Shoppes at Lafayette open for business

LAFAYETTE — Black Friday and Cyber Monday are fast approaching as is the muscle of American economy- Small Business Saturday. In existence for roughly seven years, Small Business Saturday showcases local, neighborhood businesses and encourages the patronage of these businesses especially during the upcoming holidays.
This year, the epitome of local shopping will be the rise of new stores at the revitalized Lafayette Village. Now called the Shoppes at Lafayette, the new venture by owners Lafayette Village Association, boasts 18 new shops at the pinnacle of the holiday season.
Complex manager Patty Singer is thankful for the support of the community.
“We’re striving to get the village back to its former glory and planning events that will be enjoyed and benefit the community,” Singer said.
Upcoming events will include a Christmas tree lighting on Friday Nov. 30, photos with Santa on three weekends with a Pets with Santa shoot on Dec. 8. A Pop-Up Vendor event is also upcoming. Singer is also hopeful that with the filling in of the village pond the new open center space will encourage outdoor activities and fun in warmer weather.
Tracey Williams, owner of Village Sweets, is happy to return to the village. Her shop is now larger and she was actively involved in producing homemade chocolate for the holidays. The shop Hollyberry Lane Primitives totally supports hand crafts and is an advocate of homemade products. Shop owner Missy Vendola-Brucato has gorgeous Americana and country items and candles and soaps strictly made in the USA.
The village florist Whisper and Brook will be conducting flower workshops like wreath, centerpiece and garland making.
Charm, another shop, refurbishes and renovates vintage furniture. Owner Kristen moved to the Lafayette Shoppes after having her business on Spring Street for 11 years.
Whitewater Flies, Nicola Jane, Felicia’s Boutique, Pen and Ink and a half dozen or so other shops are proud to have open their businesses in the Shoppes at Lafayette.
On Black Friday, the Shoppes will welcome Arley Farms, an indoor farmers’ market. Dec. 1 will see the opening of western wear shop Bullet Boots. Pass it Along will make the village their new home in two weeks. A new café will join the scene next March.
Manager Patty Singer gently reminds the public to visit the new shops.
“I want these shops to get all the attention they deserve.”