Best of Hudson Valley: Shopping & Services

Scroll down for Readers’ Picks or click hereAntique & Estate JewelryZimmer Brothers jewelers, Poughkeepsie, RhinebeckMore than 700 unique rings, bracelets, necklaces, pins, and more from the 1860s through the 1990s are up for grabs at this 124-year-old jewelry emporium. Prices start at around $100, with most pieces in the $500 to $2,500 range. Trade in your vintage castoffs for something you really adore, maybe a 14-karat-gold bangle from your great-grandmother’s day or a spiffy 1950s colored-stone pendant.845.454.6360, Poughkeepsie; www.zimmerbrothers.com
Bike ShopJoe Fix Its, Goshen, MonroeInstantly recognizable by the giant high-wheeler icon on the storefront, this multi-floor pedalers’ paradise is super-stocked with hundreds of bicycles from cruisers to racers to kids’ wheelers and mountain bikes. Take a gander at the used selection, too — you might just find what you need on the cheap. The repair shop can also tune up your old wheels. Daytrippers rent bikes to enjoy the nearby Orange Heritage Trail.845.294.7242, Goshen; www.joefixits.com
BookstoreInquiring Minds Bookstore, Saugerties, New PaltzThis creaky-floored shop in Saugerties — with more than 2,000 sq ft of space — is the perfect place to escape for an hour (or, let’s be honest, lots longer). Beyond the seemingly never-ending inventory of books, the store offers poetry readings, author visits, and tons of other community events to discover, while a wooden train set invites kids to linger, and comfy chairs and café beverages do the same for adults. Its sister store in New Paltz is just as addictive: it’s a modest space with a surprising selection of books, including new releases.845.246.5775, Saugerties; www.inquiringbooks.com
Bridal Shop on Any BudgetA Love Story Bridal, TroyThis intimate, full-service salon offers a gorgeous selection of new, made-to-order, sample, and pre-owned — but in perfect condition — wedding gowns, ensuring you can say yes to the dress of your dreams without breaking your budget. Lazaro, Mikaela, Tara Keely, and JLM Couture are just a few of the big-name designers offered, none more than $2,500. Wedding jewelry, shoes, and gently worn veils round out the mix.518.256.0088; www.alovestorybridal.com
Candy StoreSamuel’s Sweet Shop, RhinebeckZombie gummy feet, gourmet truffles, local ice cream, or vintage Pop Rocks: whichever style of old-timey, sugar you’re after, Samuel’s should be your go-to shop. Inspired by penny candy — and about the same size — of yesteryear, founder Ira Gutner left the city to bring his idea for a sweet shop here. Longtime manager and employee John Traver kept the ship afloat after Gutner’s death in 2014, with the help of some locals who purchased the store (ahem, Paul Rudd and wife Julie, Hilarie Burton, Andy Ostroy, Phoebe Jonas, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan). Now you’ll find everything from goat’s milk caramel and Hubba Bubba to Smarties and cold brew.845.876.5312; www.samuelssweetshop.com
Chocolate ShopLagusta’s Luscious, New PaltzLooking to indulge in a little temptation without feeling too guilty? Check out this completely vegan, socially conscious shop, where expert chocolatiers focus on organic, fair-trade, and local ingredients whenever and wherever possible (including the environmentally friendly packaging designed down the street). A diverse selection of products — including bars, barks, caramels, and truffles — ensures you’ll have plenty to choose from, and their intricate, artful decoration make all of the treats extra special.   845.633.8615; www.lagustasluscious.com
Clock SelectionDe’S Jewelers, PoughkeepsieFor 72 years, this family-owned and–operated gem of a store has been selling the highest-quality items to residents of the Hudson Valley. The Howard Miller clock selection, in particular, is unbeatable. As the largest dealer of that brand in the Valley, De’S sells everything from stately grandfather clocks to design-forward wall clocks to gorgeous mantel clocks — and services them, too. To top it off, an owner is always on-premise.845.452.0026; www.desjewelers.com
Consignment ShopLovely Ladies Consignment Shop, MiddletownSavvy shoppers flock this “mini Macy’s” filled with clothing, shoes, handbags, accessories, and designer goods for your whole family. Not only is it one of the cleanest and most organized consignment shops in the area, it also has ridiculously low prices — the average price for every item in the store is about $3.845.343.5277; find them on Facebook
