A unique shopping experience awaits those seeking elegance and sophistication in luxury designer handbags and accessories locally.
“I provide a unique boutique shopping experience and access to luxury designer handbags and accessories, historically not available to purchase in person in Maine,” Keenan said. “I also provide restoration services, including cleaning, touch ups, alterations, and small fixes for handbags and accessories. I specialize in ‘vintage’ luxury goods from the early 2000s, all the way back to the early 1980s. I have a unique knowledge of the style, design, history and manufacturing dates of each of the individual items, and the fashion houses that designed them. Customers also have the option to consign their own designer items and can request that I find specific items that they are looking for.”
Vine Vintage is the only store of its kind in the area and since its launch a year ago, it has developed a loyal and devoted following.
“There are other resale companies that categorize themselves as ‘thrift stores,’ while I categorize my store as a “resale boutique,” Keenan said. “Aside from the uniqueness of my store, what sets me apart the most is my pricing. While most pre-loved luxury handbags cost on average $1,500, my average sale is under $500. I’m able to provide affordable pricing by sourcing my inventory from close contacts that I have made in the industry over the years, as well as focusing on vintage pieces that need restoration services. Customers can feel confident that they are buying 100 percent authentic items, because I use a third-party company called Authentic Detective for each item. A certificate of authenticity is provided with each sale.”
Because of Keenan’s expertise and emphasis on providing exceptional customer service, pricing at Vine Vintage is among the lowest you can find locally and online for pre-loved designer handbags and accessories. She only sells genuine designer bags, and each one has been carefully chosen for the store in gently used vintage condition.
“Our bags are affordable in comparison to what is available new,” Keenan said. “People who never thought they could afford it find that luxury handbags and accessories can be affordable, contrary to what they may believe.”
With its convenient location in Windham, Vine Vintage offers customers many opportunities to view inventory not only in person, but also online and through social media.
“Because I have a website and online presence, I ship inventory all over the world,” Keenan said. “All items are available for in-store pickup or shipping.”
Vine Vintage Luxury Resale Boutique is a culmination of Keenan's love of vintage pieces, background in art, and previous business experience.
Reviews posted online about Vine Vintage are simply outstanding.
“Officially addicted. Prices and quality are unmatched. Nothing like a finding that vintage bag you’ve been searching for – coupled with a super sweetheart business owner! Very communicative and quick and I am a repeat offender for life!” Emily Cooke
“Recently purchased a beautiful Burberry Boston bag in basically brand-new condition from Vine Vintage. Jasmine was kind enough to give me ideas and different options to customize the bag to my needs. The shipping was super quick and came packaged beautifully. The bag in person is even more perfect and a piece that I hope to pass down to my daughter one day. Thank you again!” Jessica Campbell
“I recently purchased not one, not two, but three bags from Vine Vintage. I came to look at the stunning Gucci Diana tote and left with a YSL clutch converted to a crossbody and a Gucci shoulder tote. I cannot recommend Jasmine enough! I will absolutely be purchasing more bags from her in the future. It was such a great experience overall, and I truly can’t believe how gorgeous all 3 of my bags are. I am now the proud owner of some stunning vintage goods that I can’t wait to show off. 10/10 seller, product, experience, communication, and pricing!” Erin Leigh
For more details about Vine Vintage Luxury Resale Boutique, visit https://vinevintagebagco.com/ or find them on Facebook and Instagram under Vine Vintage Bag Co. <
Friday, May 2, 2025
Nonprofit Spotlight: Age Friendly Windham
Windham is making significant strides in ensuring residents of all ages and abilities can thrive. The town’s Age-Friendly Windham (AFW) initiative, which began as a grassroots effort among community volunteers and town staff, has evolved into a fully established program dedicated to expanding services, fostering partnerships, and advocating for infrastructure improvements that enhance residents’ quality of life.
Following severe storms in December 2023 and April 2024, Windham officials recognized the urgent need to improve emergency preparedness, particularly for older adults vulnerable to prolonged power outages. Through its participation in the Community Connections (CC) project, AFW has taken proactive steps to address these concerns.
Led by Age-Friendly Coordinator and Community Connector Erica Bell-Watkins, the initiative has successfully brought together key town departments—including Police, Fire, and Communications—to develop a more age-friendly and resource-conscious emergency response plan.
As part of this effort, AFW conducted a comprehensive emergency preparedness survey in late 2024, receiving over 150 responses from community members. The findings are shaping new strategies, including the distribution of 100 emergency preparedness “Go-Bags” this spring. These bags will contain essential items such as battery-operated radios with flashlights and chargers, blankets, batteries, first aid kits, water purification tablets, hand sanitizer, and secure document bags. Additionally, AFW has created an Emergency Preparedness Guide to help residents respond confidently in crisis situations.
