Merrimack Valley Magazine

Holiday Gift Guide – 2019

November 28, 2019 by Katie DeRosa

The Museum Shop at the Addison Gallery of American Art

Find the perfect holiday gift at the Museum Shop at the Addison. Offering a diverse selection of one-of-a-kind items inspired by works from our collection, the Museum Shop also features unique and beautiful housewares, ornaments, jewelry, and more by artisans from around the region. Stop by on Museum Store Sunday, December 1, and receive 25% off all merchandise!

On the campus of Phillips Academy
3 Chapel Ave. / Andover, Mass. / (978) 749-4015 / AddisonGallery.org

CoCo Collection

Treat yourself! This beautifully detailed sweater and wrap by Barcelona brand, Aldomartins are just two of the many standout pieces available at CoCo Collection this holiday season. We love to bring new designers and well-known brands together to appeal to a wide variety of ages and price points. All carefully curated for just the right look. Let our talented stylists help you find everything from the perfect party dress, to a fabulous sweater and jeans at CoCo Collection.

1 Main Street / Andover, Mass. / (978) 470-0632 / ShopCoCoCollection.com
Instagram @cococollectionboutique
Facebook @shopcococollection

Massage Envy

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – to give the gift of wellness. A Massage Envy gift card might just be the best holiday gift ever because it unwraps the benefits of total body care including massage, total body stretch, rapid tension relief, customizable facials, Microderm infusion and chemical peels. Ask us for details. Give the gift of wellness and help everyone on your list be their very best!

Methuen – 70 Pleasant Valley St. / (978) 685-1077 / MassageEnvy.com
Billerica – 199 Boston Rd. / (978) 663-3689
Nashua – 310 Daniel Webster HWY / (603) 598-4400

Merrimack Valley Magazine

Cut Santa some slack this year and give the gift of Merrimack Valley Magazine. Some people are hard to shop for, but everyone likes to know about the best places to eat, the best shows to see and the best places to shop. Merrimack Valley Magazine is a gift that lasts the whole year. It delivers fresh, original stories on local art & music, food & dining, home & garden, design, history, people and more.

Order gift subscriptions at: MVMag.net/buy-issues

Solace Wellness Center & MedSpa

Give the Gift of Solace! Prepare your skin for the harsh winter months with our HYDRO-DERMAL facial with GLOW^® technology. Water powered exfoliation and extraction allows deep penetration of bio-organic serums and masks to firm and tighten skin and make it GLOW. Until December 31, purchase the HYDRO-DERMAL facial for $95 and receive a free SOLACE Ultimate Moisturizing Cream to keep your skin hydrated this winter. Treat that special person to some “me” time at Solace.

Bio-Organic Inspired Anti-Aging Skin and Body Care
1201 Main Street / Tewksbury, Mass. / (978) 851-8600 / FoundSolace.com

Spa Nijoli and Salon

Relaxing massages and full service hair, nail and skincare all in one award winning location! When you struggle to choose the right gift for the holidays, consider giving the gift of relaxation from Spa Nijoli & Salon. Celebrating 17 years of excellent service and an impeccable staff of over 65 professionals. Purchase a holiday gift card from Merrimack Valley’s “Best Day Spa.”

116 Pleasant Valley Street / Methuen, Mass. / (978) 682-9772 / Nijoli.com

Red Antler Apothecary

Red Antler Apothecary specializes in Herbalist formulated soaps, body care, scrubs, non-harmful cleaning products and other holistic remedies! Foraged seaweed and juniper berries top a cooling peppermint and evergreen soap that smells as much like the New England winter forest as it does the rocky summer beach. Red Antler Apothecary is your shop for clean, environmentally friendly holiday giving. Choose a beautiful gift box in stores, or a monthly “Suds-scription” for the gift that keeps refreshing!

Mill No. 5 / 250 Jackson Street. / Lowell, Mass. / (978) 656-1366 / RedAntlerApothecary.com

Robert Jason Salon Beauty Bar

Brought to you by the award winning Robert Jason Salon, the Robert Jason Salon Beauty Bar offers you the finest in manicures, pedicures and makeup. Gift certificates for pampering are always available and make the BEST gift for the holidays! At Robert Jason Salon, we strive in our commitment to deliver you a safe and strictly sanitized space, and our patent-pending ventilation system helps us guarantee a clean and harmless salon environment.

96 Main Street / Andover, Mass. / (978) 470-3103 / RobertJasonSalon.com

Quiet Pleasures Jewelry

Happy Holidays to our customers, old and new! Without you, we would not be here and we thank you for your business. Visit Quiet Pleasures Jewelry to find an always changing selection of well-priced classic, contemporary or artistically funky jewelry designs and great gift items, too! These beautiful cuff bracelets will take you from one end of your day to the other. Whether shopping for others or for yourself, don’t you deserve something fabulous today?

