Business Spotlight: LocalCentric

One of the top places to purchase a unique gift in the Lakes Region of Maine is full of handmade, locally sourced items and offers an amazing selection of Maine-themed products you can only find there. LocalCentric in Gray continues to impress customers with its range of quality items produced by local artists and companies.

Mother-and-son team Rhee Michelle-Smith and Travis
Connolly co-own LocalCentric, an eclectic market and
gift shop in Gray. The shop is filled with handcrafted items
and a curated selection of snacks and beverages you
won't find just anywhere. COURTESY PHOTO  

LocalCentric, located at 4B Brown St. in Gray, has been around for the past eight years but is now owned and operated by the mother-and-son team of Rhee Michelle-Smith and Travis Connolly. Michelle-Smith has served as the store’s manager for the past three and a half years under the previous owners and became LocalCentric’s owner in April.

“The previous owners Jen and Tom wanted to focus on their other business Human Nature and gave us the opportunity to purchase the store and continue to provide local artisans with the opportunity to showcase their work,” Rhee said.

Along with her son, Rhee has embarked on a mission to reorganize operations and has intensified efforts to promote the business through social media campaigns and with store consignors.

“The best thing about what we do at LocalCentric is that we support local artisans and provide them with an outlet for their products,” Rhee said. “Although we are a retail shop, we attract visitors to Maine by featuring locally produced and marketed Maine themed products that you can only get here in Maine.”

The store features many local artisans and entrepreneurs, showcasing and selling their candles, home decor items, art, clothing, jewelry on a daily basis, and also offers a vast selection of locally made snacks, treats, craft beer, wine and mead. Tailor and notary services are available and LocalCentric also has a consignor that sells live plants and flowers and consignors that create paper and wooden flowers.

“Our business is quite unique in the Gray/New Gloucester area,” Rhee said. “We are like a brick-and-mortar craft fair in a store with snacks, treats, craft beer, unique Winterport wines and The Fat Friar’s Mead from Newcastle, all made in Maine. I think it’s safe to say we are the only store around here that offers mead.”

First-time visitors to LocalCentric have expressed to Rhee that before walking in, they didn’t know quite what to expect, but were pleasantly surprised with what they found there.

“We offer competitive pricing throughout the store,” Rhee said. We are family owned, completely local, with convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere.”

You’ll find beer, cider and kombucha from 11 different Maine breweries, Crossroads coffee, scones, biscotti and buckwheat snacks, Maine crisps, Jack’s Crackers, Coastal Maine Popcorn and candy and chocolates from four Maine candymakers.

According to Rhee, the funniest feedback they have received so far is “this is the best smelling beer store.”

Reviews posted online are nothing short of spectacular.

“This shop is so cute! There’s so many different types of local goods for sale, from art and jewelry, to craft beer and homemade soap. I enjoyed poking around and found some lovely gifts.” ~ Elizabeth Stroka

“Hidden gem! This place is great. I was able to get many unique gifts here, including beer that is hard to find in this area! My husband and friends were so happy. It is definitely worth a stop if you are in the area! I have only been here once, but it looks like they have new inventory often.” – Anna K. Biddle

“Adorable shop. Music entertainment outside was outstanding.” ~ Valerie Nahorney

Hours for LocalCentric are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

For more details about LocalCentric, call 207-657-4445 or visit their website at localcentric.me. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram under LocalCentric. <

Business Spotlight: On The Docks

Whether you’ve lived in the Lakes Region for your entire life, here for the summer, or just passing through town, visiting a new store called On The Docks is a must.

Jaime Anderson welcomes shoppers to On The Docks in
Windham for all your gift giving and home decor needs. 
COURYESY PHOTO

The store offers quality customer service, personalized orders, and a relaxed shopping atmosphere from its convenient location at 889 Roosevelt Trail, Suite 1, in North Windham.

On The Docks owner Jaime Anderson has assembled a collection of unique gifts, local apparel, Maine goods, and home decor with the Lakes Region in mind. “The inspiration behind our store stems from a profound appreciation for the tranquil beauty of the Lakes Region,” Anderson said. “Our mission was to curate a collection of offerings that cater to our community's needs, providing them with gifts and home decor that capture the essence of serenity and tranquility. Imagine the peacefulness of sitting on a dock, gazing out at the shimmering waters of Sebago Lake, Little Sebago Lake, Long Lake, or Panther Pond. That is the feeling we aim to evoke with our carefully chosen items, a sense of calm and contentment.”

