Combing the Riverside shoreline leads to a coastal wreath business

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For a Riverside retiree, a love of beachcombing becomes a business

On the east side of the Providence River, at the end of Shore Road is Riverside’s Sabin Point. This under-the-radar coastal spot is where crafter Diane Varone Crowley finds inspiration along with natural objects to form a stash of supplies for her handmade wreath-making business, Sabin Point Designs. Starting with wreaths of gnarled grape vine, she adds accents that lend a nautical vibe year-round. “Inspiration comes from my love of summertime and the beach – the sound of the waves, the salt air, and especially collecting driftwood and seashells,” she says, noting her passion for beach-combing. Varone Crowley shares that materials come directly from Sabin Point and surrounding areas. “Most of the shells I collect are local, from Sabin Point, Crescent Beach, and Bullocks Point,” she says. “They include baby quahog shells, nassa shells, scallop shells, soft-shell clam shells, volutes, boat shells, and oyster shells.” Each wreath is di erent and some feature cotton rope. “My wreaths are all unique and created by me with love,“ Varone Crowley says. “They are the perfect decorative item for those who appreciate the sea, the beach, and Rhode Island. I am surrounded by an abundance of these natural treasures and I enjoy creating decor that adds a sense of peace and calmness.” Learn more at SabinPointDesign.com | By Emma Nicholson