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Bristol Yoga

Celebrate the holiday season with some sensational stretches and newfound flexibility at Bristol Yoga Studio. Specializing in hatha yoga, which combines physical and mental strength building exercises, Bristol Yoga Studio welcomes individuals of all fitness levels to come experience the calming, invigorating effects of yoga. In addition to a regular group class schedule seven days per week, they also offer a variety of workshops and personalized yoga instruction. Come alone or bring a friend for the group-based classes, which promote socialization as much as personal empowerment. For the more experienced or adventurous yoga enthusiast, the workshops offer interesting twists on the usual hatha yoga routine, often encouraging self-exploration and emotional healing.

Bristol Yoga Studio promotes personal growth through community service events, which seek to help such organizations as the Bristol Animal Shelter, East Bay Food Pantry and St. Andrew’s School. Truly believing yoga is appropriate for everyone, Bristol Yoga Studio strives to bring more yoga to more people. Whether an individual can’t touch their toes or can turn themselves into a pretzel, there’s a class at Bristol Yoga Studio suited for all styles.

Plus, the skilled instructors offer a wide variety of experience and instruction to their students. Each one brings their own expertise to the classroom, so as to ensure students, both new practitioners and those who have been practicing for a long time, always have an individual willing to discuss the deeper offerings of yoga. Friendly, encouraging and inviting, Bristol Yoga Studio’s atmosphere allows individuals to shed away their workday stresses.

Although the holiday season’s usual tradition is gifting items or edible treats, providing someone with the benefits of Bristol Yoga Studio allows for long-lasting results that continue well after the holidays. Few other gifts can match the self-improvement potential of yoga. Quite simply, it’s the kind of gift that keeps on giving. Check out one of their free classes to see what hatha yoga has to offer. 676 Hope St., Bristol • (401) 569-0147

Barrington Business Association

One of the East Bay’s secret shopping gems is Barrington, a town rich with gift shops and boutiques offering one-of-a-kind work. Thankfully, to help stave off the bank-breaking prices often associated with the holidays, the Barrington Business Association makes it easy and affordable to find and purchase quality art and products. In fact, it’s what they’re all about during the holidays.

Keep an ear out for their upcoming Festival of Lights, an annual celebration that kicks off the holiday season in style. Past years have featured a visit from Santa Claus, a trolley ride around town, choirs and plenty of festive cheer. The event, to be held on December 7, encourages businesses to invite customers in for a relaxing and memorable holiday shopping experience, and many businesses run deals or stay open longer than usual during the event. And as the name suggests, lights are strewn across the town, creating a winter wonderland that simply has to be seen.

Also for the holiday season, the Barrington Business Association puts out its annual Passport to Savings, which can be obtained during the Festival of Lights. The Passport to Savings provides a wide selection of coupons and offers targeted at businesses around the Barrington area. Moreover, the Passport allows shoppers to enter into a raffle drawing for a shopping spree. Last year’s shopping spree amount was approximately $1,000!

The Barrington Business Association constantly strives to close the gap between the excellent shops and stores around Barrington and those who wish to buy their goods. The Association works with both parties to create opportunities in which shoppers can easily access extravagant gifts available around the town. After all, countless individuals flock to Barrington during the holiday season and the Association is always working to build an even stronger bridge between consumers and craft sellers

From the annual Festival of Lights to the Passport to Savings, the Barrington Business Association welcomes any and all to come see the wonder and beauty of Barrington, a shopping destination ripe with culture, creativity and the promise of unique gifts. Take a trip to this area of the East Bay to see what kinds of stores are carrying special items for this year’s holiday season. EmailBarrington Business Association.

Country Woolens

What began in 1977 as a sweater and yarn shop has now become one of the go-to stores for country-style clothing and casual sportswear. Country Woolens, a self-described “outdoor store,” continues to expand its already extensive selection of clothing and footwear brands, which include such recognizable names as North Face, SmartWool and Merrell – reliable companies capable of equipping even the most rugged of outdoor enthusiasts.

Country Woolens also stocks a large offering of everyday men’s and women’s clothing, each designed to both enhance style and comfort. These items combine functionality with fashion and are appropriate for as much the urban explorer as the backwoods wanderer, which makes Country Woolens products stand out as exceptional gifts for individuals of all ages. Within their store lies an appropriate gift for individuals of all ages and walks of life.