Craft ShopsSugar Loaf Art & Crafts Village, Sugar LoafThe difference between these craft shops and all of the others in the Valley, is that here you’ll meet the artisans who handcraft what you buy. From one-of-a-kind jewelry at Bertoni Gallery, to the roomfuls of photographic art in Nick Zungoli’s Exposures gallery, to the unique items at the women-run Bliss Co-op, the more than two dozen shops of Sugar Loaf practically guarantee you’ll find the perfect gift — for someone special or just to treat yourself!www.sugarloafnewyork.com
Country MarketBlack Horse Farms, AthensLike most area markets, this setup sells fine gourmet foods, baked goods, and fresh produce. But it’s also located in an 1864 historic, remodeled barn. And most of those products? They’re made or grown right on their 1,000-acre family farm, which features 45 greenhouses and nearly 100 chickens and is still owned by the original Ma and Pa (Mary Lou and Lloyd, now in their 80s). Plus, you’ll also find a diverse selection of honey, flowers, wreaths, and NYS cheeses.518.943.9324; www.blackhorsefarms.com
Flower ArrangementsHops Petunia, KingstonWhether you’re in need of neat and tidy everyday arrangements, or billowing, big, special occasion statements, you’re in good charge at graphic designer-turned-florist Kelli Galloway’s petite petal shop on the Rondout waterfront. Here, Kelli uses fresh flowers from local growers to create dramatic bouquets of color and texture and simple silhouettes that will lift the mood of any viewer. The best thing to do is go see for yourself; trust us, this is truly the cream of the crop.845.481.5817; www.hopspetunia.com
Current Fashion for a Good ValueCream, NewburghIf you’ve been dashing from store to store for today’s hottest women’s wear at a reasonable price, shop no further. Cream rotates through a trendy selection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories in their retail shop. Can’t make it in? No worries: Their Instagram account features the newest items to hit the shelves and showcases the many ways to wear their styles.845.300.2190; www.creamnewburgh.com
Local Grocery StoreAdams Fairacre Farms, Poughkeepsie, Wappingers Falls, Newburgh, KingstonMuch more than mere grocery stores — this longtime, family-owned biz calls its four stores “super farm markets” — each is a supermarket/farm stand hybrid with a heritage of freshness and value that grew out of the original Adams’ family farm founded in 1919. Fresh produce remains a hallmark, along with a full complement of food, grocery, gifts, bakery, and sweets departments.845.454.4330, Poughkeepsie; www.adamsfarms.com
Custom Jewelry StoreHudson Valley Goldsmith, New PaltzJewelry made just for you, by you…well, sort of. The passionate team of crafting professionals behind this long-standing business creates beautiful pieces based on your perspectives. Oftentimes, this means repurposing outdated metals or sentimental precious gems into something new and custom, right in front of you. They can also bring your ideas to life in their own right or fabricate something from a photo. A full-service shop, complete with a stocked showroom, these kind folks will offer resizing and repairs, too.    845.255.5872; www.hudsonvalleygoldsmith.com
Family-Owned Appliance StoreEarl B. Feiden Appliance, Kingston, Latham, Clifton ParkThere’s a reason this fourth-generation, family-owned and -operated business has lasted since 1926: Old-fashioned service, low prices, and expert advice meets the latest, state-of-the-art technology in home appliances from more than 50 top brands, offered at three locations. Plus, its 70-plus employees are factory-trained and accredited to give expert advice about, troubleshoot, service, or repair just about any appliance in your home.845.331.2230, Kingston; www.earlbfeiden.com
Handmade JournalsHimalayan Arts, New PaltzA perfect match for the art-and-craft feeling of the village, this culturally rich shop brings exotic items straight from the Himalayan region. Beautifully handcrafted in Nepal, the journals sold here are presented in an array of designs featuring feathers, flowers, and other elemental embellishments, with raw, right-off-the-bark feeling, textured pages. Each one is a treasured keepsake to be filled and saved through the ages.845.256.1940; www.himalayanartsnp.com
High-end EyewearLuxe Optique, BeaconHow many eyewear shops do you know that consider your overall lifestyle? At Luxe Optique, the perfect frame starts with a standard full eye exam, but the optician will also chat with you about your occupation, daily activities, and image aspirations. Then you’ll choose from handmade frames made from the highest quality plastics, titaniums, steels, and precious metals, ensuring that you get quality, long-lasting eyewear. They won’t let you down. As owner Laurie Riehle will tell you, “Our patients are a reflection of ourselves.”845.838.2020; www.luxeoptique.com
