Our great state of Connecticut may only span 110 miles from east to west and 70 miles from north to south but we are a state packed with small neighborhood shops that add vibrance to our communities. Shopping small helps create jobs and give back to the communities that we love. When you shop small you are supporting someone who is paying for their children to go to college and you are helping create bright futures. If you’re looking to shop small check out some of these awesome businesses!

Hartford Prints

Located on Pratt Street, Hartford’s cutest street, this homegrown shop creates letterpress stationary and urban streetwear. What I love about this little shop is that most things are Connecticut themed! If you’re proud of your state you should stop in to shop for greeting cards, apparel, Connecticut themed glassware and custom prints!

Heart of the Country

Is located on Main Street in historic Old Wethersfield. Shop owner Dana is incredibly helpful especially when it comes to finding gifts for others. This small shop offers a large selection of Vera Bradley items from bags to backpacks, lunch boxes, and accessories as well as homemade items like wooden cutting boards and jewelry. You won’t be able to leave this shop without picking up something special!

Marie’s Jewelers

A family owned and operated shop since 1983, this jewelry shop has much to offer! Located on East Main Street in Waterbury, they carry well-known brands in stock like Alex and Ani, Lucca and Dani, and The Giving Keys but also offer a number of options for custom made pieces. Marie herself designs many one-of-a-kind pieces for the store but is also more than happy to custom make a piece just for you!

Dazzle Boutique

Just down the street from Marie’s Jewelers in Waterbury is Dazzle Boutique! One of Connecticut’s top prom and pageant boutiques, Dazzle has a wide selection of dresses for little princesses to prom goers, to pageant competitors of all ages. Shop owner Laurye takes pride in making sure that everyone that comes in feels confident and beautiful in their dress selection. In addition to dresses, Laurye has a great selection of shoes, jewelry, and makeup to complete the look! A one stop shop if you ask me!

Trinket Shoppe

Located in the quite corner of Connecticut in Danielson this shop offers everything you can imagine! From nurses scrubs, to prom and wedding dresses, tuxedos, casual wear, jewelry, and Life Is Good brand, they have got you covered.