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Stratford Connecticut
Discover what Stratford has in Store
Stratford Connecticut
Discover what Stratford has in Store
Stratford Small Businesses Preparing for 2019 Event!
It's A Team Effort
Karin Doyle of Stratford CT Economic Development shown here dropping off promotional signs to Mellow Monkey Gifts and Home Decor owner, Howard Aspinwall. Look for these signs next week as a reminder to Shop Small in Stratford On Small Business Saturday. A very special thank you to both The Milford Bank (our local corporate sponsor) and Stratford's Office of Economic Development for covering the cost of making these signs.
For Every Trend, There Is A Counter Trend
Even though it might seem like the Amazons of the world are taking over, consumers are increasingly seeking the authentic, tangible experiences that only local shops can offer.
When you Shop Small, you can also feel good that you're keeping your spending dollars in your own community, because small businesses give back in a way that national retailers hardly do, and online retailers don't do at all.
Double the difference you make by sharing your Small Business commitment with others.
Shop Small Stratford Businesses
Bar, Wine and Brew
Three breweries and super friendly watering holes make Stratford the perfect place to enjoy your favorite craft beverage or libation.
Desserts and Treats
When it comes to sweet confections, Stratford has so many choices. From Salted Caramel Frozen Yogurt, to Sundaes from "Paradice" to old fashioned ice cream with turn-of-the-century history.
Services
If you're looking for a service provider across a wide spectrum of disciplines, you don't need to go far. Salons, Opticians, Martial Arts and even 3D Printing, Stratford has it all and so much more!
Shopping
When it comes to innovative and unique offerings, Stratford has it all. From local craftspeople to specialized gear for surfcasting to home decor and gifts you are unlikely to find anywhere else.
Dining
Whatever type of cuisine you fancy, Stratford's restaurants have it. From Latin Fusion to Dive Bar Grub to Waterfront Dining, it's all here in one town!
Arts & Entertainment
Stratford has the largest indoor haunted attraction in Connecticut with over 20,000 square feet and will feature "A Frightmare Before Christmas"
Making it Official!
Official Proclamation - Shop Small Stratford Saturday
Mayor Laura Hoydick presented a proclamation officially declaring November 30th, 2019 "Shop Small Stratford Saturday." The content of this proclamation demonstrates that the town's leadership understands AND supports small, independent business in Stratford.
The proclamation was presented to Mellow Monkey Gifts and Home Decor owner, Howard Aspinwall (right) - the AMEX Neighborhood Champion and organizer of the event for the fourth year in a row. Jorge Santiago, Executive Vice President of Milford Bank (left) was also on hand representing the bank as the official local sponsor of the event.
Small Business Thrives in Stratford
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Just a few Stratford Small Business Owners joining the official proclamation. From left to right, Paul Joy, Owner of Goody Bassett's Ice Cream, Jorge Santiago, Executive VP of Milford Bank in Stratford, Mayor Laura Hoydick, Howard Aspinwall, Owner of Mellow Monkey Gifts & Home Decor, Kathy Vass, Owner of Ever After Memories, and Sorina Nedelea, Co-Owner of Dream Kitchens
Shopping small is a big deal
This event is YOUR opportunity to show support for the many diverse and unique independent businesses that make up a large part of the texture and color of our town.
Small businesses give back in so many ways. Make this your day to show your appreciation by supporting these businesses and their continued longevity in Stratford.
Stratford Small Business in Action History
Small Business Stratford In The News!
Participating Stratford Small Businesses Gather to kick off the 14 day countdown to Shop Small Stratford at Mellow Monkey Gifts and Home Decor. Jen Bridwell Oppenheim of Transformation for Every Body LLC seen here being interviewed by News12 CT.
Women Owned Small Businesses In Stratford
Stratford has many small businesses owned and operated by women. Several were on hand for the official 14 day countdown. From left to right, Doreen Torres of GAFAS Optical, Sorina Nedelea of Dream Kitchen Designs, Carla Shavel of Skincare by Carla, Kathy Vass of Ever After Memories, and Jen Bridwell Oppenheim of Transformation for Every Body LLC.
Shop Small Stratford Community Spotlight
Stratford Small Business Spotlight
Pine Street Picture Framing
When you’re looking to frame that special work of art, print, painting or cherished photograph, the professionals for over 16 years are right here in Stratford!
Looking for a custom mirror - or perhaps a custom bulletin board? What ever your idea, Pine Street Picture Framing will work with you to create the perfect piece to fit your space and your decor.
Learn More
The holidays are fast approaching so gather up those things you’ve been meaning to frame and call Pine Street Framing at 203-377-4169 for an appointment at their Lordship home studio.
Stratford Small Business Spotlight
Riley's by the Seawall
Riley’s by the Seawall is an exciting waterfront restaurant that opened this year in the site previously operated as "Crabby Dog" and before that, "Mara Belle."
Owners Richard Davis and Steve O’Neill started the seafood restaurant with an aim to create a new community hub that offers both dining and pub fare.
The new owners renovated the space and successfully transformed it into the tropical-themed restaurant and pub they envisioned, which Davis said matched with the overall atmosphere of their Long Island Sound location. The new bar overlooks the waterfront and the refurbished dining room is bright and also affords views of the Sound.
Richard Davis is not new to the restaurant business. He has owned and operated eateries throughout Fairfield County for 30 years. His most recent restaurant was Murphy’s Townhouse Café in Stamford. He also had opened the original Riley's in New Milford in the early 1990s before selling it.
Riley's by the Seawall was inpsired by the 1960s television show, “The Life of Riley" - who Davis said is more of a free spirit by the water type, so it’s a natural location for a Riley’s.”
This is O’Neill’s first experience in the restaurant business, coming from a lengthy career in the finance industry. Both O'Neill and Davis decided to team up when they learned of the opportunity for a waterfront establishment in Stratford.
The atmosphere of the restaurant, the proximity to the peaceful vibes of the beach and the indisputable talent in the kitchen makes Riley's the perfect year round spot for dining out and having a cocktail with friends.
Learn More
Riley's by the Seawall
14 Beach Dr Stratford CT 06615
(203) 693-9255
Open 7 days a week serving both Lunch and Dinner.
The Menu consists of Seafood, Salads, Steaks, Burgers, Wings.
The dining room accommodates up to 30 people, with additional seating for 28 in the bar area and 12 seats at the bar with waterfront views. There is additional seating for 42 outside on the seasonal waterfront patio.
About Us
Mellow Monkey
The store that is anything but the ordinary has taken the lead in promoting Stratford Small Merchant Businesses for the fourth year in a row. Mellow Monkey is also AMEX's official "Neighborhood Champion" for Stratford and provides the funding for the management and hosting of this site and for The Lower Loop website.
American Express
American Express sponsors Small Business Saturday® on Nov 30th.
This no cost program helps local businesses attract customers with promotional assistance all compliments of American Express.
Shop Small Stratford appreciates the support and assistance from American Express Monica for her hard work towards making this the best Shop Small Stratford Saturday ever.
Positively Stratford
Stratford, Connecticut has incredible potential and exciting things are happening in this coastal town on the eastern fringe of Fairfield County. This group is all about sharing positive experiences, events, activities and changes happening in Stratford. Your one source for Local Optimism.