Author: Chris Goudreau

Hidden gems from around the world – available in the Valley Unique jewelry is a great gift for birthdays and celebrations. More people are looking for sustainably made and ethically-sourced jewelry than ever before, and at Le BonNton Home Decor and Gifts in Northampton, you can find one-of-a-kind items that have been hand-picked by owner Cigdem Turkomer. “I don’t have an online store,” Turkomer said. “[The jewelry] should be one of a kind, it should be touched. It’s all handmade and handcrafted.” Le BonNton just celebrated its one-year anniversary in May. While jewelry isn’t her primary focus, Turkomer loves...

Connected to the outside: porches, sunrooms, outdoor kitchens Here in the Pioneer Valley, many people live close to nature with forests nearby and mountains in view. An increasing trend is to meld living space with nature to create a backyard oasis, whether it’s a sunroom, screened-in porch, or another room in the house. Kent Pecoy, owner of Pecoy Companies based in West Springfield, said that demand for outdoor spaces that seem like they are indoors has been steadily rising. “People like to spend more time outdoors,” he said. “What’s become very popular now is outdoor kitchens.” Cooking and eating...