Anderson that vision extends beyond the lake shores.

“We want to transform your home into a sanctuary, regardless of its location,” she said. “That is where our customization comes in. What is your sanctuary? Is it by the pool, amidst the trees, at a cozy campfire, or in the garden? Whatever it may be, we can tailor our offerings with drinkware, signs, accents and more.”

They are the area's exclusive carrier of Built-to-Last Adirondack chairs which are the best in the industry and backed by a 25 year warranty. They are made in America using 100% recycled materials and come in a variety of styles and colors to fit perfectly with any home style. Whether on the water, front porch or circled around a backyard fire these chairs and accent tables will give the added comfort perfect to accent your outdoor living.

With reasonable pricing, On the Docks is happy to help any customer with their home decor or gift-giving needs, even outside the geographic area of the Lakes Region, Anderson says.

“We can custom order any lake and create personalized signs based on customer need,” she said. “We offer Maine merchandise, gifts, candles, faux floral, and many other things.”

Originally from Windham, Anderson owned a gift shop 15 years ago in a small town in rural Pennsylvania.

“I loved everything about owning and running a gift shop. We had to close due to some family health issues and it has been a dream of mine to open a store again,” she said. “I moved home to Maine about three years ago and have been dreaming, planning, and hoping to open a gift shop in my hometown of Windham. In November 2023, all the pieces fell into place, and we were given the keys to our amazing location.

The store includes a craft area where local artists can offer instruction and classes and Anderson said she hopes the location becomes a new focal point for local vendors in Windham.

Since opening its doors earlier this year, word is getting out about how friendly everyone is at On The Docks, their fantastic selection of unique gifts and lake-related items, their knowledge and expertise and exceptional customers service.

“We want everyone to know we are here and what we have to offer,” Anderson said. “We do not sell docks or dock supplies, but we do encourage everyone to stop in and see what’s available. We believe you will like what you find here.”

For those who have visited, their social media reviews of On The Docks are fantastic.

“We have received amazing feedback from our customers,” Anderson said. “We have five 5-star reviews on Google and have had many people say similar things in person at the store.”

Some of those comments include:

“On The Docks has really great local stuff. Not the typical selection of home decor. Much of it is designed for Sebago Lakes area. They also have a great craft room. Looking forward to shopping here for gifts, definitely some unique stuff here. Looking to coming back again.”

“The owners were amazing to deal with. On the Docks is a beautiful store! We will definitely visit again soon! Love my table and chairs!!!”

On The Docks is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info call 207-332-5231 or go to their website at: onthedocksme.com. Also follow them on Facebook under On The Docks Gifts and Home Decor to see new items being added all the time and to follow their DIY class events. <

Business Spotlight: Hometown Furnishing Co.

One of the best kept secrets in the Lakes Region is Hometown Furnishing Co., a multi-vendor furniture and decor shop in Standish that specializes in painted furniture along with farmhouse, vintage, local and handmade items.

Hometown Furnishing Co. is located in a beautiful historic
building at 1 Ossipee Trail East at the intersection of 
Routes 35 and 25 in Standish. SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Situated in a 7,000-square-foot historic building in the center of Standish at 1 Ossipee Trail East, Hometown Furnishing Co. is preparing to host a Holiday Open House on Saturday, Nov. 12 and on Sunday, Nov. 13 to showcase the abundance of gifts and treasures that can be found inside the building.

“It’s typically one of our busiest weekends for holiday shopping,” said Eric Rollins of Hometown Furnishing Co. “We have 50 different vendors and prices range from $2 Christmas ornaments all the way up to $1,600 farm tables.”

Rollins said that Hometown Furnishing Co. also updates, paints and revitalizes furniture that customers bring in, along with building custom tables and barn doors. A selection of vintage restored furniture can also be purchased there.

“We also carry a line of Farmhouse furniture paint for customers that would like to do it themselves,” he said.

Visiting the store is an interior decorator’s dream, as everything needed to redesign either a room or an entire home can be found at Hometown Furnishing Co. There are accent items, chairs, dressers and tables available and it’s exactly what you may be looking for either to freshen up an existing look or to recreate something new.

It's simply a great place to find antiques, arts and crafts, farmhouse furniture all locally sourced and wonderfully displayed. There is a very friendly atmosphere and vibe about Hometown Furnishing Co. and it’s a go-to location to find some exceptional creations by local artists.

