The holiday season has arrived in Southern Oregon. There are houses adorned with colorful lights, festive music playing in the stores, the alluring aroma of cinnamon, and communities filled with holiday cheer.
The Rogue Valley has endured a couple of difficult years because of the wildfires and pandemic, and now is a great time to show your support for the community. When you’re shopping, please consider these local businesses which were affected by the Almeda Fire.
Simple Machine Winery
After being destroyed in the Almeda Fire, Simple Machine Winery has been rebuilt and is open to the public again. The tasting room is open Wednesday – Sunday from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Their honest, bold and delicious wines are a beautiful expression of the local vineyards. Simple Machine’s wines go through minimal intervention in the cellar and a native yeast fermentation, which creates a sense of place in every varietal. If you’re looking for a few bottles for friends, or a wine club membership for yourself, a visit to Simple Machine Winery is a must.
Incense on the Way
The diverse and fragrant aromas of incense can transform your mood, and the feeling of an entire room. Incense on the Way sells a variety of incense from India and around the world on their website.
The fragrance from incense can immediately change how you feel and help you relax. It could also remind you of another time, place or special occasion, bringing back pleasant memories just from experiencing a similar scent. In a matter of seconds, incense creates a different atmosphere, which makes it a wonderful holiday gift.
Dragon Crystals Rock Shop
Dragon Crystals was previously located in Talent on Highway 199. The Almeda Fire destroyed their storefront, but it wasn’t long before the owners found a new business home just up the road in Phoenix. Their diverse selection of crystals and rocks is well worth a visit — and your rock hound friends will appreciate having something new to add to their collection.
More Fire Affected Businesses
The holidays are not the only time to support our local business community. Businesses from many different industries were impacted by the Almeda Fire. Below is a partial list of businesses that are continuing to operate and serve our community.
- AA Insulation
- Alternative Energy Systems
- Green Valley Pump
- Infostructure
- Naturalyards
- Sunday Afternoons
- The Barber Shop
- Flower of Life Crystal’s Warehouse
- Body in Context
Shop Local, Support Your Town
Small businesses are more than storefronts. They are the heart of our community, run by our families, friends and neighbors. Whether it’s a father and daughter bringing their dream to life, a husband and wife duo, or an up-and-coming entrepreneur, each business has a unique story to tell. And when you shop at these businesses, you are supporting their dreams and helping the local community to thrive, grow, and have a long, successful future.