Shopping & Supporting Local this Holiday season

There is no doubt everyone is feeling some sort of effects from the pandemic and the recent mandate to shut down temporarily due to WNY being in the orange zone. Like many, I wanted to share my list of favorite locally owned businesses and some of the places I’ll be supporting this holiday season.

Whenever I’m at Rev it really is the best day!

Fitness Studios:

Revolution Buffalo - Take a virtual or on-demand class, purchase merch or a gift card

Reform - Purchase merch or a gift card to gift to your fitness pal or use when restrictions are lifted

Barre Centric - Sign up for a virtual class, purchase merch or a gift card

Space on Seneca - we could all use a little inner peace and zen right now. They are offering virtual classes during this time.

Clothing + Jewelry:

BKind City - Katie offers everything for clothing for adults and kids, and new home decor!

Anna Grace - this has always been my favorite clothing boutique in town, this store reflects some of my taste in clothing, jewelry and home decor items.

Indie Twenty - Rachel’s boho style and the jewelry she creates makes me enjoy seeing her continue to grow in her business.

Rusterior - Carrie offers a wide variety of clothing, toys and decor for those who have the adventure soul.

Half & Half Boutique - currently offering 20% off your order of $100 or more at checkout.

Copper & Steel Chainmail jewelry (on Instagram)

Peg’s Hardware - I love everything Gretchen creates, pay a visit to her new space for the holiday season at 657 Persons Ave in East Aurora. (Check her social media before heading to the store).

Home Goods + Decor + Candles + Art:

MuseJar

Witches of Wax

Linwood Candles

Oxford Pennant

Kitch Studios

Rusterior

Finishing Touches by Caitlin Krumm

Food + Drink:

Whether you’re ordering take out or purchasing a gift card it will help these businesses be here for when we can be back together again.

Winkler + Samuels - did you see the have a Wine & Spirit Advent calendar - use code holiday fun for $20 off before Thanksgiving.

Paradise Wine

Resurgence Brewing Co.

Hartman’s Distilling Co. - they have a Holiday Market taking place 11/27 thru 11/29, face masks required and social distancing will be enforced. Vendors will be announced the morning of each day.

Hydraulic Hearth

Hearth + Press

The Grange Community Kitchen

West Rose

Share Kitchen + Bar

Toasted Bflo

Breadhive

Meet + Eat Charcuterie - don’t feel like cooking? This is a perfect way to have a custom board made for you. Kristen creates some of the best charcuterie and cheese boards in town.

Bflo Charcuterie Creations - (on Instagram)

Billy Club

Cantina Loco

Kuni’s

The Place

The Cereal Spot

What’s Poppin Gourmet Popcorn

Coffee Shops:

Overwinter Coffee

Remedy House

Five Points

Wonder Coffeehouse

Healthy Options:

Her Kitchen Buffalo

Squeeze Juicery

Newbury Salads

Fresh Catch Poke

Florists:

Who doesn’t love a fresh floral bouquet or wreath for the holidays?!

Wild Blossom Hollow

Wild Root Floral

Petrichor Flora

Kinloch Farmstead - they are offering cute gift sets to purchase, Lavender package or the Bee package

Pet Stores:

Buffalo Barkery

Cultural Institutions:

I’m going to use my platform as a way to promote organizations who need are support if we want them to remain open. There are MANY organizations in WNY that need our support (any little bit counts). Below are cultural institutions and non-profits near and dear to my heart, please consider donating to one of these or to an organization that is near and dear to your heart. The point is to support each other the best way we can during this difficult time, that can be financially or by volunteering your time and talents.

Shea’s Performing Arts Center

The Buffalo Zoo

Albright Knox Art Gallery

Art Park

The Botanical Gardens

The Buffalo Science Museum + Tifft Nature Preserve

Non-Profit Organizations:

Aquarium of Niagara

The Central Terminal

UPward Design for Life

Let them LOL

Make-A-Wish of WNY

Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy

The John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital

Carly’s Club

Explore & More Children’s Museum

Women Who Move Buffalo - Kailey from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations

photo from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations IG

A few weeks ago I came across Buffalo Charcuterie Creations on IG and was immediately impressed with the creative business, so ideally for a friends birthday I planned to celebrate with a picnic in the park that featured F&B from local establishments in the area. It was the perfect opportunity for me to order a charcuterie box.

the picnic not only included the charcuterie box, but wine from Winkler & Samuels & macarons from Fairy Cakes

I contacted Kailey on IG on a Tuesday I believe it was with hopes she would be able to put something together on short notice for that Friday and she was able to! She asked me if I had any requests for the box and we finalized the details on time and place. She dropped off directly to my door step that Friday morning and everything was so easy.

