Gift shopping is upon us, and FarmCoast New England has unwrapped a few ideas to inspire you this season. If you’ve been searching for something different a little different this year, something memorable, creative, and full of New England cheer, read on; our gift ideas might be exactly what you’re looking for…
1. CSA or FarmShare to one of our local farms
Organic enthusiasts, experimental cooks, and environmentally friendly families will love this rewarding gift that will bring fresh veggies to their table long after the holidays are through…
2. Outdoor Adventure of a lifetime
-Based out of South Dartmouth, Balloon Adventures of New Bedford offers warm rides year round. Gifting a hot air balloon ride will surely cure the winter blues!
-On the flip side Osprey Sea Kayak and Adventure gift certificates offer an exciting and grounded option for a good time.
3. Edible Gift Baskets from Milk and Honey
You tell them what kind of cheese you like, and Kathi and Gerry will whip up a festive goodie basket. With over 100 varieties of cheese, and loads of local extras like honey, olive oil, crackers, and pasta, giving a gift basket is completely satisfying for everyone involved. www.milkandhoneybazaar.com
4. The beauty of something made by hand
FarmCoast is loaded with handmade gifts, a thoughtfulness that makes holiday gift-giving not just intimate, but unforgettable…
Some of our favorite picks: Ceramics at Salt Marsh Pottery, Charlie Barmonde, Gustin Ceramics, and Roseberry-Winn; Jewelry like one-of-a-kind wire earrings by Susan Freda, or colorful cocktail rings by Tiffany Peay. Silk and felt scarves from Gallery4, hand-printed bags and accessories from Nankeen, and luxurious lotions from Flora!
5. Coffee of the Month Club at Coastal Roasters.
Two fragrant bags of fair-trade and organic coffee will arrive on their doorstep every month, a precious gift for all five senses. To find out more visit www.coastalroasters.com.
6. A relaxing winter getaway…or at least the makings of one
Package up a dinner gift certificate and a stay at one of our cozy b&bs!
7. JonnyCakes, Pancakes, and Syrup!
Gray’s Grist Mill is a historic New England must-see for visitors. But if you can’t get to the mill, they can still wrap up some of this local goodness for you with belly-warming gifts starting at just $15. www.graysgristmill.com.
8. Partner’s Village Store gifts from A to Z
Last Saturday Partners’ Open House featured autographed books, alpacas, chocolate tasting, and silhouette portraits. Known for unique and quality gifts, they carry everything from cookbooks and kids books to candles and kitchenware. There’s never a dull moment or present at this popular gift shop. www.partnersvillagestore.com
9. Wine Club Membership at Westport Rivers
A bottle of wine never fails, but pair it with a Wine Club Membership and your gift just got a little merrier.
10. Weave your Own
If you’ve always wanted to make your own scarf for someone special around the holidays, there’s never been a better time or place. Amy Lund Handweaver offers no-experience necessary weaving instruction so you can offer up (wearable) handmade gifts. Lessons are offered throughout the year, and also make a great gift.
If you have a favorite gift idea to share with our readers, something we might have missed, comment below, we’d love to hear from you!
Crackling hot breakfast, breath-taking water views, and rolling farmland as far as the eye can see… this is what travelers looking for a quiet get-away might call heaven, and what the inns along the FarmCoast call home. Tucked away amongst the lush forest-laden land of Tiverton, Little Compton, Westport, and Dartmouth are a variety of accommodations to host you during your visit to the area. Some are old, some are new, and all have something unique to offer. From large-scale historic elegance to small home-style rooms, peaceful lodging on the FarmCoast humbly awaits you. Beauty and solitude are among the many reasons to find one of these charming establishments, and hunker down for a relaxing stay.
The Henley House- Dartmouth
Derrick and Margret Jones from Oxfordshire, England brought a little of their English heritage to the FarmCoast when they decided to re-open The Henley House in South Dartmouth nine years ago. “We are a little oasis here,” says Margret, even though they sit steps away from the busy streets of Padanaram Village, known for history, shops, and views of the Apponagansett Bay. The house fits well alongside this seaside colonial village with remnants of old area houses, and pieces of “The Wanderer,” (the last known Whaling Ship) built into the walls. Outside, walkable gardens adorn the landscape, reflecting the gentle marriage of the home’s English and New England roots. The three guest rooms have private baths and are accompanied by a delightful homemade hot breakfast such as quiche or crepes each morning, along with fresh fruit, homemade granola and breads, coffee, and tea. The hosts are especially accommodating to guests’ special diets, and, you can rest assured, they know how to make an excellent cup of tea.