Following severe storms in December 2023 and April 2024, Windham officials recognized the urgent need to improve emergency preparedness, particularly for older adults vulnerable to prolonged power outages. Through its participation in the Community Connections (CC) project, AFW has taken proactive steps to address these concerns.
Led by Age-Friendly Coordinator and Community Connector Erica Bell-Watkins, the initiative has successfully brought together key town departments—including Police, Fire, and Communications—to develop a more age-friendly and resource-conscious emergency response plan.
As part of this effort, AFW conducted a comprehensive emergency preparedness survey in late 2024, receiving over 150 responses from community members. The findings are shaping new strategies, including the distribution of 100 emergency preparedness “Go-Bags” this spring. These bags will contain essential items such as battery-operated radios with flashlights and chargers, blankets, batteries, first aid kits, water purification tablets, hand sanitizer, and secure document bags. Additionally, AFW has created an Emergency Preparedness Guide to help residents respond confidently in crisis situations.
Expanding Services and Strengthening Partnerships
Beyond emergency preparedness, Windham has leveraged the CC project to expand key community services, including:
● Increased Transportation Access: In 2024, Windham’s transportation service provided over 200 rides to 60 clients for medical appointments and social activities. AFW is now working to double ridership and ensure more residents can access reliable transportation.
● Bridging the Digital Divide: In partnership with the Windham Public Library and the National Digital Equity Center, AFW launched Techno Wednesdays, a series of digital literacy workshops covering cyber fraud prevention, telehealth navigation, email basics, and device assistance.
● Community Meals and Educational Programs: The Nourish Your Body and Mind series offers opportunities for residents to gather, learn, and connect. Past sessions have covered topics such as housing solutions, winter preparedness, and local resources, with support from organizations like the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, AARP, and Maine Housing.
Boosting Community Awareness and Future Growth
One of the biggest successes of the CC project has been expanding community awareness of AFW’s programs. Bell-Watkins has focused on outreach and collaboration, ensuring that residents are well-informed about available services. “Since launching the Community Connections pilot in September, I’ve been able to dedicate more time to outreach and building partnerships,” said Bell-Watkins. “As a result, more people know about AFW’s programs and resources, and that’s a huge step forward.”
Looking ahead, Windham is committed to securing long-term funding for these critical programs. A key milestone in this effort was Bell-Watkins’ appointment to the Ad Hoc Middle School Repurposing Committee, highlighting the town’s recognition of the importance of age-friendly services. Additionally, the Community Connect pilot will continue to financially support the position in partnership with the town, ensuring that Windham’s efforts to foster a more connected and resilient community will continue well into the future.
For more information about Age-Friendly Windham and upcoming initiatives, visit www.agefriendlywindham.org or contact Erica Bell-Watkins at 207-892-4649. <
Beyond emergency preparedness, Windham has leveraged the CC project to expand key community services, including:
● Increased Transportation Access: In 2024, Windham’s transportation service provided over 200 rides to 60 clients for medical appointments and social activities. AFW is now working to double ridership and ensure more residents can access reliable transportation.
● Bridging the Digital Divide: In partnership with the Windham Public Library and the National Digital Equity Center, AFW launched Techno Wednesdays, a series of digital literacy workshops covering cyber fraud prevention, telehealth navigation, email basics, and device assistance.
● Community Meals and Educational Programs: The Nourish Your Body and Mind series offers opportunities for residents to gather, learn, and connect. Past sessions have covered topics such as housing solutions, winter preparedness, and local resources, with support from organizations like the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, AARP, and Maine Housing.
Boosting Community Awareness and Future Growth
One of the biggest successes of the CC project has been expanding community awareness of AFW’s programs. Bell-Watkins has focused on outreach and collaboration, ensuring that residents are well-informed about available services. “Since launching the Community Connections pilot in September, I’ve been able to dedicate more time to outreach and building partnerships,” said Bell-Watkins. “As a result, more people know about AFW’s programs and resources, and that’s a huge step forward.”
Looking ahead, Windham is committed to securing long-term funding for these critical programs. A key milestone in this effort was Bell-Watkins’ appointment to the Ad Hoc Middle School Repurposing Committee, highlighting the town’s recognition of the importance of age-friendly services. Additionally, the Community Connect pilot will continue to financially support the position in partnership with the town, ensuring that Windham’s efforts to foster a more connected and resilient community will continue well into the future.
For more information about Age-Friendly Windham and upcoming initiatives, visit www.agefriendlywindham.org or contact Erica Bell-Watkins at 207-892-4649. <
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