For the first time in six years, Alison Murphy didn’t have to find a new home for her holiday pop-up shop.
Fortunately, the 26 Pleasant St. location was still available, so faithful customers of Concord Handmade won’t have to search all over the downtown area for the six-week store like they’ve had to in years past. But while the space is the same, you’ll notice a few differences. Gone is the stage at the front of the store, so you can actually see in the window. The bright purple walls have been painted white, and the green carpet that reminded you of a mini-golf course is no longer there.
“It takes me a long time to figure out where everything should go, so having it in the same location is nice,” Murphy said.
And of course, one thing has remained the same – the shop is filled with all kinds of cool stuff made by artists from all over New England.
Take a walk around the store and you’ll see. With the store featuring the work of about 50 crafters and artisans, you’ll probably be able to cross multiple people off your shopping list in one visit.
Most of the artists returned from last year, but Murphy did add a few new ones to the mix. Each year she looks to bring in new ones to help keep things fresh, while also providing items that have been requested by customers the year before.
“Sometimes I’m looking for specific things within a category,” Murphy said. “You want people to remember something from the year before, but also come in and see new stuff.”
Now we encourage you to go check out the shop while it’s open, which is only through the end of the year, but we also feel the need to give you a little more of a picture of what to expect – just in case you’ve never been.
So what kind of things will you find? Well, first off, Murphy made some pretty cool New Hampshire T-shirts and hoodies since a big request each season is about things with New Hampshire on it. There are succulents in vintage or handmade containers, purses, bags, doll clothes, cookbooks, candles and soap, felt food and lots of jewelry. And that’s just scratching the surface. We told you, you need to just stop in and see for yourself.
“I try to think about what other shops there are in Concord and how we can compliment each other,” Murphy said.
Prices for items start at $2 and most things will be below $50, although some original art work goes for upwards of $300.
“I think Concord understands handmade stuff and what it costs to make it,” Murphy said.
The store, which is in the section of Pleasant Street between Main and State streets, is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays, noon to 5 p.m., will be open through Dec. 31 this year.
“It’s great for stocking stuffers and Yankee swap gifts” Murphy said.