Of course, to make the shopping experience even better, County Woolens features a weekly-changing bargain basement. Here, unbelievable price cuts mingle with amazing products, creating a sense of thrill for shoppers hoping to score big. And with so many weeks left until the holidays, there are plenty of opportunities to find the perfect deal. Stop in between errands or get lost for hours among the bargain shelves – the excitement of holiday gift-giving begins long before the first unwrapping.

Few gifts provide the same durability and longevity as those stocked by Country Woolens, for outdoor equipment must withstand the test of time as much as the trials of nature. While other clothing companies focus on visual appeal, Country Woolens’ brands go further: utility and endurance are inherent, providing worthwhile gifts that continue giving year after year.

And as if the always available gift wrapping weren’t enough, Country Woolens’ staff takes each customer into personal consideration, so as to ensure everyone leaves with exactly what they need: quality country-living clothing or sportswear that complements the wearer’s lifestyle, whether that be rugged or refined. After all, the best gifts are the ones that make life easier, and that’s exactly what Country Woolens’ products set out to do.

From the rain jackets to the hiking shoes – and everything in between – Country Woolens truly lives up to and exceeds its self described title. 842 Main Road, Westport • (508) 636-5661

Farmstead Mercantile

Farmstead Mercantile is one of Rhode Island’s most festive shopping experiences. Located in a two-story barn on a historic farmstead, it is one of Warren’s largest shopping destinations featuring everything from candles to custom furniture and antiques. The history of the farmstead alone is worth a trip, once part of a rare 17th century saltwater livestock farm. In fact, the farm’s house is the oldest extent house in Warren and is protected as such by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission. While the history is worth the trip, it is the wide range of products masterfully arranged and displayed by shopkeeper Terry Stone that make Farmstead Mercantile special.

The first floor is what the Stone family calls a “country store with a twist.” It is not your grandma’s country store – featuring a selection of gifts and décor for just about everyone’s taste and for every season. In addition to decorative items, the shop sells skincare lines such as Farmaesthetics and The Naked Bee. Both make excellent gifts as well as are an ideal cure for cracked winter skin. The selection of classic kids toys are great stocking stuffers.

Every November and December, the shop is transformed into a winter wonderland offering holiday themed accents, decorative floral, hundreds of unique ornaments, and a selection of hand poured soy candles that will have everyone wondering where you hid the real tree. Kicking the festivities up a notch, the shop is hosting its first ever “Cheers! with Santa,” a collaboration with Bottles Fine Wine of Providence. At 6pm on Friday, November 22, the event is the ideal breather before the hectic week of Thanksgiving. (Visit farmsteadri.com/santa to learn more and purchase tickets.)

The fun only begins on the first floor, as the second floor houses a sky-lit space filled with antiques, art, and furniture. Divided into separate spaces, the Stone family has recruited a group of antique and vintage dealers that will transport you to a different time. Whether it is a couple hundred years old or a fun reminder of growing up in the ‘50s and ‘60s, it’s easy to find a small memento or a conversation piece for your home. A number of the dealers participate in the holiday festivities, bringing out hard to find antique ornaments and ephemera that any collector on your list would love to have.

Shopkeeper Terry says, “Some customers prefer the upstairs and some prefer the downstairs. What’s really fun is when someone is able to find something from both floors… blending the old with the new

Bring a friend or family member and make an event out of it. Don’t blame us if you end up spending a whole afternoon there! 384 Market Street, Warren • (401) 289-2102

J&J Diamond Jewelers

For over 25 years, the family-owned and -operated J&J Diamond Jewelers has provided customers with an unrivaled jewelry buying experience. Much of their passion stems from their pursuit of procuring only the finest of jewelry on the market, but it also results from their years of hands-on customer services techniques and diamond expertise.

Featuring such valued and recognizable brands as Kameleon, Chamilia, Bella Ryann and John Medeiros, J&J Diamond Jewelers is as much known for their reliable selection as their affordable prices. Customers of all walks of life can walk into the store and easily find an appropriate piece for their budget, either for themselves or as a gift for someone special. With J&J Diamond Jewelers, holidays don’t have to break the bank.