The building itself that Hometown Furnishing Co. is located in offers 18 rooms with three floors of merchandise to peruse and an elevator to get up and down. It formerly was owned by the Thompson Family for more than 200 years and was one of the most historic buildings in Standish.

Hometown Furnishing Co. opened at the site in April 2021 and has four employees.

“The misconception is that people think we just have furniture or antiques, but we truly have something for everyone,” Rollins said. “We’re involved in the community, keep up with trends and listen to our customers.”

As part of a commitment to community involvement, Hometown Furnishing Co, offers Maker’s Markets in-season which feature local craftsmen and artists set up to sell their handcrafted and locally produced goods.

Social media reviews posted online for Hometown Furnishing Co. are nothing less than outstanding.

"My favorite, local shop! Such a happy, warm, welcoming space, and the vendors do a fantastic job of curating so many beautiful items for your home.” Jen Cianchette Gironda

“My new favorite place in Standish. I was in heaven as soon as I walked in. Great coffee and so many unique finds on three floors. The staff were so friendly and helpful. Highly recommend.” Kristen Blanchard

“Love the custom window shelf I ordered. It’s the perfect spot to memorialize our recently departed best girl! Scheduling a pickup time was easy and we spent some time exploring every room. Such an eclectic mix of treasures! Will definitely be going back!” Terina Dobson

Rollins said that the Holiday Open House is an annual event, and everyone is welcome to stop in to see what treasures are available for gift giving this year at Hometown Furnishing Co.

“Join us here at Hometown Furnishing Company for this two-day event as we welcome the holiday season with snacks, beverages, and giveaways,” Rollins said. “All our wonderful vendors will be fully stocked with new, handmade, vintage and antique holiday decor and gift giving goods. We will even have an antique sleigh or two for photo opportunities.”

Hometown Furnishing Co. is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week and custom furniture refinishing is always available.

For more information about Hometown Furnishing Co. call 207-229-0617 or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hometownfurnishingco/ <

Business Spotlight: Astoirin/Pearls Within

If you're someone who enjoys unique shopping experiences and not having to travel far for a variety of things from clever cards and tasty toothpaste to hand-crafted jewelry and gifts, then you may want to visit a new shop in Raymond. 

A combination of two businesses, Astoirin owned by Betsy Kate Paradis, and Pearls Within owned by Wendy Martin, have opened at 1288 Roosevelt Trail Unit #4 in Raymond and offer something for just about everyone in search of the perfect gift.  

“We offer a unique shopping experience that blends artisan pearl jewelry with an eclectic mix of gifts, including organic skincare, clothing, stationery, and artwork,” Martin said. “We are happy to feature many products made in the United States and specifically Maine.”

Along with a selection of gifts to be cherished and treasured, the shop also is home to a variety of weekly clubs and Sunday classes open to all.

“Starting in February we will be hosting a crafting club and an entrepreneurs’ club offered at $5 per person,” Paradis said. “Sunday classes range from $35 to $50 and include things like needle-felting, skincare and beauty, self-care, and energy work. Pearls Within offers pearl oyster openings and custom jewelry, including designing just the right pieces for special occasions such as weddings. Wendy will be happy to book pearl parties where a host can invite friends to gather and experience the excitement of opening pearl oysters and setting the pearl into jewelry. Astoirin’s photography division includes custom stationery products that feature places and things of special interest to the client.”

Betsy Paradis of Astoirin and Wendy Martin of Pearls Within
invite you to their new shop in Raymond for unique products
and workshops. COURTESY PHOTO

Paradis said that the shop’s location on Route 302 in Raymond makes it a convenient location for people traveling through the Lake Region corridor and they are happy to ship orders anywhere in the continental United States.

“Our boutique carries products and gifts typically found in larger cities, like Portland and Boston, but in a more personable and relaxed atmosphere,” she said. “Many products, specifically skincare, cosmetics, and pearl oysters make us a little bit different from the other offerings in the community.”

Because of the wide variety of items they offer, customers will always find something to consider at Astoirin and Pearls Within whether they are looking for a gift for others or something special just for themselves.

Both Paradis and Martin say they enjoy their work and the interactions they have with customers makes this shop special.

“There’s a real connection here with people that you just can’t get shopping online,” Paradis said.

