When a neighbouring store can’t host rehearsals for Catskill’s troupe of ukulele players, business owner Maureen Sullivan-Kinch welcomes them at Mahalo Gift Shop on Main Street.

Supporting fellow entrepreneurs goes along with the community’s vibe, she says: “I love people and being able to help out. It’s cool seeing what we can create when we connect with others.”

Maureen joins Kristi Gibson of Magpie Bookshop and Cathy Hennessy of The Painted Piece as one of Catskill, N.Y.’s newest business owners.

A destination for gifts, tunes and creative pursuits

Mahalo is enjoying success as Catskill, N.Y.’s go-to place for gifts and housewares which range from charming and humorous to sophisticated.

Maureen is excited by the momentum the area is gaining and inspired by the creative initiatives of neighbors like Kristi who recently hosted a supper club at Magpie, offering 27 guests for food from local farms presented on ceramics made by a local artist.

“I joke with Kristi that she’s made the street an extension of her living room,” Maureen says.

How to get involved

Following Magpie’s example, Mahalo on Main Street welcomes you to evenings including: Paint and Sips, Psychic Nights and wire wrap bracelet making.

Now that ukulele players are once-in-a-while fixtures at Mahalo, Maureen has started carrying the instruments for sale.

Consider yourself invited to the shop — for a practice or a purchase.

“It’s fun to see a group of otherwise mismatched people jamming out.”