Paquachuck Inn- Westport
This 9-room, harbor-side inn overflows with area history and charisma. Popular, and predominantly positioned at the far end of Westport Point, The Paquachuck Inn is an authentic sailor’s lodge, a historic building that once a welcomed weary travelers, and now serves as a respite for guests from around New England. Each room grants a gorgeous view of the harbor, and sunny, large common rooms give a warm sense of home. The Paquachuck is minutes to Horseneck Beach and The Back Eddy, and also has a private dock for fishing.
The Edith Pearl- Little Compton
An established residence on the side of West Main Rd. in Little Compton, The Edith Pearl is central to all points on the FarmCoast and most importantly, it’s dog friendly. After all, dogs love free open space just as much as we do, and there’s plenty of that on the FarmCoast. The colonial home itself is surrounded by 200 acres of farmland. 3 comfortable guest rooms are lovingly cared for by Deborah LeLevier, and amenities including a guest-raved-about hot breakfast, wireless internet, and all the accouterments of your own home (beach chairs, books to read, and a pet if you didn’t bring yours) are on hand. The Edith Pearl was awarded Yankee Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for the Best of New England in 2010.
The Stone House- LittleCompton
Regal and rural, The Stone House sits atop a Gastby-esque estate overlooking a gorgeous and private view of Round Pond. The house was originally built as a private residence in 1854 and re-opened in 2009 after renovations were completed to reflect modern design and efficiency. This is the largest and most luxurious accommodation along the FarmCoast boasting designer bathrooms, i-pod docks in each room, organic linens, and an onsite spa. The main house has 9 rooms and their “Wood Barn” has an additional 3 suites. The Stone House is the perfect size, and location, for hosting wedding parties, and family reunions.
Ferolbink Bed and Breakfast- Tiverton
Settled out in the country on the beautiful acres of Ferolbink Farm sits the old farm house decidedly planted right where it belongs. It’s a family-run establishment with a wrap around front porch where you can, if you’d like, sit in a rocking chair, close your eyes, and be transported to a simpler time. If you’re looking for a little more adventure, take a bike ride to Four Corners or short drive to one of the nearby shopping villages along the FarmCoast. The farm is fully operational and supplies a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables for their breakfast each morning.
Wherever you end up, we hope you enjoy your stay! Be sure to let us know your favorite Bed and Breakfast experience, and please visit FarmCoast on Flicker for more images of FarmCoast lodging.
Walking into Peckham’s Greenhouse is a little like walking into The Secret Garden. Rows of beautiful and enchanting plants of all varieties grace the walkways and garden stands of the extensive indoor/outdoor space, stretching farther then you’d ever expect from the quiet blue front door. Vibrant, warm florals and deep, luscious greens create a kaleidoscopic show room fit for local browsing or more occasion-specific arrangement hunting, while gentle water fountains lull shoppers with tranquil sound of a gardener’s bliss. “If I can get just get people to walk in, they always come back,” says Rick Peckham, friendly owner of Peckham’s and growing expert.
Rick is the 5th generation to operate Peckham’s, bringing a lifetime of growing know-how. Over one hundred years, the greenhouse has steadily evolved into an oasis of gorgeously green herbs, annuals, perennials, seasonal shrubs, hanging plants, and growing accessories. Rick does such a meticulous job keeping up with his greenery, that Peckham’s has also become a popular destination for school field trips, and community events, not to mention gardening services. Peckham’s sharpens tools, rejuvenates sad and sulking plants, and even handles custom arrangements and deliveries. A true family-run business.
They’re open for the season through December 21st, and chalk full of fantastic plants to spruce up your home, office, or classroom and fresh herbs to liven the last of our late summer dinners. Peckham’s is most surely one of those places to keep on your weekend go-to list…and your Holiday Shopping list, and your Best-Plant-Shopping-in-RI list, and of course, your Things-I-love-about-FarmCoast list.
This season, make sure you take the chance to wander through the Little Compton greenhouse that’s colorfully unforgettable.
Charlie Barmonde was recently named the best potter in Rhode Island by RI Monthly, an unexpected but welcomed honor to the young artist and Little Compton resident, who has greeted his artistic life with humble ambition. 35-year-old Barmonde describes his work as a “gratifying, intellectual as well as physical exercise,” but more than that, ceramics for Charlie is a full-time job. He works in his own studio in Little Compton drawing on his passion and knowledge of a life by the sea. “I spent my life sailing…I have a strong connection to the ocean,” he says. His pieces range from functional dining-ware to sculptural works of marine-inspired art.
