Winter in New England is a magical and majestic time, spawning Hallmark movies and Norman Rockwell artwork for decades. It’s a snow-filled, quaint wonderland. The naturally scenic landscapes of the northeast are covered with a layer (or several) of crisp, sparkling snow, while the wind whips against already frozen wind chimes. Skiing and snowboarding are in full swing, and fireplaces and pine trees contribute to the complex and layered scents in the air.
Just the very notion of a New England winter creates a sense of cozy peace for me. Instantly, I crave a warm beverage and a throw blanket while I listen to a fire crackle.
While iconic and beautiful, New England winters can also be harsh and unforgiving. But with the right planning and the right supplies, they can also be the highlight of the year. To help you get the most out of your winter, here are 6 ways to stay cozy during New England winters.
Dress cozy.
As you’re strolling and admiring the scenery, make sure you’re bundled properly. Avoid frostbite on your fingers by wearing the wool mittens from Monadnock Mitten, which are upcycled products from a mother/daughter team in New Hampshire. (You can grab a pair, or get the mittens and more in our Winter Wonderland collection.) You could also try the lobster scarf from Printed Village in Vermont. Although it’s lightweight, it is very cozy when wrapped around you.
Keep winter skin cozy.
We cannot preach enough the value of taking care of your skin during the winter. New England boasts a plethora of quality producers of lotions, salves, and balms to keep you comfortable and protected this winter. We love the Bee Silk luxurious moisturizing cream from Beeline Skincare in New Hampshire. It’s a restorative, all natural, wrinkle-reducing moisturizer. Check our site for Maine’s Fabula Nebulae company, who has a fabulous foot balm that will keep your feet soft and nurtured this winter, and all year. We also have a wide variety of other incredible ways to nurture your skin and hair. Whatever you use, make sure you combat the dryness and harsh winds of these cold months.
Eat up.
Although humans don’t hibernate (but can we, please?), we still need our sustenance. And since we’re going to eat anyway, let’s make it something yummy like this AMAZING popcorn from Inpopnito in Rhode Island. They have a bunch of flavors with whimsical names and ideas behind their products, and we cannot get enough of the Buttered Maple. Port City Pretzels in New Hampshire creates indescribably delicious snacks. If you’re a stew or chowder fan, the chowder bowls from Salmon Falls Stoneware in New Hampshire are essential. Grab our “Chowder” book from Applewood Books to sit back and read while enjoying your chowder! While you indulge, keep your space (and your clothes) tidy with these napkins from Cinder and Salt in Connecticut.
Stay lit.
When the daylight hours are drastically reduced during winter, you’ll need a source of light. You could just flip a switch, OR you could light some candles and reduce electricity usage. Candles create an air of calm in virtually any setting. These upcycled coconut shell candles from Backyard Candles have been some of our favorites since we opened our doors. Same with these gorgeous pinecone candles from Seapoint Chandlers in Maine. Maine also boasts beautiful all-natural beeswax candles from Main Street Bee. (We’re also falling for these candles from Ipswich Bay in Massachusetts, so keep your eyes open for them this spring.) These are all beautiful, practical, and soothing options to keep you in the light.
Drink up.
I have a personal tradition every year where I make a cup of hot chocolate on the first day it snows. This day always reminds me how much I love hot chocolate, so I start making it on every winter day that ends in “day.” I’m currently obsessed with the Marshmallow Swirl version of Silly Cow’s hot chocolate mix, made in Vermont. Rich and creamy and delicious. If you’re going to enjoy some hot chocolate (or an “adult” hot chocolate to feel extra warm), we recommend holding on to something that radiates quality. The mug from Brick Piggy Pottery based in Massachusetts is just the thing. It feels secure in the hand without being heavy.
Treat yourself.
Winter is a perfect time to turn inward and focus on yourself, your goals, and your relationships (with friends, family, or with the planet). It’s a season to pamper yourself. Give yourself the gift of relaxation with the Raspberry Rush bath set from Chubby Chico Charms in New Hampshire. During your soak in the tub with their bath bomb, jot your thoughts in our “Stellar” journal from Big Wheel Press in Massachusetts. For an extra treat for yourself, you must try the Peanut Butter Balls from Robin’s Confections in Maine. It’s virtually impossible for me to stop after just one. Or try their chocolate covered marshmallows, paired with Silly Cow’s hot chocolate…
These are my favorite 6 ways to stay cozy during New England winters. What helps you appreciate and enjoy a quaint northeast winter? Share your thoughts with us!
~Angela