Moreover, they offer a wealth of information and education regarding jewelry care and maintenance. Rather than leave customers unaided and misinformed, J&J Diamond Jewelers takes the time to help each customer understand the proper steps to ensure a diamond or metal keeps its eternal shine, which helps when giving such gifts to friends and family. Receiving an item as astonishing as those offered at J&J Diamond Jewelers, along with the know-how to keep them looking as great as possible, is the perfect way to truly show someone that you care.

What further sets J&J Diamond Jewelers apart from the competition is their ability to custom make almost any jewelry piece upon request. If shopping for someone who seems to have everything under the sun, make them a unique, individualized piece of jewelry that stands out from their usual assortment. Simply walk into J&J Diamond Jewelers and ask an associate about how to get started.

From the calm, welcoming atmosphere to the unbeatable prices, everything about J&J Diamond Jewelers is designed to ensure each customer receives a fully enjoyable holiday shopping experience. No stress over affordability. No worries about finding a personalized gift. No anxiety from stepping into an unfamiliar store. Customers agree, shopping with J&J Diamond Jewelers is an experience best enjoyed firsthand. Come find out why so many other individuals choose them as their jewelers for the holidays. 167 Borden Street, Fall River • (508) 676-7169

Milan Clothiers

A distinctive man needs a distinctive wardrobe. Milan, a third-generation custom tailor shop, welcomes customers to design a wardrobe that is functional and suited to each individual’s needs. After all, everyone has their own unique style, whether it be business, casual or just an everyday look, and Milan’s professional tailors can make sure every outfit is at its best.

Milan offers everything from luxurious handmade suits to a basic pair of fitted jeans, and all of their clothing comes with the same reputable quality that Milan is known for. More importantly, their tailors are always up on the latest fashion trends, so as to ensure each customer goes away with a look that lasts a while.

And that same passion for quality, stylish clothing goes into each item’s fabric. For example, Milan specializes in luxurious cashmere and merino sweaters - two materials that wear like a dream - while also providing casual cotton sweaters and shirts. This way, customers can customize their wardrobe for as much comfort and wearability as style and appeal.

If something doesn’t fit quite right, Milan’s tailors and seamstresses are available on the premises for all alternation needs. Plus, Milan accepts outside alterations performed by other tailors, and private appointments are available for individuals in need of a personal look at one’s outfit. All of this Milan offers because their passion is for fashion, and they believe everyone deserves a wardrobe built for their form and function.

Finally, to help complete an outfit, Milan also carries a full line of accessories, including such apparel as hats, gloves, belts, neckware, wallets, cufflinks and more. More importantly, they offer an extensive amount of leather, such as car coats, top coats and other casual outerwear. Combined with Milan’s already wide range of quality clothing, these accessories are the icing on anyone’s fashion cake.

Since knowing someone else’s exact clothing preferences and sizes can be difficult, Milan encourages holiday shoppers to purchase gift certificates. These cards provide the receiver with the means to build their own wardrobe, and it gives them the ability to explore their own style tastes. And what better gift is there than helping someone learn more about what they like? 270 County Road, Barrington • (401) 247-9209 • 178 Wayland Avenue, Providence • (401) 621-6452

Luna Sea Shop

What better way to show someone love than to buy a gift for their health? For such an occasion, turn to the professional services of Luna Sea, a specialty store offering natural remedies and green goods that are healing for both people and the environment. Furnishing their shelves with environmentally- and ecologically- friendly provisions and botanicals, this unique shop is filled with only the highest quality of sustainable goods.

In addition to offering such items as herbs, spices, teas, greeting cards and hand-crafted items, Luna Sea specializes in fresh fragrants and colorful organic botanicals that enhance a wearer’s general wellness. These bouquets affect the mind as much as the body, enhancing emotional well-being and happiness. They are the kind of gifts that continue to provide satisfaction well after the holiday season.

Of course, everyone enjoys some immediate satisfaction now and again, and Luna Sea’s organic chocolates fulfill that exact role. Both blissfully tasty and environmentally satisfying, these scrumptious morsels are made from cocoa beans that have not been treated with synthetic fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides. They are all-natural chocolate packed with antioxidants, immune boosters and a deliciously sinful flavor that is sure to have individuals of all ages smiling wide.

