All this week I’m sharing my 2nd annual Shop Local holiday series on the blog. Hear from the best of local shop owners about what they’re loving this season and where they love to shop! Today we’re talking with Philip, owner of Sault New England — one of the most beautifully curated shops I’ve visited — and the eye behind the gorgeous @SaultNewEngland instagram handle. Check out the rest of the series here.
Welcome Philip! Tell me a little bit about your shop and how you got started.
Philip: After working as a Visual Merchandiser for over 18 years I decided I would try my hand at opening my own retail shop. SAULT Opened in the fall of 2011 with the idea of creating a shop that would be focused on guys clothing and some gift products. It’s a small shop but still feels easy to shop around and explore. Its worth the trip in if you find yourself in the South End of Boston.
I personally find it super hard to shop for the guys in my life — are there any go-to items that you offer that you always recommend for holiday gift giving?
Philip: It always depends on the guy, Tech is big with the iPhone, and we have wood covers for them along with some fabric covered cords that are cool and unusual. Winter accessories are always good — we have leather iTouch gloves that are perfect for a guy who’s into fashion. We also have a great assortment of personal care items that bundle well together: add some shave cream by Urasa Major, Razor by Harry’s, and a few bars of beer soap to one of our Dopp kits by Owen and Fred and you have a personalized gift for any guy.
How about some smaller items in the shop? Any good stocking stuffers?
Philip: Stocking stuffers are always a great seller. We have a ton of great gifts for every type of guy from your brother to your grand pop and every man in between: wallets by Jack Spade, Cashmere blend socks, cool bottle openers made in the USA, and even the classic nostalgic balsa wood plane that was a staple for every all American kid.
One of my favorite things about shopping local is the way that the community supports each other — what are your favorite places to shop in Boston?
Philip: Some of my favorite shops to buy gifts for the ladies in my life just so happen to be in the same neighborhood as our shop. My favorite shops are PATCH NYC, Hudson, Olives & Grace and Niche.
What would you tell someone that’s thinking about shopping local this year? Any words of wisdom about why you think it’s important?
Philip: Shopping local is so important to your community and town. Local business give back more to their areas in so many ways. It increases foot traffic and lowers crime, Small shops help create a sense of community and culture to neighborhoods that reflect the people who live there and help to raise the value of surrounding real estate. Shopping local is a true investment into your neighborhood.
All photos credited to local Boston photographer: Bring to Light Photography.
I think I will make a trip thre for the men in my life.. thanks for the advise – Ann Emerson
I love this shop local series! I live in Boston and literally have never made a trip to the South End! I’m now setting up a trip to go there and explore these shops. Any restaurant recommendations for a cute date night dinner? Thanks!
Of course! I love gaslight for brunch, stella has awesome italian food, and if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, try Myers and Chang!