Local PotteryBerkshire Pottery, HillsdaleLocated in a red, 19th-century barn on an old dairy farm, this second-generation pottery has been crafting lovely hand-made and freehand-painted wares since 1960. Combining Old World craftsmanship with practicality, all pieces are food, dishwasher, and oven-safe and durable enough to be used everyday — but special enough for display. While classic designs are kept in stock for collectors, new ones are also added regularly.518.325.4567; www.berkshirepottery.com
Place to Buy a Bottle of WineKingston Wine Co., KingstonShop owner Michael Drapkin is a storehouse of knowledge — not just about every bottle in the place, but wine in general — and his passion for the beverage and ability to divine exactly what you are looking for are just two factors that set this venue apart. Tie in the curated selection, reasonable price points, and descriptive wine tag-witticisms (Recently spotted: “No Jedi mind tricks here, this IS the bottle you’re looking for: simple & versatile.”), and it will become clear why customers immediately become so loyal.845.340.9463; www.kingstonwine.com
Place to Buy a TractorPine Bush Equipment co, Inc., Pine Bush, Holmes, Newington, CTWhether you’re a weekender looking for a tractor mower, a contractor looking to expand your fleet, or a full-on farmer, this is the place for you. The Boniface family, owners of Pine Bush Equipment for 61 years(!), is a bonafide bastion of knowledge. And, PBE continues meeting its customers’ needs long after the sale is closed: Techs will happily service your equipment in-store and off-site.845.744.2006, Pine Bush; www.pbeinc.com
New Bottle ShopThe Reed Street Bottle Shop, CoxsackieIn the small town of Coxsackie, you’ll find the even smaller storefront of Reed Street, a venue that opened in July of 2016 and has been making big waves in the local bottle-selling scene. The shop offers an eclectic collection of expertly chosen, independent producers that are both domestically sourced and international; prices are reasonable; and — perhaps most important — the owners will make sure you feel informed and comfortable.   518.731.6326; www.reedstreetbottleshop.com
Rustic Furniture MakerRomancing the Woods, SaugertiesThe work of wood sculpture artist Rob Davis shows his deep respect for our surrounding environment in both its aesthetics and its origins. Using locally and sustainable harvested eastern red cedar, Davis converts branches into beautifully constructed outdoor furniture and woodland garden structures that preserve a seamless flow between the work of man and nature.845.246.6976; www.romancingthewoods.com
Ski & Snowboard ShopPotter Brothers Ski & Snowboard Shops, Kingston, Fishkill, plus locations in MA and VTStarting as a small-town sports store in Kingston, Potter Brothers is getting ready to celebrate its 70th year in business, nowadays operating shops across three state regions. They’ve got all the professional gear you need for an adventurous wintertime outing  — skis and boards of course, goggles, helmets, jackets, et al — but the real secret to their longtime existence is the service, which continues to be educated, personal, and all-over outstanding.    845.338.5119, Kingston; www.potterbrothers.com
Stationery Store & Gift shopPink Olive, Cold SpringLet your imagination run wild in this whimsical shop. With four sister shops in New York City, this Hudson Valley outpost is filled with a carefully curated collection of goods from local and national artists alike. Choose from their letterpress cards, stationery, pens and pencils, planners, and other “little things” like candles, artwork, and jewelry that make perfect gifts.856.666.7177; www.pinkolive.com
Wedding PhotographerEID Photography, PoughkeepsieProfessional photog Elissa Davidson brings a deeper understanding of what lovers are looking for when capturing their special day. We’re not the only ones who think so: a past Best of the Knot winner, her gorgeous photography and hand-designed albums ensure that wedding memories last a lifetime — so much so that she is often asked to shoot a couple’s subsequent lifetime events, including newborn and family portraiture.845.797.2222; www.eidphotography.com
Yarn ShopThe Warm Ewe, ChathamThe tidy storefront here is tight-knit with immaculately organized skeins and fabrics — including hyper-locally sourced, hand-dyed yarn and wool. Plus, classes abound for novice and experienced needlers of all sorts. The thread that ties it all together? That’s owner Anne McDermott, who’s so devoted to the cozy setup that she was a customer for three decades before purchasing it in 2014. 518.392.2929; www.thewarmewe.com

