From gritty Robert Moses State Park jewelery to cozy sweaters in classic Long Island prints, whether you're a Long Islander or celebrating the return of summer, many local shops sell unique souvenirs to remind you of your life back home.
Business owners got creative, incorporating zip codes and TV show references into Long Island-themed products. And everyone agrees - this is a great gift for both foreigners and residents.
Check out our selection of local brands, boutiques, art galleries and gift shops.
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Thred in Patchogue opened in 2017 and features all Long Island-themed merchandise.
Owner Merav Shiloni says the section features clothes, candles and bags that pay homage to our island, made by the artists they know best.
Shiloni of Patchog says, "Everyone who lives in my neighborhood, and in the neighborhood where the shop is located. Supporting small businesses is important not only for my business, but for the community."
The store features brands such as Island Rose Designs, which makes handmade clothing and jewelry, and clothing from The Handmade Market Co.
Thred also sells wooden corkscrews and signs from Medford-based wood carving company 612SignWorks. Carved into the wood panels are images of Long Island with the names of various communities and geographic coordinates.
According to Shelloni, the Long Island section is the store's "bestselling merchandise." For more information: 7 Village Voie Verte, Patchogue; threadny.com; 631-730-5755
Craft Market Association.
Four years ago, Elise Grillo was looking for a hobby to keep her busy on her weekdays after work. J
Residents of East Patchog started by painting a wooden sign with a map of Long Island and the word "Home" and selling it on Etsy.
“I really get good feedback from people,” says Grillo. "After a few months of selling, I decided to start an installation business and patented my designs."
His company, The Handmade Market Co. have your own website and sell just about anything. Grillo works with Medford-based printers across the entire Home Collection, which includes men's, women's and children's clothing. He prints logos on all accessories such as hats, glasses, stickers and bags.
There's a wide variety of color options for clothing, but there's a common thread: They're all "soft and comfortable," which is what Grillo is all about.
"We live in such a beautiful place," he said. "I love taking those pictures. It's nice to be able to show your dignity with your t-shirt."
In addition to its online store, its products are sold at Red Barn Store in Bellport, Thred in Patchogue, and Dix Hills on Long Island Highway in Long Island.
Over the years, it has managed to build a loyal local clientele.
"Long Island-themed merchandise is really on trend," says Grillo. "It's a really great gift for people, even those out of state." More info: thehandmademarket.co
Cat bird seat
Sayville's small shops include art galleries and boutiques full of work by local artists.
The Catbird Bench has been around since 2016. Owner Debbie Wycliffe says about 40 artists sell their work in her shop. As well as small souvenirs, there is plenty of art for sale that will remind you of home wherever you go.
"I've been selling more art than anything else lately," says the Bayport, Wycliffe resident.
Plus, the Catbird seat bears a dune gem. The line is known for incorporating sand beads from beaches around the world into necklaces, bracelets and rings. Each expansion represents the origin of the sand, including Sag Harbor and Southampton.
The shop also offers botanically scented Hamptons hand-poured wax, made by Brittany Torres of East Hampton. Each is named after a Long Island community, with distinct aroma notes. Blue Point candles, for example, smell of violets, oranges and sea salt.
"We are a family," Wycliffe said of the artists featured in his shop. “We all work together to build an artistic community that welcomes artists from all over Long Island.” Additional Information: 18 Main Street, Sayville; thecatbirdseat.us; 631-987-4213
Cowboy code
Across the island and on the Loop Parkway, Angela Scudin also brings local artists into her shop. Founded in 2015, Codfish Cowboy is a must-visit gift shop on East Park Avenue in Long Beach. Whether you live in the area or are on a cruise, these items will make your stay memorable, says Skudin.
The handmade pillow by KD Mae features the Long Beach zip code, and another version features its geographic coordinates.
The shop also sells Driftless Studios drink mugs, which come in a variety of colors and say "The Real Housewives of Long Beach" in shiny silver, a playful nod to the TV franchise. Mugs are seasonal and renewed each summer, perfect for nearby beaches and boardwalks.
And there's a tote bag with handles, perfect for summer activities, called "Long Beach, NY" by Resbury Me Green.
These stars have only scratched the surface. Codfish Cowboy stocks shelf after rack of unique greeting cards, artwork, memorabilia, jewelery and clothing, with new items being added regularly.
Skudin, who is originally from Oklahoma, moved to Long Beach with his family several years ago.
"It's so important these days to represent where you come from," he says. "Everyone wants a sense of belonging." For more information: 162 E. Park Ave., Long Beach; thecodfishcowboy.com; 516-442-5500
