Ark and Echo
Initial wreaths, initial wood-cutting boards, and knit beanie hats make beautiful gift ideas for every budget at downtown Troy's Ark and Echo. Contributed photos.
There really is something for everyone at Ark and Echo, a partnership between two faith-based businesses, ARKhouse and Echo's Boutique. Co-owner Kevin Smith recommends you make it personal for the home-lovers or foodies with an initial wreath ($39.95) or initial wood-cutting board ($40), and keep your loved ones cute and warm with a knit beanie hat ($12).
INFO: Ark and Echo | 101 S. Market St., Troy | (937) 219-5651 | Facebook | Hours: Tues-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Pachamama Dayton
Stocking stuffers, delicate jewelry, and beautiful bags are just a few gift ideas from new Troy business Pachamama Market. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Pachamama Market is new on the Troy scene, having opened its doors on Nov. 27, and it's already making a splash with its Fair Trade, handmade, and eco-friendly gifts crafted by female artisans from all over the world. When you buy a gift here, you're not only supporting the local store and the artisan in question, but each purchase supports a global cause close to the artisan.
For a stocking stuffer, owner Lindsay Woodruff suggests a Peruvian handmade stuffed alpaca bunny ($28), cuddly and hypoallergenic. Artisan Manuela Ramos provides artisan jobs to women in rural areas of Peru while actively campaigning for a variety of women's rights. Looking for unique jewelry? A gorgeous Kenyan bead and leather wrap bracelet ($40) is made from Czech glass beads and locally sourced leather and is adjustable, and its purchase supports deaf artisans in Kenya support themselves and their children.
For a splurge item, don't go all mainstream with a Pendleton bag: This Mexican-made handwoven wool crystal duffle bag by Manos Zapotecos ($360) is the perfect weekend getaway bag. It's ideal for overhead storing, with an adjustable and removable strap, protective metal feet to keep the leather base clean, and an inner zip pocket. Plus, the colorful design is breathtaking. Purchases from Manos Zapotecas connect the artisans of the indigenous Zapotec people of Mexico with socially conscious consumers all over the world.
INFO: Pachamama Market | 116 S. Market St., Troy | (937) 552-9466 | Facebook | Hours: Tues- Thurs 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
For All Seasons
Naked Bee items, handmade soaps, ornaments, scarves, wine clutches and more make beautiful gifts from For All Seasons in downtown Troy. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
When you shop at For All Seasons, you're supporting a crucial resource for the whole area: all proceeds benefit Hospice of Miami County, and all shopkeepers volunteer their time to work in the store. Make your gift go even further this season by choosing from a variety of great products: From Naked Bee beauty products, Troy-based handmade soaps, gorgeous ornaments, children's toys, or fun items like wine clutches, Lolita glasses, and kitchen items, you'll more than likely end up with a gift or two for yourself as well. Hey, all for a good cause, right?
INFO: For All Seasons | 2 W. Main St., Troy | (937) 875-2599 | Facebook | Hours: Tues-Fri 10 a.m.- 6p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.- 4p.m.
The Three Weird Sisters Studio
Vintage jewelry and novelty items, hand-painted and crafted items, tablecloths and more are perfect gifts to be found at Three Weird Sisters Studio. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
The Three Weird Sisters Studio has been supplying downtown Troy with beautiful artsy and vintage trinkets and household wares, upcycled furniture, adult and children's clothing, and probably at some point an actual kitchen sink since 2013, and are a must on your shopping spree. Plus, you can keep it thrifty: vintage jewelry starts at $4, while a super fun printed tablecloth goes for $40.
INFO: The Three Weird Sisters Studio | 5 E. Main St. | (937) 339-1333 | Facebook | Hours: Mon-Fri 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where are you shopping in Troy this season? Let us know on Facebook.
About the Author