photo by Kenneth Gabrielsen

Antiques Shop

The Antiques Barn at Water Street Market
New Paltz; 845.255.1403

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Baby/Children’s Boutique

Waddle n Swaddle
Rhinebeck; 845.876.5952
(plus two other locations)

 

Bargain Shopping

Paws for a Cause DSPCA Thrift Shoppe
Hyde Park; 845.240.1368

 

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Beer Store

Half Time Beverage
Poughkeepsie; 845.462.5400

Bookstore

Oblong Books & Music
Rhinebeck; 845.876.0500

 

Boutique

Oliver Anne Boutique
Montgomery; 845.457.5683

 

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Bridal Shop

Town Shop Bridal
Poughkeepsie; 845.471.1580

 

Consignment Shop

Curvy boutique & formals
Wappingers Falls; 845.218.9300

 

Crafts/Hobby Store

Hobby Lobby Arts & Crafts
Poughkeepsie; 845.298.3235

 

Farmers Market

Rhinebeck Farmers Market
Rhinebeck

 

Fish Market

Gadaleto’s Seafood Market + Restaurant
New Paltz
Find them on Facebook

 

Florist

Adams Fairacre Farms
Poughkeepsie; 845.454.4300
(plus three other locations)

 

Fresh Produce

Adams Fairacre Farms
Poughkeepsie; 845.454.4300
(plus three other locations)

Gourmet Shop

Beacon Pantry
Beacon; 845.440.8923

 

Health Food Store

Mother Earth’s Storehouse
Poughkeepsie; 845.296.1069

 

Jewelry Store

Zimmer Brothers
Poughkeepsie; 845.454.6360

 

Liquor Store

Viscount Wines & Liquor
Wappingers Falls; 845.298.0555

 

Menswear

Changes Inc.
Rhinebeck; 845.876.1345

 

Outdoors Sports Store

Kenco Outfitters
Kingston; 845.340.0552

 

Portrait Photographer

Delconte Photography
Rhinebeck; 845.551.1604

 

Wedding Photographer

Delconte Photography
Rhinebeck; 845.551.1604

 

Wine Store

Arlington Wine & Liquor
Poughkeepsie; 845.452.2175

 

Womenswear

Oliver Anne Boutique
Montgomery; 845.457.5683


Pets

Dog Park

Paul Jr. Designs Dog Park
Montgomery; 845.522.5222

 

Doggy Daycare

Groomingdales
Lagrangeville; 845.447.1364

 

Pet Resort

Pet N Play Luxury Pet Resort
Newburgh; 845.562.7861

 

Pet Store

Dexter’s Dog Boutique
Rhinebeck; 845.516.4803

 

Veterinary Hospital

Arlington Animal Hospital
Poughkeepsie; 845.473.0301 

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