We’re all about supporting young entrepreneurs around here, especially those that have done their homework: executing their plan with a clear vision and strong merchandising. That’s what you’ll find at Azalea Home in Niantic. The pair of recent college grads behind this endeavor had a decor dream with a fair trade/beachy/farm house bent that suits the Shoreline to a T.

You’ll find plenty of giftable goodies here for every summer host or hostess (candles, creams, balms and more from the likes of Joanna Gaines and Beekman 1802) but for me, the stand-outs are the more unusual picks. Hefty round cutting boards, oversized creamware cake plates (great for hors d’oeuvres, too), the lovely fair trade rattan table runners (a super summer update) and dishcloths pictured below. You’ll find a curated selection of cook books and fancy hipster magazines you’ve never heard of (I snagged copies of The Coastal Table and The Hungry Campers Cookbook). Co-Owner Lexi is a decorator, too, and is happy to come to you for consults. The painted furniture in the shop is her work, and she’ll give your old pieces a new life if that’s what you’re after. It’s a sweet shop and a cheerful addition to Niantic.

www.azaleahomect.com   301 Main Street, Niantic

Rattan Table Runners