Kailey Dougherty, owner of Buffalo Charcuterie Creations

When I got the box the presentation was amazing, everything was organized, labeled and it was what every event planner dreams of (you understand if you’re a planner). Everything in our box was delicious, some items I’ve had before (hello, Brie!) and some were brand new, but everything was fresh and tasted so good.

my box of heaven

Here is what was in the box:

• Brie

• Eggplant Garlic Spread

• White Cheddar

• Red Pepper Spread

• White Stitton Cheese with Lemon Peel

• Manchego

• Goat Cheese with Honey (this was so, so good!)

• Smoked Gouda

• Cucumber

• Salami

• Fig

• Crackers

• Baby grapes

• Asst. Nuts

Our box was for 2 people, cost $40 and was more than enough food (we had leftovers!) and it was worth every penny.

I had such a good experience that I reached out to Kailey to ask if I could feature her on my site because I want everyone to know what an awesome person and business she has. Check out my Q&A with her below.

photo from Buffalo Charcuterie Creations IG account

AND give her a follow on IG: @bflocharcuteriecreations 

When did Buffalo Charcuterie Creations begin? 

Buffalo Charcuterie Creations began during Coronavirus quarantine, April 2020 to be exact. 

How did it all get started? What made you want to start this business?

It started when my mom wanted to do a charcuterie board for a social distance hang out with her girlfriends but didn’t want one large board that everyone touches. We searched the internet for personal boxes and ended up making each lady a box to enjoy themselves without spreading germs!

Are you a Buffalo Native? 

Buffalo native! Born and raised in Amherst, NY

What is your favorite part of creating the charcuterie boxes? 

My favorite part of creating the boxes is the artistic and creative ability each one gives me. There is no right or wrong way to construct a charcuterie board/ box and while creating each one I always think of a new layout or item to add.

Do you have a favorite cheese? 

My personal favorite cheese is Brie- especially with some honey drizzled on top!

Is there a spread or fruit that you must always put in the boxes? 

My favorite spread that I love to put in every box is a whipped goat cheese and honey with red pepper flakes sprinkled on top. That has gotten great feedback from many so that’s a must for my boxes now! I also love to always try and add cucumbers to compliment the spreads that are added. 

What is your go to for food items in the boxes? 

My go to lately has been smoked Goudas, salami and artichokes. I’m sure those will change soon but for now those are always on my shopping list when grabbing ingredients. Another favorite go to during the summer season has been cheeses featuring lemon- they’re more of a dessert cheese and such a great touch in a summer box! 

Where do you find your creativity? 

As crazy as it sounds most of my creativity came from TikTok (I guess that’s 2020 in a nutshell for ya!) When I was furloughed in the beginning I had a lot of time on my hands and once I stumbled on some charcuterie videos I was fascinated and was motivated to start playing around and trying to construct some boards for friends and family. 

Each box you create is different, how/what inspires you? 

Each box is definitely different and the main thing that inspires me is the season! I swear every time I go to the grocery store there is a new fruit or vegetable in season. I love to mix it up to compliment the time of year and also to keep up with trends of what food people are loving that I see on social media’s. 

What do you love most about Buffalo/WNY? 

My favorite thing about Buffalo is that even though it is a large city it has a way of feeling small and welcoming at the same time. I love always going somewhere and probably running into someone you know. 

What is your favorite & fun part of owning your own business?

My favorite part of starting my own business is definitely being able to make my own hours. Depending on the day I can get spurts of motivation at 8 am or some days not till 4 pm. Making my owns hours leaves me a lot of flexibility and allows me to still create time with family and friends during the fun (short) summer months! 

