In or around Cortlandt Manor, New York
The holidays have arrived and if you are looking for some last-minute experience-focused gifts, and want to support some pretty cool local businesses near Cortlandt Manor, I put together a list of some of my favorite places.
Give the gift of new brows. Based in Croton on Hudson, Luisa is truly an artist, she takes her time with each client and truly makes brow shaping a luxury experience. She transformed my barely there brows and gave me newfound confidence.
Pro Tip: add the Gua Sha Neck Massage or Aromatherapy Scalp Massage to your brow appointment, you will not be disappointed.
Based in Peekskill, Tuscana Pasta has been creating fresh pasta and sauces for over 40 years with its family recipes and values originating from small-town Italy. The storefront is attached to the manufacturing facility so you are getting the freshest, best product available. Perfect for holiday entertaining, a gift card or to put together an Italian-themed gift basket. Definitely try out all the different types of ravioli.
Based in Peekskill center, Lile Boutique is a spa but also a shop and event space, even if you are not getting a service, it's worth it to just pop in to see what local goods they have available.
As I get older my skincare routine is more of a priority, I alternate between the Classic Cleanse Facial and the Clear Days Facial (the cold globe facial massage is heaven). Not only is the experience wonderful but the price is refreshing as well. Purchasing a gift card here is a wonderful gesture that your loved one will definitely cherish.
Based in Cold Spring, this one is worth the trip north. A friend and I recently took a wreath-making class here and we walked out with the most beautiful finished product that I can't believe I made.
The owner, Marcella, truly loves what she does. The Parcel is not only a flower shop and workshop space but they do private events and parties as well. This is the perfect spot to pick out a gift that needs a little extra presentation or to gift someone you love a flower arranging workshop, (that one is next one on my list).
Based in Briarcliff Manor, this paint-your-own pottery shop is a favorite from kids to adults. I started giving gift certificates for my kids' friends' birthdays from here, gifting an experience is always appreciated!
My three kids (ages 9, 6, and 3) have the best time picking out a piece to paint, taking their time painting it, and then when their finished product is ready a week later they are so excited to see how it turned out. I'm also not going to lie, I love joining in the fun and have created some beautiful mugs and cups I use daily.
I also went to a sip-and-paint birthday party here which was such a fun and creative idea.
Amy Galinko is a local watercolor artist who sells beautiful prints through her Etsy shop. She also offers commissioned house portraits, which makes the perfect gift for someone you love.
Based in Peekskill center, Whiskey River is a great place to invite someone you love for dinner or lunch. The Mother Clucker sandwich is a personal favorite of mine and the whiskey drinks will not disappoint.
Not necessarily a local business, but my parents gave my kids The Empire Pass last year for Christmas, this gave us the opportunity to visit NY's national parks for free or reduced prices and swim in our favorite spot Canopos Lake in Fahnestock State Park.
Newly opened in Peekskill, owner Auzerais Bellamy specializes in blondies, cookies, and 11-layer cake jars. The decadent treats are the perfect gift for your foodie friends or family.
Right in the heart of downtown Peekskill, The Lounge House is a one-stop shop for candles, clothes, accessories, photo ops, and all things trending. The perfect spot to grab a last-minute gift or to add that extra something to a gift card.
Based in Croton on Hudson, a local sneaker shop that helps each client find their perfect fitting running shoe.
Based in Cortlandt Manor, SamMade Sweets is one of my favorite places to buy custom cakes for my kids' birthday parties. I also ordered custom cookies for my FIL's retirement party which was a huge hit and not to mention delicious. She can create anything you envision and is so easy to work with. The perfect treats to gift with a gift card or to hand deliver to someone close to you.
And last but not least, one of my favorite gifts of course is a photography session. Reach out to me and we can customize a gift certificate for a loved one, give a Family Session, Headshots, or a Portraiture session, truly a gift that will last a lifetime :).