A Perfect Escape: Our Annual Holiday Shopping Trip to Essex, CT, and a Stay at the River Barn
In the midst of the holiday season's whirlwind, there's a tradition my dear friend Sara and I hold sacred - our annual holiday shopping trip to Essex, Connecticut. It's our time to escape the daily grind, immerse ourselves in the enchanting charm of this New England town, and indulge in the warmth of the season. This year, we decided to elevate the experience by staying at the River Barn, and it was a decision that added a touch of magic to our tradition.
The River Barn: A Quaint Retreat
Before delving into the shopping escapades, let me paint a picture of our wonderful accommodations. The River Barn, nestled in Essex, CT, is a delightful renovated barn that effortlessly blends modern comfort with historic charm. The moment we walked through the door, we were greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere. It felt like we had stepped into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and a cozy fireplace.
Our room was an epitome of comfort, featuring a plush bed that promised restful nights and a private en-suite bathroom that exuded old-world elegance. The attention to detail was impeccable, and it was evident that the River Barn was a labor of love.
The Shopping Extravaganza Begins
Our holiday shopping adventure in Essex marked the heart of our journey. Main Street, aglow with twinkling lights, set the stage for our festive expedition. Wrapped in warm scarves and gloves, we ventured out to explore the charming boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores.
Essex, as we soon discovered, is a treasure trove of unique gifts and handcrafted items, making it a haven for holiday shoppers. Whether it was locally crafted jewelry, artisanal chocolates, or handmade candles, we stumbled upon delightful presents for our loved ones. Among our personal favorites were Weekend Kitchen, River Lane (where we couldn't resist a special treat for ourselves!), J Alden and the Griswold Inn Store, a fantastic little gift shop that could easily occupy an hour of your time.
A True Winter Wonderland
As we meandered through the streets, the snowy landscape around us felt like a scene from a holiday movie. Essex's historic town center, dating back to the 18th century, added to the magical ambiance. We snapped photos of colonial architecture blanketed in snow, and the images were as charming as any holiday card.
Evening Magic and Culinary Delights
As the day's successful shopping spree came to an end, we returned to the inviting embrace of the River Barn, our arms laden with the treasures we'd discovered. Amidst its festive decorations, the ambiance encouraged us to nestle by the fireplace and savor hot cocoa. Here, we shared our tales of adventure, exchanged laughter, and reveled in the warmth of friendship.
Our Essex excursion extended to the town's culinary delights. We had the pleasure of dining at one of its charming restaurants, Noah’s at 63 Main, where we indulged in classic New England dishes, relishing the flavors of the season. Following our delightful meal, we decided to continue our evening at the Griswold Inn Wine Bar, a must-visit spot in Essex, to enjoy a well-deserved drink in a historic and cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect culmination to a day filled with holiday spirit and shared experiences.
A Tradition to Treasure
Our annual holiday shopping trip to Essex, CT, and our stay at the River Barn, is a tradition that we hold dear. It's a reminder that in the midst of the holiday rush and the daily grind, there are moments of respite and connection to be cherished. Essex, with its timeless charm, is the perfect backdrop for our tradition, and the River Barn is the heartwarming haven that adds a touch of magic to our escape. It's a reminder that the holidays are about more than just presents; they're about the gift of shared experiences and the warmth of friendship.