Luna Sea’s passion for high quality organics is mirrored in their teas. Available in a wide variety of healthful taste sensations, each tea contains their own individual healing traits designed to relax the drinker’s senses. From sleep assistance to mental calmness, attentive focus to invigorating rest, Luna Sea’s teas are appropriate for anyone looking to add something special to their day-to-day life.

In keeping with the green focus, all of Luna Sea’s greeting cards are made from renewable sources. Each one is uniquely designed and produced from 100% recycled good, featuring a salutation and saying for any occasion or holiday. Add one to a stocking or gift basket for an additional touch of creativity.

When in the market for something special and unique, turn to Luna Sea and their handcrafted goods, or pick up any number of their natural remedies for a long-lasting gift that keeps on giving. Venture in soon to discover what other kind of green gifts are waiting in the uncharted waters of Luna Sea. 259 Thames St., Bristol • (401) 256-0485

Plante Jewelers

As a third-generation company operated by wife-husband team Nancy and Pierre, Plante Jewelers continues providing customers with an unbeatable shopping experience and pieces as creative as they are beautiful. Specializing in a wide variety of jewelry, Plante encourages would-be shoppers to come in, try on as much as they desire and then create their own Wish List, which helps make holiday shopping easier for family and friends.

Featured jewelry comes from both local and regional designers, providing a wide selection showcasing talent from various locations. Plante also proudly offers some gorgeous, rare gemstones from Sri Lanka. Every piece comes with the Plante history of quality and value, and prices range from the affordable to the extravagant, ensuring individuals of all tastes find their perfect accompaniment.

For those looking for something more shiny than shimmering, Plante offers a wealth of silver and handmade metal jewelry, each designed to accentuate the wearer’s inherent beauty and complement fashion styles. Of course, many of their metal pieces also come with beautiful diamonds or gemstones. No matter which side of the jewelry world a customer supports – diamonds/gemstones or metallic, or some combination of both – Plante provides more options than ever thought possible.

To further the jewelry experience, Plante’s gemstones and diamonds come in both loose and set-in varieties, providing more gift giving options. After all, with so many individuals emotionally tied to their jewelry, it’s important to understand which piece is appropriate as a gift. But don’t worry – Plante’s jewelry specialists take the necessary steps to help guide both the inexperienced and the self-described expert toward the exact piece that puts a smile on someone’s face. Shopping for jewelry has never been so easy – or fun – as with Plante Jewelers.

Lastly, starting November 1, everyone who creates a Wish List is automatically entered into a drawing for a $500 gift certificate. The winner will be picked on December 21, just in time for a very special Christmas.

Whether it’s a necklace for a niece, a gold ring for a family member or a pair of earrings for a special friend, Plante Jewelers’ valued collection has something in stock for everyone on the holiday shopping list. 207 Swansea Mall Drive, Swansea • (508) 673-0561

Revival

Revival gifts, antiques, and home furnishings has begun its 6th year in business with a brand new location and expansion that includes a European style tea room called “Tea at the Belvedere.” In addition to the fine eclectic mix of old and new merchandise, they now plan to begin offering both counter service for tea and pastry as well as afternoon tea by reservation on select days. Revival and Tea at The Belvedere are the visions of owners Diamantino and Victoria Fonseca who developed the idea of these businesses in order to establish and support Grace and Hope Place, a long term substance abuse program for women and their children. In a way, buying a gift from Revival also gives a gift to someone in need – the gift of a second chance and good will from a stranger. Revival also purchases products from many vendors who also “give back,” doubling the good will all around.

Tea at The Belvedere has future plans to include events such as murder mystery teas, Disney Princess teas, etiquette classes, tea tastings, book signings, craft classes and more. “Like” them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, or sign up on the in store or website mailing list to stay informed of the latest developments, sales, and special offers.

There have been lots of changes for Revival this year but be assured that whether enjoying shopping at Revival and choosing from among their unique and interesting gifts, or sipping tea at Tea at The Belvedere, the personal and superior customer service focused on honesty and integrity that their customers have come to expect, remains the goal of each and every staff member.

