NEWSLETTER
Corning, NY – If the past year has revealed anything it’s that, perhaps a bit ironically, while we haven’t been able to be around people the way we have in the past, we might just rely on them more than ever. Thanks to entrepreneur Victoria Sardo, over 80 local artists and vendors are being given a chance to showcase their diverse creations while the community is also being given a place where they can come support local artists and find wonderful products handcrafted right here in the region. That place is Finger Lakes Unique, Victoria’s new shop located at 99 East Market Street in Corning (in the former Bass Store).
Victoria didn’t set out, at least not at first, to be this connector of people and things. When she started AnnaMarri Soy Candles over a decade ago, it was shortly after her youngest child was born and she sought a flexible option for income. She did research, discovered that soy seemed to be better for the environment and for health. It was also a chance for her to create something “that was just me,” she says.
She experimented and tested the early candles on friends and family, trying to perfect the burn time and the fragrances. “And they kept asking for more,” she adds. Back in 2011, she had a small shop on Market Street and her candles could also be found at The Windmill, at various festivals, and at other stores.
The company, named after her two daughters, Arianna and Marissa, was an endeavor to create a quality offering without high cost. Victoria hand pours each candle and stands behind them, so if a customer has a problem, they’re encouraged to let her know. “No questions asked,” she says.
And while her business has been going strong all these years, she was looking to do something more. “I thought it would be cool to have a store with items made in the Finger Lakes region. To have handcrafted items from local artists. People are often looking for something locally made. The stars aligned,” she admits. “We have had great support and backing. From the landlord who has been wonderful to the Gaffer District to the many artists.
At 90 vendors, the shop is full. With everything from jewelry to skin care, from locally made maple and honey products to her own handcrafted soy candles. From popular Finger Lakes Chocolates to dog treats. “Everything is handcrafted or refurbished by someone here in the Finger Lakes. We have quite a variety, but try not to have duplication.” There are a couple vendors, for example, specializing in jewelry, but each has a different style. The same is true of the paintings with artists working in different media and using different techniques.
The shop had a soft opening around the holidays in 2020, and has been building a following with their unique quality products.
Check Finger Lakes Unique’s Facebook page to learn more about hours and specials. Don’t forget to stop by the shop to explore the collection of locally-produced items.
Contact:
Victoria Sardo
Finger Lakes Unique
99 East Market Street
Corning, MY 14830
https://www.facebook.com/FLXUnique
(607) 377-6505