When was the last time you stopped by the Greenwich Exchange for Women’s Work? Or maybe you’re one of the folks who uses Sherwood as a shortcut to get to Maple or North Street?
The charming shop, housed inside a house that dates back to 1900 has had a recent facelift and a host of creative new inventory.
The Greenwich Exchange for Women’s Work is a unique gift shop which operates on a consignment basis for crafty women.
In fact, 200+ artisan-consignors receive 67% of the selling price for their wares. The Exchange not only provides a retail venue for vendors who consign their crafts and wares, but to the uninitiated, the enterprise is a reliable resource for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Modestly priced, the handmade gifts defy the imagination, filling room after room with options displayed attractively and without clutter.
Incorporated in 1901, the Greenwich Exchange became a charter member of the Federation of Woman’s Exchanges in 1936. Launched at a time when women were largely excluded from the workplace and providing “a shop where ‘genteel poor’ women could earn money by consigning their home-made, hand-crafted items,” the Greenwich Exchange perseveres while others have closed.
Defying changing economic forces and the array of 21st century opportunities for women in the workforce, the Exchange may have come full circle. While staying true to its roots, the operation offers patrons a way to shop local and support small businesses.
Don’t forget to check out the antiques cottage in a separate, equally charming building across a gravel courtyard out back.
The Greenwich Exchange for Women’s work is open Monday through Friday from 10:00am until 4:00pm.
The shop is located at 28 Sherwood Place. Tel (203) 869-0229
