Long Grove Apple Haus Closing is a Heartbreak

Written by on January 26, 2012 · Leave a Comment

 Let Long Grove Apple Haus Closing Be a Wake-up Call!

Last fall when the Farmside Country Store and Winery in Long Grove closed, I was surprised. It had always been there. A sweet store sitting high on the corner of Old McHenry and Robert Parker Coffin Roads, it has been there in some form since 1869. Sure, the building is still there but it sadly stands empty. When I read the news that the Long Grove Apple Haus closed, I was shocked.

Having lived in Long Grove for over 25 years, I have seen stores come and go. But Farmside and the Apple Haus? These two stores were cornerstones of the village. Many a cider donut has been eaten in our house, brought to friends’ homes and to Coldwell Banker events. Our daughter Kristin rode her bike or walked to her first job at the Apple Haus. I’ve talked with others over the past few days and the sentiment seems to be the same: We haven’t just lost stores, we’ve lost a part of our community.

As a community we need to take action. We can’t just wait for the next small business to close and lament its passing. There are things that we can do right now and the very first is to shop at those businesses. I know that it’s sometimes easier to purchase a greeting card at the grocery store but I promise you that it’s not as much fun as shopping at Diane’s Hallmark in Lake Zurich. The women there are helpful and fun. It’s probably more convenient to run to the mall but have you been to Within Reach in Long Grove for a gift? You’ll be delighted by the beautifully arranged displays of unique items.

Next, tell everyone about your experiences at these establishments. When you eat at Enzo and Lucia’s, D&J Bistro or any of our local restaurants, let your friends know how great the food is. Tell everyone you know about the fine products and experiences at our locally owned businesses. Visit yelp.com and Yelp about it!

Adorable Baby Items at Within Reach

I’m committing to blog about at least one small business in the Lake Zurich area communities each week. If you know of one that you’d like to have featured, contact me. After you’ve read my blog posts, share them on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites. Together we can get the word out and help our local business owners prosper.

Friendly Faces at Diane's Hallmark

 

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Diane’s Hallmark in Lake Zurich

Written by on May 5, 2010 · 2 Comments

Shop at Diane’s Hallmark in Lake Zurich for Mother’s Day!

When you walk in to Diane’s Hallmark in Lake Zurich, you can expect warm smiles and a friendly greeting. I had the pleasure of meeting Diane, Linda and Donna. All were delightful and extremely helpful. Thanks, Diane and Donna for allowing me to share your smiling faces with my readers. Thanks, also, to the customers who waited patiently while I took the photos!

In addition to Hallmark cards, Diane’s offers eye-popping displays of gift items for occasions like Mother’s Day, graduations and First Communions.  As an avid gardener, I was especially attracted to the garden section. (Kids, are you reading this?!) I showed restraint and didn’t make a purchase for myself but did indulge in a few really cute gifts. I also entertained myself for about 15 minutes in the Shoebox section. What a hoot!

I think that it’s important to support local, small businesses. By doing so we’re helping to build an strong local economy and maintain our community’s character. The owners have invested in our community and we can show our appreciation by supporting them. Yes, I could buy my cards at the grocery store. But then I’d be missing out on building relationships with people like Diane, Linda and Donna.

Diane’s Hallmark is located at the corner of Rte. 22 and Ela. (479 Ela Road). When you stop by to see them, tell them Terry sent you. Ladies, I’m sure I’ll see you soon!

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