Quality Gifts at Resorts Unique Practices from Unique Locations

Resort guests don’t always want to bring home a namedropped T-shirt or magnet. Sometimes they prefer a souvenir that is a bit more sophisticated or meaningful. With this in mind, resort shops stock a select amount of higher price point merchandise for guests seeking unique, quality gifts for themselves or someone special.

At the Spa Boutique at Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vt., which measures a cozy 600 square feet, Spa Manager Alex Braaten said their various skin- and body-care products are top sellers in the quality gift category. “For us, products we use in the spa are very popular because you can experience the product before committing to it,” she explains. “Since we offer luxurious treatments, the skincare, body care, and even hair care items are on the higher end of the pricing scale and our guests love the high quality of the products we offer.”

Kitchen and houseware items with a local flair are standouts in the quality gift category at The General Store at Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite [National Park] in Groveland, Calif. “We work with a local craftsperson named Lori, of Lori’s Woodworking. She makes the most beautiful, handcrafted cutting boards from hardwoods. They are available for sale in the shop and also used in the Tavern as charcuterie boards. They are a lovely, unique, and functional reminder of a great vacation,” said Darcy Locke , assistant retail manager.

Michele Johnson , retail manager for The Boutique at Mission Point at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, Mich., said gifts with local flair of any kind— whether made by local vendors or products that reflect the area in some way—are their biggest sellers. “I carry over 25 local Michigan artists in the store,” she explained. “I have a silversmith who does beautiful jewelry for us. They are one-of-a-kind pieces—they are displayed in a cabinet near the register so we can tell the story [of the items] and people can see them. We have candles, we have woodworking—all custom pieces.” Supporting local vendors and the community is at the heart of what Mission Point is all about, Johnson explained. “We believe that supporting local is the key to not only the island, but the resort itself. When people come on vacation, they’re looking for unique, locally-specific items. I love having so many Continued on page 78