YOU'LL ONLY FIND THIS HERE

When a local, independent business becomes known for something special - a product or service, or even just a unique vibe customers love knowing they're getting a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Here, seven mom-and-pops around the country share what helps them stand out.

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1 The Roxbury

Roxbury, New York.

"When people ask us about our hotel we say. 'Imagine if Alice in Wonderland married Willy Wonka, and they took up residence in Oz.' That's what we want The Roxbury to feel like. We met in NYC in 1988, and have been married for 34 years. 

We spent our first decade together in the theater, but putting food in our mouths became so overwhelming that Greg let a temp job on Wall Street turn into a real job. Then 9/11 happened. We realized we were happiest 'putting on a show' together. We had this little cabin in the Catskills, and we bought a rundown motel 30 minutes down the road. Never in our wildest dreams did we foresee that 21 years and four expansions later, we'd have 43 rooms, suites, and cottages." 

-Owners Gregory Henderson and Joseph Massa

2 ReWax and UnWine 

Jersey City, New Jersey

"Our hands-on candle-pour parties offer our customers an opportunity to let loose in an immersive candle-making experience. We meticulously designed these parties to be a multi-sensory experience, so from the moment customers enter our studio, they are greeted by a soothing ambiance, Top-40 music, and 'scentsational' aromas. Our staff guides them through the entire candle-making process, and customers get to choose from a wide range of fragrances, colors, crystals, and florals. We've really tried to create a haven where people can escape the stress of everyday life and find solace in the simple act of making candles."

-Owner Ashley Shillingford