24 Chestnut Street / Andover, Mass. / (978) 474-0390 / QuietPleasuresJewelry.com

MVM Cookbook

For more than a decade, Merrimack Valley Magazine has been the region’s premiere source of information about regional food, dining and drink, plus the people who live, work, play and make our area great. Along the way we’ve curated a great collection of personal recipes the region’s top chefs. We are publishing our first-ever cookbook featuring the very best of these recipes. The MVM Cookbook – First Edition is a great addition to your recipe library, and it makes a great gift!

Pre-order copies at: MVMag.net/cookbook

Restaurant Gift Cards

Give the gift of a great meal this holiday season by buying gift cards from the Merrimack Valley’s best restaurants! A night on the town is always a welcome gift and mvm’s restaurant partners won’t disappoint. Check out participating restaurants in our dining guide or on MVMag.net/dining

Angelina’s Italian Restaurant
Buono Bistro
Burtons Grill & Bar
Butcher Boy
Cafe Azteca
Capri Seaside Italian Grille
Chowder Factory
Cobblestones Restaurant & Bar
Copper Door
Dream Diner
Grazie Italian Restaurant at Four Oaks Country Club
Horseshoe Grille
Jocelyn’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
Lowell Burger Company
Moonstones
Orzo Trattoria
Phoenician Restaurant
Sand Trap Bar & Grill at Merrimack Valley Golf Club
Seaglass Restaurant
Seoul Kitchen
Tuscan Kitchen

2019 MVMA Winners – Milestone (Longevity in Business)

August 27, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners.

Milestone — 5 Years
Catie’s Closet
Did you know children are the largest age group living in poverty in the United States? Since 2010, Catie’s Closet has been helping these children by providing in-school resources for clothing. Schools equipped with a Catie’s Closet give students living in poverty the ability to discreetly pick and choose the clothing and basic necessities they need. Catie’s Closet also provides additional items that students need to be successful, including toiletries, shoes, backpacks, undergarments, bus passes and grocery cards.
19 School St. | Dracut, Mass.
CatiesCloset.org

Milestone — 10 Years
Chowder Factory
Nothing says New England like chowder, and this Lowell company produces some of the best in the nation. Their clam chowder, lobster bisque and seafood appetizers have won the hearts of devoted locals. Stop by and check out their new line of Herban Fresh soups.
101 Phoenix Ave. | Lowell, Mass.

Milestone — 20 Years
Borrelli’s Italian Deli
Borrelli’s is famed throughout the region for its fine Italian products. Stop in for a specialty sandwich such as the Sicilian or Neapolitan or go for a sub or club sandwich. In a rush but want a homemade meal? Borrelli’s offers lasagna, chicken parmesan, stuffed shells, shepherd’s pie and more.
322 Merrimack St. | Methuen, Mass.
BorrellisDeli.com

Milestone — 30 Years
Lazarus House
Since opening its doors as an emergency homeless shelter in 1983, Lazarus House has been breaking the cycle of poverty in the Merrimack Valley region. Their food and clothing programs assist families stretch their dollars so they can afford rent, heat and utilities. Additional services include transitional housing for individuals, families and at-risk and homeless women; a culinary arts program; and three thrift stores.
412 Hampshire St. | Lawrence, Mass.
LazarusHouse.org

Milestone — 40 Years
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley are a private nonprofit agency serving elders and disabled adults who reside in Northeast Massachusetts. Established in 1974, their mission is to support an individual’s desire to make their own decisions, secure their independence and remain living in the community safely. Elder Services Care contracts with over 70 different care providers to ensure services delivered meet a variety of individual needs.
280 Merrimack St. | Lowell, Mass.
ESMV.org

Milestone — 50 Years
Andover Bookstore
The Andover Bookstore is a gathering place for storytelling, authors, book groups and poetry readings. Authors such as Robert Pinsky, Donald Hall, Mary McGarry Morris, Jay O’Callahan, Marie Howe, David Ferry, Liz Michalski, Julia Alvarez, Tomie Depoala, Jan Brett, Brian Jacques, Lois Lowry and Andrew Dubus III do more than grace the shelves. They have also visited the store.
74 Main St. | Andover, Mass.
HugeBookstores.com/Andover

Milestone — 75 Years
Horseshoe Grille
Readers of this publication should be no strangers to The ‘Shoe. Their mouthwatering barbecue ribs were developed by a Memphis rib master and the southern twang in their barbecue sauce makes it the most authentic in the Valley. If you’d rather keep your hands clean, Horseshoe Grille serves steak, meatloaf and chicken.
226 Main St. l North Reading, Mass.
HorseshoeGrille.com

