Palmer Alaska

Non-essentials1

For Denise, this store is an effort of love. She strives for great products, good relationships with the community, and seeks a way to supplement her family. She has a resilient entrepreneurial spirit, which she is passing on to the next generation—part of owning the store is giving her kids an opportunity to be involved and learn about business.

NonEssentials2

So what sort of things qualify as “nonessential”? The store particularly focuses on specialty food. “Specialty” means food you can’t get at ordinary grocery stores. There are vats of specialty cooking oils, fancy baking mixes, assorted dried goods, a wide selection of chocolate, Alaskan condiments, exotic spices, even brightly colored dishes. But it doesn’t stop there. The store also sells local artists’ work, (more support of entrepreneurship!) and an assortment of little luxuries like lotions, candles, greeting cards, and scarves. (Major shopping hint: This is the perfect place to go if you need to buy someone a gift, and can’t think of anything to get them.)

NonEssentials