Stuart Hough, Sunnyside Trading Co.

Halfway through October, we find ourselves in the middle of multiple transitions: our days are growing shorter, leaves are changing colors, and the cold air is creeping in, just to name a few. We find ourselves holding on to the last bits of our summer adventures while looking ahead to the festive season. Pumpkin spice has already settled in, and soon, the advent of warm, wooly sweaters and hot cocoa.

Mindful of our tendency to jump ahead to the next thing, Sunnyside has decided to settle in for a bit in this enchanting middle moment, focusing the first of our expanded newsletters, The Bazaar, on the theme of whimsy and delight.

Much like the old bazaars along The Silk Road served as a trading post for caravans, this larger digest serves as an intersection of goods, places, and artisans. In it you will find the spotlight of a fanciful, local Asheville artist (who, by the way, is a dear friend and one of my favorite artists in Asheville), scenes from my travels in Morocco, and a list of my favorite “whimsical” things in our store.

As you move through our newsletter content, we hope that it might spark feelings of whimsy and delight. We also invite you to pause with us and reflect upon what in your life might bring you joy? What can you do (even, if it is small) to incorporate elements of playfulness into your everyday routine? We remain grateful for your support, and as always, would be delighted to see you!