Exploring the treasures of Troy

The other day a friend and I went exploring through the town of Troy, Ohio and found some exciting little shops along the way. 

As you know, I’m all about family-owned businesses and supporting the dreams of small business owners. There’s nothing like the excitement that’s felt when an owner sees a customer enjoying what they offer and knowing that you are supporting their journey. If I had a creative bone in my body, I’d love to take the same kind of journey. The thought of being my own boss and providing the community with something exciting, new, and out of the ordinary would be beyond my hopes. But, since I don’t, I’ll have to continue my day job. 

As we walked through the streets, block after block, I found five shops that really inspired me. I wanted to share them with you in hopes that they inspire you as well. 

Samozrejme
123 S. Market Street
Troy, OH 45373
Phone: (937) 552-9143
Website: www.clothdiaperstroy.com

I could go on and on about the services and products this quaint little shop offers, but you can read all of that on the website. Instead, I’ll tell you that this is the cutest kids’ shop that I’ve seen in a really long time. If you’re looking for durable, environmentally safe and/or recycled friendly toys, this is your store. If you’re looking for something unique and something out of the ordinary, this is the place. Whether it be toys, books, maternity clothes, cloth diapers or teething rings, yep, you guessed it- this is the place.

The minute I walked into this shop, I was instantly in love. I can’t wait to go back. Next time, I’m taking the grandkids so they can play in the little play area. I might stop by a cafe and get a tea so I can sit on the couch and watch them play.

Haren’s Market 
2 East Main Street 
Troy, OH 45373
Phone: (937) 335-1399
Website: www.facebook.com/harensmarket/

I don’t know who ever thought “bigger is better” when it comes to markets but, I hate them. I want small so I can run in and out within minutes. I want fresh produce and fresh-cut meats that are locally grown and butchered. I want healthy products that are not refined and processed. I thought it would be hard to find, but I finally found that place. It’s called Haren’s Market. It’s the size of a small boutique but offers selections from fresh produce to sweet and savery treats. It’s a great change to the norm. We need more of these markets to move into other localities. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Echo Boutique 
101 S. Market Street 
Troy, OH 45373
Phone: (937) 219-5651
Website: www.facebook.com/theechoboutique/

Echo Boutique has something for everyone. That’s why I love it. Most of the boutiques around the area that offers clothing usually cater to the thin so it limits people like me – a little on the thick side. (okay- big girl!) So, it’s nice to see boutiques that offer more of a variety. This shop offers home goods, children’s clothing and clothing for the thin gals, including trendy accessories. It’s located on a corner with corner windows which offers lot of natural lighting throughout the shop that creates a homey, welcoming feel. I’m sure that you’ll love it.

The Blue Bow Boutique
108 E. Main Street 
Troy, OH 45373
Phone: (937) 670-2027
Website: www.facebook.com/thebluebowboutique/

The Blue Bow Boutique is another one of those shops that offer a variety of items that target a wide variety of shoppers, although mostly for the young, hip and fashionable, which sometimes an old girl like me can also enjoy. This place is refreshing, warm and welcoming. Let me know what you think.

Bakehouse Bread & Cookie Company
317 Public Square 
Troy, OH 45373
Phone: (937) 339-8100
Website: https://www.facebook.com/bakehousebread/

The I walked into this bakery, the smell of freshly baked bread, cookies and something else swept through the air. Coffee was brewing and the waitresses were running plates of food from table to table. It was busy, loud with people laughing, talking and eating. It was a rush of excitement. But, the best story of all, for this bustling place, was the homemade cookies – yes, cookies. Exploring a new town makes one ready for a good snack, and when a place offers cookies, you get one. I got a chocolate chip cookie. It was large, thick and the most delicious cookie I’ve ever eaten in my life. I can’t wait to go back to see what else this place has to hold. The food coming out of the kitchen looked equally delicious and if I drank coffee, I would try that too because it smelled delicious. If you try it, let me know what you think.

Enjoy!