“Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly.” Psalms 112:5

In the late 80s and 90s, I was a mall girl. I went to Waldenbooks looking for, well, books; to DEB for my Wham sweatshirt and bracelets; and smelled candles at Wicks ‘n’ Sticks. As a young adult, I improved my tastes by exploring different stores, but I was still a mall girl at heart. I may or may not have had a Bath and Body Works credit card, bought Terry’s first Christmas gift from The Bombay Furniture Company, and found Christmas ornaments at Marshall Fields. As a young mother, I still perused malls occasionally, but became a regular shopper at Target, TJ Maxx, and Barnes & Noble. Like all good parents do on these sometimes-long days of shopping, we bribed our kids with massive cookies at The All-American Cookie Company.

I still shop at some big box stores, but I really believe in supporting small local businesses. The owners have put a passion into opening a store that will hopefully offer some personally curated items and books, or have created an enjoyable experience or service. I may have paid a little more than I would on Amazon, but I know that this money is supporting my local economy. I also love hearing the stories of these shop owners, what inspired them to take the retail risk. So here is a list of some of my favorites. I am keeping the list exclusively to shops, not restaurants or coffee shops, which will be later.

  • Relish in Federick, Maryland
  • Cheerful Flowers and Gifts in Chambersburg
  • Grayce Gardens in Chambersburg
  • Central Wedge in Carlisle
  • Whistlestop Bookshop in Carlisle
  • Cocalico Creek in Lancaster
  • Nooks in Lancaster
  • Main Street Exchange in Lancaster

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