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After taking a peek at our features in this February edition of Go Local — it’s safe to say each business is crafted with love.
This past fall I was visiting one of my friends in Maine, with another friend from Connecticut who always makes the trip up with me. The Connecticut friend brought a small gift for us each — delicate and intricate handmade earrings from aclay — a Connecticut small business that focuses on creating small batches of polymer clay earrings, and other accessories. Mine were beautiful little orange pumpkins, while one friend had witch hats, and the other a ghost that held a small pumpkin in its hands. Instantly I wrote a note to myself that we needed to feature aclay’s jewelry in Go Local.
I followed Annika — aclay’s owner — on Instagram immediately, and promptly exclaimed to my friend, “Oh I NEED these.” It was a photo of two hoop earrings from the prior Christmas — one earring featured Rudolph, and the other, Clarice. Once Annika restocked her holiday jewelry, I quickly purchased the earrings. I was so impressed with the beautiful packaging, fast shipping and of course — the gorgeous earrings themselves. I received so many compliments over the holidays as I wore them out and about. It’s clear Annika makes her jewelry with love.
When editor Lauren LeBel went out to Max’s Swing Lounge to complete the interview for this magazine she sent me a text afterword, sharing what a beautiful facility they have and that we should consider having a news team outing at the business.
Later that day, I had an event in the Basketball Hall of Fame where Max’s Swing Lounge is located, and I couldn’t have agreed more. From the brown and green leather chairs to the gleaming bar, to the extra-large golf screens and spaces — Max’s Swing Lounge is a haven for novice’s and experts alike — with care undoubtedly taken in making the space warm and inviting.
The Guilty Grape is one of Wilbraham’s newest businesses, in the stunning recently built white building next to Crane Park. Offering craft beer, wines, snacks and more — it’s the perfect place to gather some goodies for a carefully crafted evening in — or out. They even have the cheeseboard to feature your snacks on!
When I think about what ties each of these businesses together, it’s their commitment to creating experiences and products that feel both personal and intentional. They exemplify what it means to pour love into what you do.
Each business has a story, and as we move through February, a month often associated with love, I encourage you to think beyond the traditional notions and celebrate the love and effort that local entrepreneurs put into their work.
These aren’t just businesses — they’re dreams brought to life. Whether you’re spending a night out swinging golf clubs, a night in enjoying wine or craft beer with artisanal cheeses or perhaps gifting a pair of unique handmade earrings to a friend, you’re supporting the incredible people who make Massachusetts and Connecticut a wonderful place to live.
Thanks for reading,
Payton North, Executive Editor
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