essentials: serving downtown northampton, MA since 1985

Essentials is a dynamic retail store that has been part of downtown Northampton, Massachusetts since 1985.  It began as a home furnishings store and has evolved over the years into an exciting lifestyle boutique.  A department store without the departments, we sell all the elements necessary for contemporary life under one roof.  We pride ourselves in selling the best in hand and machine-made products produced both internationally and locally with respect to the roots and history of mid-century modern design.  We set ourselves apart from other shops in our dedication to melding aesthetically innovative design that is fairly traded and environmentally sustainable all while being financially accessible and built to last.

Essentials aims to provide an experience that customers want to be a part of.  Gifts and giving create an environment of generosity and joy, and we love spending quality time helping a customer make creative decisions. Whether consulting on wedding invitations, the purchase of quality furniture, giving advice on the perfect baby shower gift or sending customers out the door with a perfectly wrapped package time in Essentials is meant to be pleasurable and exciting.  We love classics and innovations and enjoy sharing both with customers.  We're hoping that you find this site to be an extension of that excitement. 

Here at Essentials, we not only operate as a retail store, but we also work hard to create a community experience.  Whether it be one-on-one consultations for custom wedding invitations or hosting an afternoon craft class for kids and adults, we rely on our customers to engage with us on a personal and creative level.  We look forward to holiday card-making crafts, stamping projects and other events here at 88 Main Street.  Keep an eye on our events page and blog for upcoming happenings!

images taken by Colette Katsikas.

New Location: Essentials has moved to a new location at 108 Main Street! Still located in downtown Northampton, Massachusetts, we are only 5 doors up from our previous location. We have a bright, new, sunny spot and are very happy to be a sharing a space with Strada Shoes. Come and visit!