By Leslie Linsley

“Christmas On Nantucket” (Globe Pequot)

December 2023

A Few Holiday Ideas...

The other day I needed a shot of “retail therapy” and what better place to spend an hour than in Housewares discovering new versions of the everyday items we all take for granted and rarely replace, or even knew existed. A bright green Avocado slicer, 

for example! These little kitchen tools make perfect stocking stuffers. I never thought a pot scraper could be sexy. But with a bright orange or green grip handle, this item became gift worthy, especially since it also works as an icing spreader! Colorful mixing spoons and spatulas, easy grip knives, a mini meat thermometer and a bright yellow fold-up citrus juicer - absolutely had my juices flowing. But the one item that stole my heart was the “almost real looking” black Labrador doorstop. Totally irresistible. Just goes to show how shopping without an agenda can reveal the unexpected. 

The fresh trees have arrived and their smell is positively intoxicating. How is it we never tire of that reminder of the season? Whether you’re celebrating here or off-island, Housewares has all the fixings for a Nantucket- themed Christmas. And the most popular item for this is the locally made, scallop shell tree lights in 3 different lengths, as well as scallop ornaments by islander, Maika Johnson. Shop early - they go fast. Houseware shelves are bursting with tree lights (a new item: lights that are synched through your phone!), exquisite glass ornaments, and candles, soaps and lotions with delicious holiday scents. I couldn’t resist the pots of red Poinsettias for my holiday table. They looked so good, I went back for more to line my steps! When picking up your fresh tree or door decor, remember, these items go fast so don’t wait.

To kick off Marine's 80th year and to get ready for the New Year, something exciting is happening. 2024 is about to explode with many innovative store updates, starting with the transformation of the appliance showroom space in Bayberry Commons. Imagine a spanking new Building Materials showroom where you can see the latest in windows and doors in a newly configured Design and Sales Showroom, conveniently located on the street level. Work is already in progress and it’s exciting to see all the activity going on as this space is transformed for easy access from Marine’s retail store, lumber yard and drive-through facility. 

The staircase to the second floor has been removed and all existing major appliance inventory has been moved to the first floor with new sales and meeting space being constructed on the second floor. To answer everyone’s questions about appliance service, a resounding YES! Marine will continue to service major appliances. In fact the service department has relocated to the Bayberry Commons building next to Wicked Bakery. 

Next, my “tour guide”, Ciara McAuley, Marketing Assistant walked me through to

the Hardware department which she told me will be expanding into the former carpet display. And that’s just the beginning. Home Furnishings is being redesigned for better access to a display of carpet samples and innovative window treatments. Work stations have been relocated for even better customer-friendly assistance. Television sets, air conditioners, dehumidifiers and small electronics will be more accessible in “The Cottage” (Home Furnishings) which is in the process of being reimagined. 

And, let no department be forgotten, Home & Garden will be expanded with new windows facing Orange St. to become your one-stop shop for air conditioners, dehumidifiers and other small appliances. It’s really fun to walk through the store right now while all the rejuvenating activities are happening. But for those of you not particularly fond of change, have no fear, Marine is getting better as it turns 80!

So, don’t just take my word for it. Be part of the process. Check on the progress throughout the New Year!

Happy Holidays to all!