Milestone — 100 Years
Lowell Humane Society
Founded in 1873, the Lowell Humane Society is one of the oldest humane organizations in the state of Massachusetts. The purpose of the Lowell Humane Society is to prevent cruelty to animals, provide care for homeless and distressed animals and educate the public about responsible pet ownership. Operations are supported through the support of individuals, businesses and foundations.
951 Broadway St. | Lowell, Mass.
LowellHumaneSociety.org

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

2019 MVMA Winners – Play

August 20, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

Live Music Venue
Lowell Folk Festival
Music lovers rejoice! This free annual festival kicks off at the end of July with three days of nonstop tunes. Along with music from around the world, enjoy craft demonstrations and ethnic food stalls situated throughout Lowell’s downtown. Watch street performers, let the kids run free in the family activity area and dance the night away.
Lowell, Mass.
LowellFolkFestival.org

Theater/Arts Venue
Merrimack Repertory Theatre
Merrimack Repertory Theatre has been Merrimack Valley’s professional theater company since 1979 and is an integral part of Lowell’s identity as the cultural heart of the region. The company is a leader in fostering and celebrating new plays, frequently producing world and regional premieres, as well as working with its national network of associate artists on workshops and readings. Acknowledging that artists are at the core of all creative work, MRT focuses on developing relationships with artists who are attracted to Lowell by MRT’s reputation for its commitments to the highest artistic standards.
50 E. Merrimack St. | Lowell, Mass.
MRT.org

Family Fun
Lowell Spinners
This year, The Spinners celebrate their 24th season in Lowell as a Class A Affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Fans of the Lowell Spinners have watched many Spinners prospects climb the minor league ladder to become major leaguers. What’s more, The Spinners provide fun, affordable entertainment for the whole family. With a full slate of exciting promotions, contests and giveaways, every Spinners game is a memorable event.
Lowell, Mass.
LowellSpinners.com

Museums & Galleries
Western Avenue Studios
Western Avenue is home to the largest artist community on the eastern seaboard of the U.S. The 5-acre complex and its varied brick mill buildings host 250 work-only studios, 50 live/work lofts, over a dozen teaching artists, the artist-run Loading Dock Gallery and the Onyx Room Performance Space. Visit during their Open Studios events to meet the artists and learn more.
122 Western Ave. | Lowell, Mass.
WesternAvenueStudios.com

Stop by next week for the winners in the ‘Milestone – Longevity in Business’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

2019 MVMA Winners – Retail Therapy

August 13, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

Florist (tie)
The Flower Mill
Since it opened in 2012, The Flower Mill provided the Lowell community with a wide variety of custom floral arrangements for all occasions. Owner Joanna Hall is a self-taught designer who studied fine arts in Italy and at Manchester’s New Hampshire Institute of Art. She also makes the stores 100% soy wax candles.
183 Dutton St. | Lowell, Mass.
LowellFlowerMill.com

Flowers by Steve
Step into a floral paradise at Flowers by Steve’s Haverhill store. Steve’s can create specialized arrangements for weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions. Offering everything from classic roses to exotic bouquets, Flowers by Steve can tailor arrangements to your requests. Find the perfect bouquet for your favorite person with the help of the expert designers at Steve’s.
14 Cross Road | Haverhill, Mass.
FlowersbySteveInc.com

Jeweler
Barmakian Jewelry
Barmakian Jewelers Nashua offers a large selection of loose diamonds, engagement rings, wedding bands, designer jewelry and Swiss watches in their newly renovated showroom. Shop for top watch brands such as Omega, Breitling and TAG Heuer or jewelry from bridal designers such as Tacori, Coast Diamond, Kirk Kara and Scott Kay.
300 Daniel Webster Highway | Nashua, N.H.
Barmakian.com

Mens Fashion
The Andover Shop
Men can dress for success with quality clothing from The Andover Shop. Their unmatched selection of suit jackets, oxford shirts and silk ties will make you the best dressed man in the office. Spending the day at home? Their jerseys and colorful shorts will keep you cool and classy through even the hottest summer days.
Cambridge and Andover, Mass.
TheAndoverShop.com

Womens Fashion
Humanity
Humanity sells overlooked and timeless pieces that encourage their clients to live in style. As a Lowell-based boutique, they incorporate the culture and style of the city into this mix and attitude. This is why over the years they have become the go-to place for individualistic fashionistas.
128 Merrimack St. | Lowell, Mass.
HumanityStyle.com

Consignment Shops
Chic Consignment
Clients come from all over the Merrimack Valley to visit this Andover consignment shop. They offer an ever-changing selection of fun, trendy and high-end clothes and accessories, with a head-turning selection of handbags.
46 Main St. | Andover, Mass.
ChicConsignment.com