What types of events, parties, etc. are the boxes best for? Each order is customizable, how big of a charcuterie box can you cater to for those interested in ordering from you? 

The boxes are best for so many events- from girls night, date night, birthday parties, etc. I have made personal boxes for just one person to enjoy on a night for themselves. I have also gotten great feedback that the boxes are perfect for date night, picnics, anniversaries and girls nights. I have also expanded from just the boxes to the larger charcuterie boards. I think these boards would be perfect for larger parties. I have a wedding order coming up this September which includes 6 larger boards to be spread around the reception. Very excited for that opportunity! 

What has been the most popular item your customers request? 

The most popular items that people have requested multiple times has been the whipped goat cheese with honey. I have  also had a great feedback on adding in a dessert style cheese so it is now something I always try to add. 

What has been the most unique item your customers have requested? 

The most unique item I have had so far for me was figs! I had never really used or eaten figs before someone requested some in a box. After that I loved them and now I enjoy adding them every chance I get! I am sad they have such a short season because they’re such a beautiful and delicious fruit. 

If people want to order, what is the easiest way to do so?

The best way to order is through my Instagram @bflocharcuteriecreations. For those who don’t have an Instagram they are always welcome to email me at KED2696@gmail.com 

What has been your most memorable client or part of running Buffalo Charcuterie Creations so far? and why? 

The most memorable part of Buffalo Charcuterie Creations so far is meeting all the new people and being able to connect and network all over WNY. This business has given me the opportunity to travel to many places around that area that I normally wouldn’t before. 

7. 1. 6.

When I began this blog of mine over six years ago I never imagined the amount of love and passion I would have for the city that I am so lucky to call home. Having always loved this region I didn’t think it would be possible to find deeper meaning, deeper roots and deeper passions that I have come to find, but it has happened and there is so, so much to be grateful for in our region.

Since it is “716 day” I thought I would share my list of favorite (favorite!!) restaurants, venues, activities, events, and people I like to follow. I know I missed A LOT on this list (it’s so hard to think of it all), but take a look. Let me know what are some of your favorite things in the 716 - places you like to go, events you like to attend and people you like to follow.

Western New York may be a small region compared to big cities, but it has a ton of talent, pride and passion to share with visitors and those that are lucky to call it home.

Favorites broken down by category:

Brewery: Resurgence – Have you checked out their new location at 55 Chicago? If not, definitely put it on your list of things to do

Restaurants:

• Southtowns: Alchemy Wine Bar/The Grange

• Downtown Restaurants: Marble + Rye, Hearth + Press (especially before a show at Sheas), Hydraulic Hearth (love their outdoor patio in the summertime), Cantina Loco is my favorite spot for guac, and chips and they are my favorite spot for margaritas. Love Wasabi on Elmwood for Sushi

• Northtowns: Share on Main Street, TCB on Transit Road and Greens on Transit

Cocktails – Duende at Silo City is a pretty cool, chill place, Angelica Tea Room, Just Vino on Main Street, Blackbird Cider on Chandler Street, The Terrace at Delaware Park is a beautiful spot as well, those views of Hoyt Lake are BEAUTIFUL.

Dog Park: Hands down my Harlie girl loves the Knox Farm – whether its running around at the dog park or walking the trails it’s a happy place for her

Workout Spot: #REVLIFE is the best life. Any class at Revolution Buffalo is sure to be a fun time. It is my happy place. A place where I take in all the positive vibes that I can. I also love Love in Motion yoga. Kate and Kath bring those feel good vibes with every flow

Outdoor spots: Hands down The Outer Harbor is my favorite waterfront spot and a spot that I never get sick of. Whether it’s a run, walk, the views or visiting Tifft Nature Preserve it has a special place in my heart. Delaware Park and Artpark are also places I love to visit outdoors

Fun things to do: A fishing excursion with Brookdog Fishing is a blast and I highly recommend for anyone (at any fishing level). The Buffalo Pedal Tours are so much fun, Hatchets & Hops is also a fun place to check out as well as the Silo City tours with Explore Buffalo

