman’s “My Name is Beau,” pictured here.

FRESH PICKS Sal Orozco, owner of Forever Fly Skate shows a sampling of gift items that are popular this year. A large selection of skateboard decks are also popular.

Tarmo Hannula

Tarmo Hannula

Pajaro Valley businesses ready for holiday shoppers

Last weekend was Small Business Saturday, a nationally-recognized day promoting shopping at local, small businesses. It immediately followed Black Friday, known as the largest shopping day of the year and a time when people primarily purchase from big box stores and online retailers.

But shopping small does not have to begin and end on Small Business Saturday. Local shops, many of them family-run and operated, are open all holiday season, and ready to help you find the best gifts for your friends and family.

The Pajaro Valley is no exception. Whether you are looking for clothing, books, cookware or specialty foods, there is plenty to choose from at stores just around the corner.

“Keep it local, because that’s the money that stays right here in town,” said Shaz Roth, CEO of the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture. “Those businesses are the ones who support the local nonprofits, little league and soccer teams. Plus, local stores are where you can find a lot of unique gifts.”

Roth highlighted a number of businesses including Little Trends Children’s Boutique, which recently opened on the corner of Green Valley Road and Main Street.

“We’re thrilled to have them open up,” she said. “It’s such a neat addition for new moms, a great place to shop for super high quality baby clothes.”

Roth also recommended certificates as a versatile way of gift-giving.

“Gift certificates also make great gifts, especially for people you’re not sure about,” she said. “Give someone an experience, like going out to dinner, a winery or a store that they’ve never been to before.”

Here is just a sampling of some local businesses and what they have to offer this holiday season.

Kelly’s Books, 1838 Main St., offers a selection of books for all ages, as well as small gifts, cards and more. Check out “My name is Beau” by Barbara Brustman, a Christmasthemed story illustrating a day in the life of her dog through poetry. Acclaimed short story collection “Gordo” by Jaime Cortez is also available at the store. Owner Kelly Pleskunas can also special order certain books. Call 728-4139 for information. Hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10am-6pm.

Annieglass

A longstanding Watsonville company now known internationally, Annieglass offers handcrafted glass dinnerware and home decor. Browse the company’s items, including its new 2021 Fall collection of plates, bowls and more inspired by a trip that owner Annie Morhauser’s artist son, Tay, took recently to Africa. Shop online at annieglass.com or stop by the retail store at 310 Harvest Drive, open Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm.

Wishbone Pet Company

Looking for a gift for your furry family members? Stop by Wishbone Pet Company, 1994 Freedom Blvd., for supplies, toys, food and treats. Much of Wishbone’s high-quality products are natural, organic and handpicked by knowledgeable staff. The store has plenty of holiday-themed gifts, including pet stockings, cookies and sweaters. Open daily 10am-7pm. Visit wishbonepetco.com for information.

Little Trends Children’s Boutique

A new addition to Watsonville’s small business community, Little Trends offers shoppers a one-stop shop for clothing, accessories and supplies for babies and toddlers, and new or expectant mothers. From specialty outfits to bilingual children’s books, postpartum care to diaper bags, the shop’s staff is ready to help in any way they can. Visit littletrendsboutique.com or stop by the shop, 1052 S. Green Valley Road. Hours: Wednesdays-Sundays, 10am-6pm.

Foreverfly Skate & Apparel

Foreverfly Skate & Apparel, 442 Main St., is the perfect place to shop for young kids and teenagers, and those who have a passion for skateboarding and skateboarding apparel. Shirts, sweatshirts, beanies, socks, stickers, skateboard decks and trucks, wheels, accessories and more are available. Open daily 10:30am-6:30pm. To shop online, visit foreverflyskate.com.

The Slough Brewing Collective

Watsonville-based Slough Brewing Collective has gained a reputation for its unique brews, ranging from light to dark, hoppy to sour. Its staple Con Sal lager is popular, and the shop often collaborates with local food establishments for specialty brews. Stop by the brewery, 65 Hangar Way, to purchase a six pack of their colorful cans, or order online at thesloughbrewing.com.

Honeylux Coffee

Watsonville’s newest coffee shop, 45 Aviation Way, carries specialty coffee and espresso, as well as locally-produced teas, honey, pastries and more. Coffee beans, as well as glass containers of California Bee Company honey can be purchased at the store, as well as gift cards. For information, visit honeyluxcoffee.com.

Freedom Meat Lockers

Freedom Meat Lockers and Sausage Company, 160 Hi Grade Lane, is once again offering its holiday gift packs. The business has been family owned and operated since 1970, and specializes in custom cut meat and award-winning smoked meats. Owner Howard Walker says customers can come in and mix and match their own custom pack from items, including smoked ham, in-house bacon, dozens of homemade sausages, salami and more. Items can be shipped. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday 9am-6pm. For information, visit freedommeatlockers.com.

Heritage Chocolates

Corralitos’ Heritage Chocolates offers sweet treats to satisfy dark and milk chocolate lovers alike. From its 15-piece custom assortment chocolate box to its Heavenly Rose Bar, made with pistachios, dried strawberries, rose and cardamom. For information about Heritage Chocolate and to order online, visit heritage-chocolates.com.

John’s Jewelers

John’s Jewelers opened in 1961, and the familyowned business aims to give the best customer service and high-quality jewelry, watches and more. Located at 42 Mariposa Ave., the shop is open Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm. Order online at johnsjewelers.com.

Ferrari Florist

Ferrari Florist is celebrating 75 years in Santa Cruz County and its second year in Watsonville. The shop boasts a number of floral designs, including seasonal plants such as poinsettias. Delivery available countywide, and certain areas of Monterey County. Visit the Watsonville store at 928 East Lake Ave., Tuesday-Friday 9:30am-5pm and Saturday 8:30am-3pm. To browse and order online, visit ferrariflorist.com.

Alladin Nursery & Gift Shop

Alladin Nursery & Gift Shop, 2905 Freedom Blvd., is a retail nursery and gift shop with plants and garden supplies for every need, plus garden art and sculptures. The gift shop features a wide variety of seasonably changing items for all ages including plenty of holiday-themed gifts. Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 9am-5pm and SundayMonday, 9am-3pm. For information, visit alladinnursery.com.

Tarmo Hannula

CLASSIC STYLE Original glassware at Annieglass in Watsonville is shown alongside other gift items at the company Gift Shop on Harvest Drive.

PET PRESENTS

Wishbone Pet Company in Freedom offers plenty of gifts for animal family members.

FLAVOR

PACK A gift pack at Freedom Meat Lockers can be customized by customers.

Johanna Miller

Tarmo Hannula PAJARO VALLEY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 3 9, 2021