The Chianti Queen

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My Favorite Small Businesses in the Hudson Valley and Online

This year has been tough for everybody, but it’s been particularly hard on the independent store owners and small businesses throughout our communities. In celebration of Small Business Saturday, I wanted to round up some of my favorite local businesses and Instagram-shoppable shops :) Holiday gift inspiration, anyone?!


Amanda’s Macaron Shop (@amandasmacaronshoppe)

Who doesn’t like that crunchy, sweet texture of a fresh-baked macaron? Though I haven’t had a chance to visit the new store myself, I’ve been gifted some of the gourmet treats, and let me tell you, they are PERFECT for a gift or party… or just as a pick-me-up treat.

Some of the delicious macarons at Amanda’s Macaron Shoppe (credit: amandasmacaronshoppe.com)

Chloe and Lois (@chloisandlois)

I stumbled upon this jewelry company as the owner is a fellow alum from Marist College. The modern jewelry with a twist is a great addition to any wardrobe, and the simple yet elegant pieces can be dressed up or down! This line is a great way to 

The Glitter and Giveback necklace even benefits Unshattered, a local charity for women overcoming battles with addiction,  in the Hudson Valley. I can’t wait to order some pieces for my friends (and me…). 

The "Lois" Ring in White Opal (obsessed) (credit: chloeandlois.com)

The Crafted Kup (@craftedkup)

If there’s any coffee shop that could rival Central Perk, it would be the Crafted Kup. With a big menu of classic and new beverages, with some amazing pastries, bagels, and sandwiches in the mix, this is the place to sit and study, read a book (or write one), or gather with friends for a coffee date or open mic night. I’m just saying, I wouldn’t be mad if a gift card landed in my stocking… 

You will never look at another chocolate chip cookie the same way after tasting the goodness that is Overdoughed.

Overdoughed (@overdoughed)

O.M.G. Hands-down the best cookies I’ve ever eaten. They’re massive, doughy, and huge. If you’re lucky enough to live in the Hudson Valley, they’ll deliver to your mailbox within a fifteen-mile radius of their HQ Wappingers Falls. If you’re farther away, they’ll ship their delectable goods to your doorstep. I will definitely be ordering some of these as gifts this Christmas season; new batches drop Sunday nights for delivery/shipping out the following weekend!

Sierra Lily (@sierralily_ simplybeautiful)

Need a cute boutique to grab some gifts or jewelry? Look no further than Sierra Lilly, a shop in Poughkeepsie that is stocked with the latest bracelets, Vera Bradley, handbags, and more. This is a must-stop for the perfect gift for your best friend, your girlfriend, and even your grandma.

Salon Sorelle (@salonsorelleinc)

Salon Sorelle is the place to go for the best hair care in Po-Town. I’ve been a client for years, and I’m always so excited to walk out with a fresh new ‘do. Holly Schneeberger and her squad (shout out to Angie) will have you strutting your stuff and feeling like a million bucks. 

Rocking my post-quarantine haircut from Salon Sorelle #likeaboss

Dyed By Pey (@dyedbypey)

If you’re like me and currently loving the tie-dye trend, you need to check out Dyed By Pey. Another fellow Marist girl with a passion for entrepreneurship, Peyton’s goods are made-to-order, and she releases new patterns for every season. I LIVE in my crew neck sweatshirt; it’s cozy and vibrant and everything you need for the cold winter szn. Send her a DM for pricing and styles :)

My Dyed By Pey crewneck is perfect for summer nights and long winter work-from-home days :)

Sunshine Letter Co. (@sunshineletterco)

I haven’t yet ordered anything from Katie, but I’ve followed her on Instagram for a while and I’m obsessed with the level of care and attention she puts into perfecting her designs and creating unique gifts for everyone. I wish that I had the attention span for calligraphy… she makes it look so easy! Check her out for tons of holiday ideas and custom signs.

The kind of energy we all need in 2020. (credit: @sunshineletterco)

Associates Golf and Utility Vehicles (@golfcarannie)

Call me biased (I worked as an office assistant here for nearly nine months), but Associates is the best place in the Hudson Valley and TriState area to buy and rent golf cars and utility vehicles. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, splurging on a car for camping, or just want something to help you take out the trash, Golf Car Annie has something for you. It’s a family-owned and operated company and official Club Car dealership with a great staff of hardworking people in a swanky, brand new building!

Associates Golf and Utility Vehicles’ brand new building! (credit: Katie Murray)

This list is FAR from exhaustive, and I’m always looking to try new places! These are just a few of my tried-and-true favorites in case you need some inspiration or are looking for an excuse to spend that money that’s burning a hole in your pocket this Small Business Saturday. Don’t forget, Buy Local or Bye Local :)

Stay Fabulous,

Katie xo