When the holiday season comes around this year, take a trip to Bristol’s Revival, a store that helps shoppers as much as the community. Give thanks for those who mean the most today, and know that every purchase promotes a safer, more loving world. 423 Hope Street, Bristol • (401) 396-9806

New England Charm: Tiverton Four Corners

The Cottage
THE COTTAGE features a constantly changing selection of furnishings from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Lee and Janus et Cie. They also carry unique rugs, dinnerware, glass and more. 3847 Main Rd., 401-625-5814;

Courtyards
COURTYARDS, a national award-winning shop, offers a whimsical collection of garden art, decorative and functional pottery, artisan crafted jewelry, home accents, and ever changing eccentricities. Stop by or shop online! 3980 Main Rd., 401-624-8682;

Gilpatric Fine Art Painting
GILPATRIC FINE ART PAINTING focuses on Coastal New England land and seascapes. Small hand-painted gifts for the holidays. Welcome to our second floor studio. 3879 Main Rd., 2B, 401-440-3974

Katherine Lovell Studio & Gallery
Paintings, prints and fabrics, all inspired by local landscape, are available at Kathrine Lovell Studio & Gallery. For the holidays: hand-painted ornaments that add a golden sophistication to any tree. 3964 Main Road, 743-6077

Milk & Honey
MILK & HONEY, an artisanal cheese and specialty foods market, carries over 100 varieties of cheese, fine chocolates and host/ hostess gifts. Happy to create holiday gift baskets and platters! 3838 Main Rd., 401-624-1974

Silk Road Traders
SILK ROAD TRADERS at Gallery 4 specializes in Oriental rugs, Chinese furniture, fine jewelry, cashmere and silk scarves, Kilim shoes handbags and home goods, Iznik ceramics and vintage pottery. 3848 Main Rd., 401-816-0999

Studio by the Sea
STUDIO BY THE SEA; Peter Tirpaeck, Jeweler. 25 years of transforming, repairing and creating. Call for an appointment today! 3879 Main Rd., 401-816-5655

Susan Freda Studios
SUSAN FREDA STUDIOS at Gallery 4, known for organic and intricate styles, uses unusual processes to create beautiful jewelry, dresses, sculptures and more. Visit their store or shop online. 3848 Main Rd., 401-225-3721

Winter Arts & Artisan Fair
WINTER ARTS & ARTISAN FAIR, happening December 14 & 15, features jewelry, paintings and more, from artists around the region. Come complete an entire holiday shopping list! The Meeting House, 3850 Main Rd

ZuZu’s Petals

A fashionable mainstay in Providence’s East Side for the past 24 years (and in East Greenwich for five), ZuZu’s Petals now has a Barrington location sure to keep Easy Bay fashionistas happy and on-trend. Known for their stunning formalwear and casual dresses, ZuZu’s is an upscale shopping experience catering to women in need of an extra special outfit. And when it comes to ZuZu’s Petals, “extra special” goes further than the look – it’s about how it makes the wearer feel.

A common misconception when shopping for clothes is to think of them as merely an outer layer or a fashion statement, when in fact they should accentuate the wearer’s confidence. At ZuZu’s, fashion-savvy staff takes care of each individual’s needs, whether she wants to look sexy, strong, unique, bold or any combination of those. Their expertise in putting together outstanding outfits is what makes them such a spectacular shopping destination.

When shopping for the woman who has it all, turn to ZuZu’s for their wide selection of dresses, tops, jewelry and more. Plus, each one matches the store’s exacting standard of affordability and affluent, beautiful style. Few other stores can pull off the fine balance between the two, yet ZuZu’s Petals manages over and over to prove that it is possible. Come into the store to see exactly how it is done.

In addition to looks for work and play, ZuZu’s also stocks prom dresses and gowns for holiday parties and special events. After all, they believe the importance of feeling and looking good on a special day cannot be overstated.