Charlie moved from Long Island at the age of 16 and followed a meandering academic path involving a mix of ceramics and art history. He traveled the country honing his skills, and serving other respected potters through various jobs and apprenticeships. Charlie also spent time as a gallery owner for an arts collaborative in New Bedford along with other local artists. Now, with his roots well planted in RI, Charlie’s recent years have been spent prioritizing his family life and evolving ceramic work in his private studio.
Of all artistic works, Charlie says, ceramics provide the most direct connection between the artist and consumer. Only ceramics allow you to see, and actually feel the hands of the maker, transforming buying a mug or bowl into a truly intimate experience. This sensuous and tactile nature of the craft is what drew Charlie in from the beginning, guiding his functional and gorgeous line of pottery. His work has grown to include conceptual sculptural pieces that provide a vessel for expressing his love of the nautical world. Charlie aims to provide affordable handmade art, and hopes to extend his line to be even more accessible in the future, so that everyone can appreciate art easily, and often.
Photo Credit: ApartmentTherapy.com
Charlie is a proud member of the region, bursting with varied seasoned artists who’ve all discovered a similar affinity for the southcoast. Unlike other larger art districts, the backroads of the southcoast seem to inspire an older, more assured talent. The SCA, or SouthCoast Artists is a non-profit organization that has recognized the value of this area’s multitude of artists, and has gone through lengths to connect them together as part of a larger group, providing the public with ample opportunities for art-appreciation. This weekend is the second round of SCA “Studio Tours” this summer where Charlie, along with many other artists, will be open and throwing pottery, and hopefully selling a few pieces. You can visit him this weekend or anytime by appointment. And then you can congratulate this inspiring artist and well-deserved recipient of the title, best.
We all scream for local ice cream! While sitting on the couch with a pint of your favorite Ben and Jerry’s can be entirely satisfying, summer calls for something a little more stately. This summer, FarmCoast invites you to take a tour of our ice cream stands, road trip style, and the local businesses that make this delightful summer treat a beloved gathering for friends, family, and strangers alike. The shops along the rural south coast boast awarding-winning, homegrown flavors and charming atmospheres, not to mention smiling small-town service. If standing in line for a sugar cone is your idea of an evening adventure, the four towns of FarmCoast welcome you to experience their unique, drippy summer treats…
We start the tour in Dartmouth, where Salvador’s Ice Cream has been serving up cones since the 1930′s. Yep, serving ice cream for over 70 years will make you an expert. Dartmouth locals recognize the giant milk urn-turned-small-business from miles away, and travel to hangout with the food, ice cream, and wooden game tables. Owned and operated by Len and Beth Gauvin and family since 2005, the building has a long history of ownership. Len and Beth restored the building to it’s original black and white appearance, and were meticulous enough to win a restoration award for their efforts. They now serve more than just ice cream (visitors love the lobster rolls and hearty burgers) but strive to keep it simple. “This place has a lot of history,” says Len, “people have been bringing their children and grandchildren here for years.” Salvador’s is located next to Cornell Farm, so you can watch baby sheep graze against a picturesque landscape while you climb the trees, play checkers, or enjoy a cone on one of the picnic benches. Salvador’s is entirely family friendly.
Next, make your way to Handy Hill Creamery in Westport where locals swarm (usually from Horseneck Beach) for salty snacks like salt water taffy and oyster bellies. “People are usually lined up all the way to the street,“ says a Handy Hill employee. Handy Hill is family owned and operated but employs dozens of happy faces for the summer to accommodate their enormous popularity. Each summer they feature specials, like this summer’s $1 soft serve cones. Handy Hill is on Hixbridge Road, a quick stop off the highway with tons of space to park, and plenty of room for a large crowd. Pets welcome!
Conveniently located across the street from Osprey Sea Kayak Adventures you’ll find the Head Town Landing Country Store, awaiting those customers seeking a refreshing break from the heat of the river. “We opened in the summer of 2008,” say local owners Rory and Kathy Couturier who quickly established a loyal and local customer following. The small shoppe features isles of mom-and-pop style service, proudly offering 40 flavors of Bliss ice cream served year round, Del’s Lemonade, and the town’s largest selection of penny candy. After a long day of paddling, they also provide satisfying pick-me-ups like Coney Island hot dogs, Green Mountain Coffee, and fresh baked pastries made right in store. Accessible by land or water, they invite you to sit and relax by the beautiful Westport River.