Coffee Shops: Remedy House, Tipico, Public and Overwinter

Favorite places: The Buffalo Zoo (that’s a given; I mean if you know me you know how much I love animals (more than some people)). The Aquarium is another favorite spot. The Science Museum, kayaking, The Buffalo Central Terminal and the Broadway Market

Shops I love to visit: Anna Grace on Elmwood, Mod Nos on Hertel, Winkler & Samuels Wine Purveyors at 500 Seneca, Pegs Hardware

My spots for wings: Nine Eleven Tavern in South Buffalo is a hole in the wall, but the wings are one of the best in town (in my opinion), I am also a fan of Carbone’s on South Park and Duffs

Favorite social media accounts to follow/motivate me, locally here in Buffalo: Buffalo Boss Babes, Christy at Wild Blossom Hollow, Lloyds, The Buffalo Zoo, Adventures are Waiting (Jess Kelly), BKind City, We Must Dash, Indie Twenty (Rachel), Love in Motion Yoga, Balanced Bright Life (Jessica Reagan), West End Interiors, Yoga Steve (Steve Procknal), and Lauren from Rev @liittlelauren

Favorite summer time events: Jack Craft Fair and new this year – Door Open Buffalo/Explore Buffalo, I always try and visit Shakespeare at Delaware Park too, it’s a classic summertime activity in Buffalo. Wines in the Wild at the Zoo is also one I always go to. For me being an event planner I feel like I attend a lot of events not just plan a lot so when a new event is created or its an event I have never been to – that excites me more than a recurring event, unless it has “wowed” me.

My bucket list of things to do before summer is over: Visit the new Explore & More, A hot air balloon ride (this has been on my bucket list for years), learn/try to paddle board – all those years at the Harbor and I never had a chance to do it then, visit Shirt Factory in Medina, and take a class with Ren at Rise Fitness.

-B

A Hot Spot at 500 Seneca - Winkler & Samuels

Wine 

Purveyors

For those that know me, they know I love wine, like LOVE wine and for those that don't know me, you just learned something new about me. I think at some point in my life I may try to make my own wine, but for now I'll just continue to educate myself on all the different kinds that are out there. Which makes a great segue into my blog post for today, Winkler & Samuels a great, fairly new business in town. 

Located inside 500 Seneca {next to Tommyrotter Distillery} Melissa Winkler a certified sommelier  has a long family history with the neighborhood where Winkler & Samuels sits. Her family previously owned and operated F.X. Winkler and Sons, Buffalo’s oldest grocery store, which stood down the street from her business for 111 years.

The best way I can describe Winkler & Samuels is that it is a top notch wine store with a lot of offerings you don't get at other local stores in town. Not only does Melissa pick each wine out, but she sorts it by region - old vs. new. Its organized making it easy to find your favorite bottle or look for a new kind, it's clean, personal and offers wine you may not see at the typical wine store in your neighborhood.

I personally love that it is so close to my work so I can stop there on my way home and I love that Melissa is there to offer suggestions or guidance based on what you like or what you're looking for. She's legit, she knows what she's talking about and won't steer you wrong. 

What's even better? Their wine cellar, located downstairs from their retail store, it costs $25 a month and gives customers their own storage for up to two cases of wine in a climate controlled room. There is more to the membership to! As a member you receive 20% off wine services, free home delivery, 20 % off wine education classes and more. 

Wine Cellar

So what's one of the best parts of owning your own wine store? One of the best parts of the business is finding new wines and sharing the experience with customers. Carrying wines that are not carried everywhere else offers a unique opportunity for customers to come in and try varieties they may have never known about. 

On tour of the private event area... Mackenzie smiling ...A man enjoying his wine sample

So why Buffalo? Because its a great place to live, its allowed Melissa to open her own wine store and the quality of life is great.

Private event area 

Another part of their private event area - under construction

What's in store for the future? Continuing to grow the wine cellar program, continuing education classes {they offer a lot, check out the event calendar here}. And if you're looking for a place to host an event, they have a great private event space, so follow along as Melissa continues to grow Winkler & Samuels 

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

-B

{A special thank you goes out to my friend  Mackenzie for organizing this interview for me and coming along on the venture xo}

My purchases :) not all of these were for me, some were for a donation.