Come this holiday season, turn to the fashion experts capable of empowering a woman’s inner strengths. Let her personality and power shine through the fabrics and she’ll never forget the gift. Much like those few special celebrations, she’ll remember receiving a ZuZu’s Petals outfit long after the holiday season. 338 C County Road, Barrington • (401) 245-3060

Shop, Dine, Visit: Westport

The Amber Rose
THE AMBER ROSE is a quaint country florist located in the heart of Westport Village. Family-owned and -operated, they offer a warm, stress-free environment and pride themselves on their quality of unique floral designs. They take care to craft each order to their customers’ needs. Stop in today or order online! 774 Main Rd., 508-636-2065;

A.S. Deams
A. S. DEAMS specializes in stocking items that surprise even the most fashion-minded individuals. From outfits to in-fits - and everything in between - A.S. Deams continues pursuing their passion for excellent and affordable clothing lines. Come see what thoughtful gifts can be found for someone special during this holiday season. 440 Main Rd., 508-636-0800;

Beautiful Things
BEAUTIFUL THINGS, a boutique shop offering wedding design and day-of coordination, offers beautiful products for home, a new baby and gifts. Their seasonal displays inspire customers to recreate them at home. Getting married? Visit Beautiful Things for their design services and day-of coordination, or join them for their Christmas Open House on November 14- 17. Follow them on Facebook! 772 Main Rd., 508-636-3300

Dedee Shattuck Gallery
DEDEE SHATTUCK GALLERY, from November 16 to December 22, presents Small Works Exhibit. Nearly 50 artists working in a diverse range of media present works priced $500 and under. This eclectic showing will intrigue and inspire viewers throughout the winter holiday season. Artists’ Reception is on November 16, 5-7pm. Gallery open Wednesdays to Saturdays, 10am-5pm, and Sundays, 12-5pm.1 Partners’ Ln., 508-636-4177;

Marguerite’s
MARGUERITE’S welcomes family and friends to gather for a special holiday meal, including such dishes as Seafood Provencal and Baked Stuffed Sole, along with an extensive kids menu. Don’t forget about the desserts, like their Grapenut Custard, Tapioca Pudding, Apple Crisp and Chocolate Seduction Cake. Contact them today for their current specials. 778 Main Rd., 508-636-3040;

Sisters of the Wool
SISTERS OF THE WOOL has perfect gifts for anyone who loves knitting. They offer needle sets from Knit Picks and Knitter’s Pride, and a huge selection of yarns from Cascade, Berroco, Plymouth and others, along with books and patterns to inspire knitters of all levels. Gift certificates are available for those wanting to give the gift of choice. 782 Main Rd., 774-264-9665

Barrington Books

At Barrington Books, you can buy a sticker for your car that simply says: BOOKS. But really, if you were to create a bumper sticker that embodies everything this neighborhood favorite offers, it would need to say READ, PLAY, ADORN, DECORATE, DELIGHT, INSPIRE and a whole lot more! That’s because Barrington Books is more than just a book store. In addition to all the latest bestsellers, cookbooks, children’s books, anthologies, art books, journals, magazines and cards, it offers heirloom quality toys, Rainbow Loom, unique accessories like Chan Luu and Spartina – plus inspired gifts for your home and table, like Simon Pearce and Arte Italica – all in one fabulous book, toy and gift store.

Barrington Books and The Studio is truly a one-stop holiday shopping destination with an exceptional selection. And, they offer complimentary gift wrapping year round, with live music on the weekends throughout the holiday season.

It’s nice, too, that with the great selection comes a store with a decidedly neighborhood feel. Barrington Books’ booksellers are friendly, knowledgeable and ready to help you find just the right book for the literary enthusiasts on your list. From memoir, to mystery to KOBO e-readers – they provide thoughtful suggestions for great reads that make perfect holiday gifts. And because the store hosts exciting author events all throughout the season, there are lots of opportunities to pick up personalized copies and autographed books across a variety of genres.

For those with little ones and teens on their list, look no further than Barrington Books’ dazzling children’s department – where young readers can cozy up with their favorite books in a magical floor-to-ceiling tree, while parents browse the amazing array of puppets, dolls, games, puzzles and activities. The store’s award winning kids section offers the perfect mix of distinctive toys and best-loved brands, such as Lego and Playmobil, to complement the wide selection of children’s and teen literature.

Be sure to visit Barrington Books and The Studio this holiday season. You’ll find amazing gifts for everyone on your list and LEAVE HAPPY! And happy should be a part of everyone’s holiday, right? (Hey, maybe we should put that on a bumper sticker...) 184 County Rd., Barrington • (401) 245-7925