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

 

Categories: Neighborhood News - Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gifts Galore at Within Reach in Long Grove

Written by on May 5, 2011 · Leave a Comment

Unique Gifts and Friendly Atmosphere at Within Reach

What fun I had yesterday when I popped by Within Reach in Long Grove! My plan was to make a quick stop to purchase a onesie for my first grandchild (it’s a boy!) who will arrive in June. I ended up staying almost an hour looking at all the beautiful, unique items that owner, Marian, has on display. Gifts for baby, Mom, girlfriends and things for yourself and your home can be found at Within Reach.

Marian has done an artful job of displaying items in her store. There are unique, adorable baby gifts arranged pleasingly in several areas. From soft, cuddly blankets to organic booties, you’re sure to find the perfect baby gift. Soft goods not what you’re looking for? Choose from a vast array of photo frames and cute wall hangings for yourself or a gift.

I loved the selection of really stylin’ handbags. What girl doesn’t love a new purse? Within Reach also carries Willow Tree Angels and a line of sweet greeting cards. Home décor items that suit different styles can be found here. I found many items that will be perfect for my clients as real estate closing gifts. There’s so much to offer in this store that you’ll just have to stop by several times to see everything!

What really warmed my heart is the owner herself – Marian Ward. She’s delightful, fun and helpful. She remembers her customers. She recalled my friend who had stopped by to purchase a gift for my daughter’s baby shower and even had a cute story to tell about it. It showed how much she really appreciates her customers. She made me feel welcome and valued. That’s how I treat my clients and I really appreciate it when business owners convey that you are special and important.

Within Reach is located at 302 Old McHenry Road in Long Grove. Stop by, say “hi” to Marian, and tell her Terry sent you!

Categories: Local Life - Tags: , , , , , ,