Apothecaries/Natural Products
Red Antler Apothecary
Red Antler Apothecary is located in Lowell’s Mill No. 5, a repurposed factory on Jackson Street. The apothecary sells soaps, moisturizers, cleansers and even mustache wax. Their ethically created, home crafted products include a pine tar soap recipe that is over 100 years old. Environmentally conscious clients can bring their own containers —
Red Antler’s cream, lotions and cleaners are sold by the ounce.
Mill No. 5 | 250 Jackson St. | Lowell, Mass.
RedAntlerApothecary.com

Stop by next week for the winners in the ‘Retail Therapy’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

2019 MVMA Winners – Wine & Dine (Part 2)

July 30, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

Specialty Market
Butcher Boy Market
Break out the grill and grab an apron. Butcher Boy Market’s 60-foot meat counter has all the poultry, beef, lamb, veal, pork and homemade sausages you need. Not sure what you want? Their experienced butchers are happy to help you decide. Pick up some fresh fruit and beer for the perfect summer spread.
1077 Osgood St. | North Andover, Mass.
ButcherBoyMarket.com

Wine Shop
Andover Classic Wines
Whether you’re throwing a party or need to pick up wine for dinner, Andover Classic Wines can help. Shop your favorite style or vintner, or browse by country. Find a cabernet from Argentina, a riesling from Germany or a pinot from New Zealand. International beers and spirits are also on hand at this well-versed shop.
Andover, Mass.
AndoverClassicWines.com

World Cuisine
Fuse Bistro
Chef-owned Fuse prides itself on making its food from scratch, right down to the ice cream and chipotle ketchup. The creativity of the seasonal and locally-sourced menu is matched by the easygoing ambience — for many locals, the outdoor seating evokes lazy summers sipping ice-cold craft cocktails with friends.
45 Palmer St. | Lowell, Mass.
FuseBistro.com

New Restaurant
The Keep
The Keep has quickly rose to prominence as a go-to spot in downtown Lowell for craft beer, dinner with the family or cocktails with friends after work. Featuring beer from award-winning breweries both near and far, signature cocktails and fresh, locally sourced food served in an approachable atmosphere. The Keep also boasts an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection.
110 Gorham St. | Lowell, Mass.
TheKeepLowell.com

Diner
Four Sisters Owl Diner
Breakfast at this historic diner is guaranteed to start your day off right. Old favorites are given new life in Owl’s savory steak and eggs, homemade corned beef hash and creamed chipped beef on toast. Soups, salads and sandwiches make up the lunch menu. Wake up and fuel up at the Owl Diner.
244 Appleton St. | Lowell, Mass.

Frozen Treats
Kimball Farm
Kimball Farm has been making ice cream for more than 75 years. With a variety of sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt, in addition to more than 50 flavors of ice cream, there’s something for everyone. Vanilla ice cream is a traditional crowd favorite, particularly in hot fudge sundaes, banana splits, and the Kimball Special — three softball-size scoops of ice cream, three toppings, marshmallow, whipped cream and nuts.
Carlisle, Lancaster and Westford, Mass.; Jaffrey, N.H.
KimballFarm.com

Alfresco Dining
The Deck
The Deck is located at historic Bridge Marina, the oldest marina on the Merrimack River, and offers delicious drinks and a simple, refined menu. The food is freshly prepared each day from scratch to deliver a unique and tasty experience and the waterview is one of the best in the region. After a recent expansion, there is now a second-floor roofed lounge area.
179R Bridge Rd. | Salisbury, Mass.
TheDeckSalisbury.com

Caterers
Two Chefs Are Better Than One
Two Chefs Are Better Than One Catering can create an ideal menu for any wedding or celebration, whether it’s a quaint family gathering or an extravagant gala with hundreds of guests. Let Two Chefs worry about the details while you enjoy your special day. Work with their event coordinators to customize a list of options that meets all your needs and desires.
Lowell, Mass.
TwoChefsFood.com

Seafood
Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge
The panoramic ocean views at this casual upscale restaurant make it an ideal destination for a simple night out or a big celebration. Seaglass offers a wide selection of surf and turf entrees and local seasonal specials. Stop by Sundays for Seaglass’s Brunch by the Sea and enjoy a bloody mary with your water view.
4 Oceanfront North | Salisbury, Mass.
SeaglassOceanside.com

Stop by next week for the winners in the second half of our ‘Wine & Dine’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Holiday Gift Guide – 2019

2019 MVMA Winners – Milestone (Longevity in Business)

2019 MVMA Winners – Play

2019 MVMA Winners – Retail Therapy

2019 MVMA Winners – Wine & Dine (Part 2)

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