Newtonville Books
Mary Cotton knows her customers and her literature. On a recent weekday, the owner of Newtonville Books (10 Langley Road) enthusiastically offered recommendations to a new customer who came in looking for a crime story. That personal touch, knowledgeable advice, and those unique offerings are what differentiate local, independent businesses from big-box stores and giant, generic websites.
As the holidays near, Cotton and other Newton business owners are ready to assist shoppers in finding last-minute presents for family, friends – and, yes, even themselves.
In addition to the best reads, you’ll find whimsical toys, funny socks, blank journals, a plethora of cards and more at Newtonville Books. Also, it’s not usual to find books signed by local authors and illustrators who stop by to do their own shopping.
Derby Farm Flowers and Gardens
Eleanor Roosevelt wore a “tricorn” hat to her husband’s 1941 inauguration, but at Derby Farm Flowers and Gardens (1280 Centre Street), she wears a plant on her head.
The “Eleanor” planter, named for the former first lady, is one of many eye-catching garden decorations in a range of prices available at the Newton Centre shop.
Co-owners Sonia Lackey and Lucinda Chrislip opened Derby Farm, which just celebrated its one-year anniversary, after running out of space at their original Arlington store.
During the initial year of the Covid pandemic, Lackey said the Arlington shop switched to delivery-only because there was a high demand for flowers.
Sending blooms, “was the only way people could connect,” she recalled. With the bigger Newton space, they were able to expand their business.
People with and without green thumbs can find a range of gifts at Derby Farm, including linens, jewelry, decorations and gardening equipment, among other choices.
The Paper Mouse
As their West Newton store, The Paper Mouse (1274 Washington Street), initially remained closed during the COVID outbreak, husband-and-wife co-owners Victor Lee and Jenny Zhang built their online store from scratch. They were able to retain all of their employees and grew their business as customers rediscovered an old-fashioned way to connect.
“People are appreciating a hand-written note again,” said Lee. He pointed out that fountain pens have become popular once more, especially when used with expressive, colorful inks and high-quality papers.
The Paper Mouse is also producing its own prints, cards, bags and stickers featuring the creations of in-house artist, Jean Gao.
Aside from paper goods, the small shop is full of gifts galore, including adorable animal toys and furniture by Maileg, locally made tea and chocolates, as well as stationery and writing implements for all tastes.
Folklorica
Don Gross, owner of Newton Centre independent gift store Folklorica (61 Union Street), is greeting his third generation of shoppers as the shop recently turned 50.
He and his buyers know exactly what kind of jewelry, scarves, bags, and other goodies his customers like, as evidenced by the longevity of his business.
“We have a broad range of designers,” said Gross on a recent weekday.
From artistic costume pieces to sparkling gems, the rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and watches on display appeal to all ages. In fact, there’s even a “teenage case,” to narrow down choices for younger fans.
Greentail Table
Linda da Valpine, owner of housewares store Greentail Table (343 Watertown Street), has a knack for picking out both sophisticated and whimsical items for the home.
The Nonantum shop, which opened in 2014, sells dinnerware, glassware, serveware, and tabletop linens, among other goods and gifts.
You can find handmade crackle mugs from Madeleine’s Mud Pie Studio in Newton, Murano glass “Lucky Lido” birds, and a $10 set of Golf Ball Ice Ball Molds, as well as food trays, placemats, party supplies, barware, baskets, platters, and items for children, to name a few gift ideas .
According to the store’s website, “Most products are handcrafted of natural and sustainable materials, and we carry fair trade merchandise from underdeveloped countries, while also featuring local makers.”
Are there other independent shops you love in Newton? Then email us and we’ll add them to the story.