Martin said helping customers choose exactly the right gift is the best part of her work at Pearls Within.

“It’s gratifying to help somebody find a special gift for their loved ones,” she said. “We are proud of our personalized service and the level of connection we find with our customers.”   

Having only been open for a few weeks, Paradis said that response to their products and shop’s environment have been extremely favorable.

“Customers are surprised to see all the items artfully displayed in our cozy shop,” she said. “While our combined shop has only been open since the first of the year, Astoirin has been in business since 2019 and Pearls Within is well-known from fairs and local events since 2012.”

In Gaelic, Astoirin means “Little Treasures” and Paradis said she wants everyone to know that the shop has plenty of little gifts to please anyone for any occasion, and especially for Valentine’s Day.

With pricing on par with other independent shops in the Lakes Region, Paradis and Martin say they enjoy networking with local artisans and craftspeople and take pride in being an evolving boutique.

“New inventory continues to arrive, and our seasonal displays will feature Valentines, Easter, Bridal, and Christmas items as the time of year dictates, Paradis said. “Check in frequently to see what’s new. For the month of February, we have a special offer where purchases $50 and over, including gift certificates, come with a special gift, while supplies last.”

The shop is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Visit Astoirin online at Astoirin.com and on Facebook at Astoirin,LLC.

Pearls Within can be found online at Pearlswithin.com and on Facebook at Pearls Within.

For more information, call 207-655-6154. <

Business Spotlight: Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving

Among the oldest forms of art known to man is stone carving or turning a rock or something natural into a thing of beauty or to convey a message. And now thanks to the marvels of modern technology and the talented artistic designers at Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving, all kinds of this form of unique artwork is obtainable right here in Maine.

Owned and operated by Devin Fahie, Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving at 206 Ossippee Trail (Route 25) in Limington, the business produces some of the most captivating engraving to meet individualized specifications of property owners and the public.

Their attention-grabbing products can engrave an address or large house numbers on boulders or create an everlasting pet memorial or art for the garden. They can carve a company name onto a granite sign for a business entrance or transform a stone’s surface into carrying personal messages or images.

Whether it be a personalized wedding memento and keepsake, remembering a remarkable athletic achievement, putting names on brick pavers or a genuine and simple expression of love for a departed family member, Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving can masterfully craft a treasured work of art to fit the individual situation.

Devin Fahie, the owner of Sebago Signworks
and Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving,
joins his wife and children. He is a second-
generation signmaker and operates the 
family business in Limington.
COURTESY PHOTO

“We are local, we serve New England,” Fahie said. “When you engrave, it’s a forever impression. Our mission is to provide long lasting relationships with our customers and serve the community the best we can.”

According to Fahie, Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving is completely mobile, and their designs can be carved at the shop in Limington on smaller rocks, or they can come out and engrave larger projects at a customer’s location.

“We are happy to come to wherever you are located to meet all of your stone engraving needs,” he said. “We engrave stones, both onsite and at the shop. We can do memorials, pet memorials, veteran’s tributes, names and addresses, Mancave style.”

The graphic artists at Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving can take a customer’s basic idea and develop it into an everlasting tribute or a work of art or to simply add letters, a date or a message to an existing stone memorial. Their customed-designed, sandblasted, and etched products are stunningly detailed and are made to stand the test of time, no matter what the season or the type of weather.  

The advantages of working with Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving are multifold, including knowing that you are supporting a local, Maine-owned family business and giving an affordable and a one-of-a-kind unique gift typically not found at a big box store that will last forever.

“These make great gifts to complement a hobby, house, garden, car or motorcycle,” Fahie said. “They’re customer-designed just for you and no two are exactly alike.”

Fahie said because of recent advances in engraving technology available from Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving, rocks selected for projects do not necessarily require a perfectly flat surface.

“We will work with the surface of the stone you have,” he said. “And if you don’t have a suitable rock, we can provide rocks for you of all different sizes to suit the project.”

In business for more than 15 years, Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving is a division of Sebago Signworks of Limington, which has grown through the years to now employ a staff of seven workers.

“We are strong at design with our signage background,” Fahie said. “Starting in November, our Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving website will give you an option to design your own rock. If you envision it, we can carve it!”

For more detailed information about Sebago Stoneworks & Stone Engraving, call 207-793-4440 or visit their website at sebagostoneworks.com or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sebagostoneworks  <