Warwick businesses enjoy successful holiday season

WARWICK — It was raining on Saturday, Dec. 23, and it had snowed one other Saturday during the holiday season, but the weather had been generally good and the consensus of downtown Warwick merchants was that "Home for the Holidays" was another success.
They also believe that shopping at mom and pop stores instead of malls had returned.
Tom Roberts, president of the Warwick Merchant Guild and owner of Ye Olde Warwick Book Shoppe, hasn't calculated the final tally for his store but he believes it will be better than last year thanks to what he termed a vibrant holiday season.
Tim Mullally, co-owner of Style Council and Blue fashion shops, explained that both his businesses, now well-established, have loyal customer bases that almost guarantee their success in every holiday season.
Another factor, however, was that each year the popularity of certain types of gifts, such as electronics or clothing, changes.
But Mullally echoed the observation of many merchants this year that the public had returned to shopping on Main Street.
"It's a national trend," he said, "and it's in our favor."
Katie Schlichting, whose husband, Jerry, is co-owner of Frazzleberries and who directs online sales and social media for the popular gift shop, reported that this year's "Home for the Holidays" promotion was simply the best for local business.
She believes the successful season for all the shops had much to do with the horse and wagon rides and other free events sponsored by the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Merchant Guild to make Warwick a fun place to shop.
"It's been great," said Mayor Michael Newhard, who is also the owner of Newhard's - The Home Source gift shop on Main Street. "We had a strong holiday season because when you shop in our downtown, it's safe and friendly and you can find quality gifts and personal service."
- Roger Gavan