supporting small businesses in the hudson valley
by victoria tzorbatzoglou
The support of small businesses is a key aspect of retail in America that is slowly being lost. As a society, we have really become reliant on primarily shopping from big corporations because of the convenience. I often find myself guilty of this because of my busy schedule. When I need something, it is easier to just go on my phone and order it from Amazon. It will be at my door the next day, and I didn’t even have to leave the house. If not ordering online, I find myself taking a trip to Target, where I can get all the items I need in one place. Even in the past few years, since the pandemic, I have noticed there has been a drastic change. Big corporations implemented things like in-store pickup, making consumers’ lives even easier. Although all of this sounds great in theory, we are losing reason to go to our local mom and pop shops for things. Growing up in Queens, this was the norm for me. We had very few chains in my neighborhood, so everything you needed, you went to local businesses for. Now, when I go home, I can see that this is slowly changing, as small businesses are suffering, and closing left and right. I feel that this is making us lose a sense of community in our neighborhoods. Going to local stores where the people working know your name is a social interaction that is critical for us as humans to have.
Because of this, I am always trying to find local businesses and towns in the area. And since I have been at Marist for three years now, I have become very comfortable with the Hudson Valley. So, I wanted to highlight a few of my favorites to encourage Marist students to support our local small businesses!
Rooted Yoga
2 Lagrange Avenue, Suite 206 & 207, Poughkeepsie, NY -
2701 West Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY
Rooted Yoga is a studio located in Arlington and Wappinger Falls that offers different heated and nonheated Yoga and Pilates classes. I have been going to Rooted since last semester, which has been a great outlet for me to unwind. It is my version of self-care and is also a great way to stay active. Rooted offers different packages for student discounts! Including 18-dollar drop-ins, or 5 classes for $50 new student package.
Nolita Boutique
21 Raymond Ave Suite A, Poughkeepsie, NY
Nolita is a family-owned women’s wear boutique located at The Arlington. I recently bought a gift set of lotions and oils made in the Hudson Valley here for my mom. They also have a great selection of clothing and accessories. This is a great place to check out if you’re looking for unique pieces to add to your wardrobe this fall!
Canvas and Clothier
27 Garden Street Poughkeepsie, NY
Canvas and Clothier is a local boutique in Poughkeepsie, with all its products produced in the USA. The product selection is a wide range of men’s and women’s clothing, home furnishings, and bags. The boutique even has a coffee shop on the inside, adding to their in-store experience. The location is made to feel as if you are in a small department store, with a captivating visual merchandising strategy.
Fika and Hygge
21 Raymond Ave Suite B, Poughkeepsie, NY
Fika and Hygge is a Scandinavian Candy and Coffee Shop located in the Arlington area. The shop’s highlight is its huge candy wall right when you walk in, with paper bags that you can grab and fill with Scandinavian candy. This was some of the most delicious candy I’ve ever had! The store also has a cafe with coffee, pastries, and a lounge area for customers to enjoy.
The Crafted Kup
44 Raymond Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY - 45 Eastdale Ave North, Poughkeepsie, NY
The Crafted Kup is a cafe located in The Eastdale Village and the Arlington walking district. They offer a wide selection of coffees, teas, hot chocolate, and smoothies, and have a breakfast and lunch menu. The Crafted cup is a great change of scenery from campus to grab a coffee and sit while you study. They also offer catering and host events frequently.
All these businesses are just a quick 10–15-minute drive from campus. Spend your weekend trying something new!