SHOPPING GUIDE

Custom Crystal Creations in Dobb’s Ferry, NY.

Local Businesses Offer Unique Customization as Consumers Look to Stretch Holiday Dollars

by Sara Gurgen

Two things have defined the 2022 holiday shopping season so far: shoppers seeking out bargains and businesses creating novel ways to attract attention with their value-driven items and promotions. Consumers started their gift buying earlier this year, too, lengthening the calendar of shopping days. Concerns remained that supplies could be constrained, that shipments could be delayed, and that popular items could be costlier closer to the holidays. With inflation and supply chain issues taking their toll for the second consecutive holiday season in a row, most are looking for ways to stretch their shopping dollars and avoid being empty-handed come the holidays.

While online sales still prevail, consumers continue to warm up to in-store shopping as pandemic anxieties wane. In fact, many retailers with brick-and-mortar stores are curating a unique, personal shopping experience with a focus on customer service, lending to shoppers’ peace of mind in choosing that perfect gift and being able to hold it right in their hands.

We talked with a number of local businesses regarding the innovative and customized ways they are attracting shoppers this holiday season. “We have a very robust loyalty program that rewards our customers with discounts. In addition to always offering a discount to our veterans, we’ll be having holiday sales this year,” says Cathy Parlitsis, owner of the Your CBD Store franchise in Mt. Kisco. “We have different bundles that make great gifts, hostess treats and stocking stuffers too.” Parlitsis explains that Your CBD Store is the largest brick-and-mortar CBD retailer in the world because they believe it is imperative to listen to their customers and educate them in the store so that they are making an informed choice. They also offer customers samples so they can try the different products. “When customers purchase online, without the consultation and education, they often waste money buying products that might not work or are not specific to their needs.”

Husband and wife team Yvette and Jose Sanchez are the owners of two other Your CBD Store franchises in the area—one in Wappingers Falls and one in White Plains.

“We have created convenient bundle sets at a discounted price to make holiday shopping easier and more affordable for our customers this season. Pick among various bundles, such as Beauty, Spa, Rest and Energy. We even have a bundle for your pets,” exclaims Yvette.

Like Parlitsis, they also have a robust loyalty program. “Every time you shop with us, you receive points that add up to savings,” says Yvette. “We also offer a great referral program called Give 10, Get 10. We give you $10 for every friend you refer, and your friend gets $10 off their first purchase.” Locations: Your CBD Store, 222 E. Main St., Mt. Kisco, NY; 1582 Rte. 9, Wappingers Falls, NY; 365 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY; and 131 Purchase St., Store #3, Rye, NY. For more information, call 914.276.5409 (Mt. Kisco), 845.297.0302 (Wappingers Falls), 914.358.9748 (White Plains) and 914.921.1073 (Rye). See ad, page 6.

Ann LaGoy, owner of online retailer Sound Earth, which offers all-natural, crueltyfree products that are safe for the entire family, says they have expanded their therapeutic-grade essential oils line of products and will be featuring them throughout December. “Our unique blends are crafted to help us feel our best,” she says. “Sweet Tart is a blend of lavender, lemongrass and basil to help us feel more confident and peaceful. Smarty is a blend of lavender and peppermint to help us stay focused and calm. We have something for everyone—keep an eye out for sales.”

LaGoy also points out that customers can personalize their entire line of cleaning and care products by choosing their favorite scents for their favorite products. For more information, visit SoundEarth.com. See ad, page 23.

Custom Crystal Creations

This year, Stephanie McCauley, owner of Custom Crystal Creations, in Dobbs Ferry, is offering a surprise bag full of all different items from around her store—such as crystals, candles, necklaces and bracelets—for a big discount. “They will start at $5 to $25,” she says. “Buy a bag and find out what is inside for you. Also, I can customize bracelets for each person’s needs with gemstone beads. The deadline for special Christmas custom orders for these bracelets is Monday, December 19.” Location: Custom Crystal Creations, 16 Cedar St., Ste. B, Dobbs Ferry, NY. For more information, call 914.231.6296. Also look for them on Facebook. See ad, page 23. Shima Chayvet, owner of Universal Healing Arts Center, in Cortlandt Manor, says that they have made it possible for anyone on a small budget to discover some fabulous finds. “You’ll love our selection and our prices, including pieces from local artisans. Find smaller crystals from $1.50 and up; bracelets, rings and jewelry from $10 and up; and should you have a little more to spend, you will also find an exciting variety of ethically sourced crystals in all shapes, colors and sizes—plus a great metaphysical shopping experience.” Location: Universal Healing Arts Center, 4 Crestview Ave., Cortlandt Manor, NY. For more information, call 914.737.4325 or visit UniversalHealingArts.com. See ad, page 23.

The Grl & Co.

The Grl & Co. is offering GRL Boxes this holiday season. “A limited supply of coffee, tea and CBD boxes are available online and discounted up to 10 percent of the actual retail prices,” says Noel D’Allacco, owner of the Westchesterbased online shop, which features products that have been ethically sourced Noel D’Allacco and manufactured using sustainable practices.

“Our well code, as featured in Natural Awakenings, gives shoppers 20 percent off their first online order of $50 or more through January 23,” adds

D’Allacco. In addition to standard shipping, she says they also have options to pick up locally and offer delivery in lower Westchester County.

Also, the Grl & Co. will be popping up as a vendor from noon to 5 p.m. at

Ethan Allen on December 3 and 4 at 152 South Central Avenue, in Hartsdale.

For more information, visit TheGrlCo.com and follow them on social media.

See ad, page 23.

This year, whether looking for bargains, one-of-a-kind gifts, or hoping to experience the thrill of a festive, boutique atmosphere, shopping locally will stimulate the economy close to home and contribute to a thriving community. Just like with the small businesses we’ve spoken to here, local owners take their customers’ needs to heart, have a passion for their offerings, and often make planet-friendly decisions, helping the larger global environment. Shopping small is simply put: a pay-it-forward gift. See this month’s special Shopping Guide on pages 22 & 23.

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