So, how’s your new year shaping up so far?

We have to say that we are pretty excited about the possibilities of 2019 – a year that all of us at Maria Luisa are embracing as one of positive change.

We’re firmly powered up by the spirit of fresh starts.

“It’s going to be a year when I personally will be exploring more”

WELCOMING 2019-ML TEAM

Already, the ML Faves for Good team gathered to participate in the Jan. 5 “Resolution Run” to raise funds for the Nyack Hunger Coalition.

And, registration has already begun for our favorite summer event, the team’s participation in the Women’s Distance Festival at Rockland Lake State Park in Congers. This year’s event, the 32^nd, will be held July 13; we hope you’ll participate in the 5K walk/run, cheer us on – or simply make a donation to our team effort to once again support the Center for Safety and Change.

---> REGISTER <--> DONATE <---

LEARN MORE-DONATE

In addition, we look forward to the fifth annual presentation of the ML by Maria Luisa Scholarship this spring, as well as all the community events we will be participating in throughout the year, from street fairs to sidewalk sales, the Halloween parade to the holiday season’s special events. (Check out our frequently updated community calendar for the lineup).

You’ll also notice the fresh start playing out in our shops, as we’ve embraced the new year as a chance to “freshen things up” overall, from new merchandise to new displays. We think you’ll like it; feel free to share your thoughts.

One of last year’s good (very good) things was the introduction of the results of our new collaboration with Nyack-based artist Johanna Goodman. We unveiled the award-winning illustrator’s latest work, an exclusive collection of totes, pillows and shower curtains for Maria Luisa, during our December holiday party and we can share that there’s plenty more, including a special Edward Hopper-inspired bag, pillows and shower curtains so stay tuned.

Plate No.185: Edward Hopper

Also in the shops, we look forward to another year – our own 32^nd – of continued growth and reinvention.

As Maria says, “It’s going to be a year when I personally will be exploring more” – and that’s translating to sourcing new merchandise for the shops from local artists and artisans to taking that search international, literally, as she explores the world in search of fresh finds.

It’s all about inspiration, whether you find it gazing out over the Hudson – or in an artisan’s workshop or a street market halfway across the world.

We can’t wait to see how it all plays out but know it will all be good.

As Maria puts it – in no uncertain terms – “It will be a positive year.”

Who are we to argue?

– Mary Shustack, Maria Luisa newsletter editor.