December 2014 - Extras: Old Town in a New Light
Tradition is a big thing here in the Land of Enchantment. For almost three centuries, Old Town has been the crossroads of the Southwest. It is the Historical Zone of the City of Albuquerque and home for many families whose ancestors founded the town. It has become a tourist attraction for entertainment for those passing through, but there are some new businesses in the area that are looking to expand that to a certain type of people that hasn't been taking part in the beautiful of Old Town and that is the locals. Three businesses want to show local citizens that Old Town is not about the past, but what you think about when you want something unique during the holiday season and all the other days in between. New Mexico Entertainment asked them What do you feel you offer that is unique about your business, what do you want locals to know about Old Town, and what do locals have to look forward to visiting your business?
CHRIS JAMES: OLD TOWN CELTIC SHOP
What do you feel you offer that is unique about your business?
We are the only Celtic store in the whole state. We offer unique jewelry/gifts that no other store in Old Town has. We support local artists.
What do you want locals to know about Old Town?
Old Town is a unique shopping experience. There is more to explore than shopping at a mall. There are many historical buildings and places to visit. There are many restaurants. There are ghost tours, gunfight reenactments and two museums as well as music on the plaza.
What do locals have to look forward to visiting your business?
Most of our jewelry is authentic and is imported from Ireland and Scotland.We have affordable jewelry and gifts that fit all price ranges. We feature many local artists that work in various mediums of glass, pottery, photography, wood, paintings and jewelry. We support local Celtic music and often have live performers at the store.
CATHERINE WEBSTER: CATHERINE'S CACHE
What do you feel you offer that is unique about your business? What do locals have to look forward to visiting your business?
I think what we offer at our shop that makes it unique, and what locals can look forward to when visiting our store would be the following:
At Catherine's Cache we offer a more traditional approach to doing business combined with contemporary and innovative product lines.
We offer high fashion and accessory lines but also that small town charm and personal touch that our locals should expect from our businesses. We offer gift certificates and layaway, as well as complimentary gift wrapping and refreshments. We want our customers to feel as if they are being welcomed into our home.
We are also part of the community with a portion of each sale of our most popular line donated to Special Olympics New Mexico and Saint Martin's Hospitality Center for the homeless of Albuquerque.
What do you want locals to know about Old Town?
What the locals should know about Old Town is that it is a beautiful blend of unique shops and restaurants that extends way beyond tourism. While a more traditional Southwest flair is the heart of Old Town, as it well should be, there is a vast array of shops offering an eclectic assortment of merchandise that can only be found in Old Town. If you are looking for items for yourself or as gifts for others you are going to find that something special here that the big box shops cannot offer.
AMANDA DUFFY: SCENTCHIPS
What do you feel you offer that is unique about your business?
Scentchips are the original fragrance melt. They can be melted for a more vibrant fragrance in place of candles or incense, or can be used as potpourri in dressers drawers and linen closets. We offer a uniquely customizable way to experience fragrance in your home or office. Customers can custom blend their own unique fragrance or can choose from many of our popular blends. In addition to Scentchips we offer quality handmade soaps, bath bombs, and lotions. These are all made in the United States and are made of all Eco-friendly ingredients. We also carry Nambe items, one of a kind art pieces, and handmade crafts.
What do you want locals to know about Old Town?
I would love locals to know that locals have businesses in Old Town. There are several new businesses, and we all offer unique and beautiful items. In addition to the great new stores, there is always something fun happening in Old Town. During the summer months there is live music in the plaza every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There are many festivals and concerts that happen throughout the year. You can have a blast watching the Elvis impersonators on Elvis day, try some salsa at the annual Salsa Fest, and then come back and find the perfect Mother's day gift or birthday present. There is more than just shopping and eating in Old Town. Come down and experience some history and make some new friends.
What do locals have to look forward to visiting your business?
When locals come to visit our store they are in for a truly delightful fragrance adventure. We pride ourselves in excellent customer service, and offer a genuinely memorable experience. We enjoy what we do and we like to share this with our customers. We will tell you all about Scentchips, our handmade soaps, and Nambe; and will even help you customize your own fragrance. We have several different specials available all year and will combine your purchase in the best way to save you money. We also offer shipping and a local’s club card.