Next stop, Margaret’s Corner Cones in Little Compton. On the corner of Willow Ave. and Simmons Road this little shop is a perfect destination or pit-stop for bikers roaming the hills and backroads of the FarmCoast. The shop features a wide assortment of unique flavors including “Graham Central Station,” and “Purple Cow.” Margaret’s is a rare, peaceful and quiet outdoor place to relax while enjoying an ice cream. If you do make the stop, be sure to try the Black Rasberry Yogurt, otherwise known as a happiness on a cone.
Our last stop is in Tiverton Four Corners at Gray’s Homemade Ice Cream, now in the Rhode Island Monthly‘s Hall of Fame for Best Ice Cream. Not only has it been voted the best year after year, it’s one of the oldest too. For 88 years, the ice cream at Gray’s has been handmade in Tiverton, now featuring over 40 flavors. The historic establishment has been in the hands of Marilyn Bettencourt since 1981 but has never lost its authentic mom-and-pop charm. Behind the outdoor ice cream stand, Gray’s has a small general store where you can get everything you need to make a perfect sundae at home, including containers of Gray’s homemade flavors. We recommend one of the original four: Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee, or Strawberry. Marilyn stays open 365 days a year.
After a long, hot day at the beach, or wherever your days take you, stop by one, or all, of our ice cream stands and enjoy some local flavor. After all, summer’s never complete without a melty cone and beautiful sunset. FarmCoast is proud to be a part of this timeless New England tradition, eating (good) ice cream.
It was a day for the ladies…and gentlemen, but mostly just the girls. A tasting/signing/presentation took place last Thursday at Young’s Family Farm in Little Compton where a delightful group of women gathered around fresh cut flowers, autographed cookbooks, sweet iced tea, and a succulent lunch buffet…not to mention a few good laughs.
Organized by Karla Young, the summer event took place under the Young’s greenhouse and kicked off with a jovial floral arranging presentation by Kathy Melven. Kathy is a talented English florist who specializes in quick and easy but very elegant tricks, like how to use scotch tape to create a floating floral arrangement. Between her good humor and animated demonstrations, Kathy wowed the audience with over a dozen creative arrangement techniques to suit several occasions, and best of all, saved one bouquet for each guest. Kathy prepares arrangements for special events and custom orders at Youngs using the sophisticated selection of flowers grown on the farm.
Almost as enchanting at the flowers themselves, was the story of how Kathy and Karla met, by chance, underneath a tree where the Youngs used to sell out of a wagon. That’s where the farm started after all. “It started with one wagon, then two, then three,” said Karla’s Mother-in-Law, “and here we are.” The 180 acre land was bought by Tyler and Karla Young in 1997, and by 2007 the couple had a fully operating retail/farm stand now known for its colorful bounty. The stand has everything from seasonal produce to beautiful flowers and herbs to cooking essentials.
Also on the scene that day were authors Elaine and Karin Tammi who are all too familiar with starting something from scratch. While guests flipped through the pages of their beautifully photographed cookbook, Scallops A New England Guide the mother and daughter team shared the story of their 15-year-in-the-making book and the friends, colleagues, and celebrities who inspired them most. “It took all of New England to write this cookbook,” said Elaine, as well as encouragement from Julia Child who became a personal aquantaince and mentor for the pair. Julia urged them to produce what they had set out to accomplish: an independent, very authentic and reverent assortment of recipes. Both Elaine and Karin were on hand to sign and answer questions while the ladies enjoyed lunch made from Young’s fresh produce, including a mouth watering recipe of fresh grilled local scallops and nectarines with a mango glaze, prepared in person by members of Young’s.
To close the afternoon, guests at Young’s savored a homemade sweet dessert while bending an ear to Dorrie Brownell, as she told the story of her grandfather and his rose business, “Brownell Roses.” An exceptional hobbyist gardener, Dorrie’s grandfather developed a unique and beautiful crop of hybrid roses in the early 1900s that have survived thanks to the hands of his successors, including Dorrie who is the last family member to breed the gorgeous varieties. Dorrie showed guests how to propagate the roses, a two year project start to finish. Rest assured, the results are well worth the wait. Dorrie is passing the varieties on to Karla and Young’s Family Farm because the richness of their soil, and because she says she knows they’ll be in good hands.
Drifting in and out of rural counties along the New England Coast it’s not hard to find fresh strawberries and tomoatoes in the summer months. Farm stands, ready by the dozens, are something to be grateful for. But it’s not often you find one that offers you a little something more…Young’s Family Farm has this unique charm. Stop in and smell the roses.
