The Rose Garden
The Rose Garden
Rose Nuszkowski gift shop offers infused glass and other handcrafted treasures
As we get closer to the season of giving, it’s nice to know where one can find unique gifts and beat the madness of the big box stores. Fortunately here in Cattaraugus County, we have quite a few artisans, craftspeople and creative stores at which we can shop with ease and support a local economy, the importance of which is becoming more apparent. Just a couple miles south of Ellicottville in Great Valley, right on Route 219 is just such a place. Rose Nuszkowski, together with her husband, Larry, own, operate and supply their own creations inside the Rose Garden Gift Shop.
Centered around Rose’s fused glass wall hangings, the shop is full of original creations at reasonable prices. Walk in the little showroom and you are surrounded by all sorts of handmade works by the couple. Rose learned to make fused glass pieces from her daughter nearly 20 years ago, and it’s clear in her design she has had the practice to be well versed in the craft. Beautiful floral pieces, geometric designs and fun pictures in a kaleidoscope of colors. They could be hung on a wall, but would be stunning on a window facing the sun, allowing for the light to diffuse the colors onto the walls and floor of the room.
In addition to these pieces, there are also a few beautiful traditional stained glass pieces, some fun and wood cut geometric mosaics of animals, ornaments for the Christmas tree or whatever you see fit, decorative outdoor works of art, and hand-formed copper sculptures of flowers, natural scenes and some creative functional card holders. Rose also offers beautiful cut flowers for sale. If you don’t see what you’re looking for in the storefront, let Rose know who you’re shopping for and what they like - not everything is displayed and maybe she has that special something packed away, as they do craft fairs and show at local events from time-to-time (especially during the fall season).
After meeting the two and chatting for a bit, I can say I am happy to support their creative endeavors and am looking forward to the next time we can catch up; Rose and Larry are kind, humble, hardworking, adventurous and the type of folks you would be honored to have as neighbors. The couple live a modest life but fit in some great adventures around this country, as well as some international travels. Larry has done some scuba dives in a few tropical locations. They have a well rounded view of the world and have met enough different cultured people and shared some experiences outside of the norm, making them fun, interesting and easy to talk to. Drop in sometime soon to take a look at some beautiful art and pick up something unique and beautiful for your home or a loved one, and don’t forget a bouquet for your table. If you’re from the area and have never stopped in, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. Who knows? You might make a friend while you’re browsing.
The shop is located at the Nuszkowski‘s home at 4721 Route 219 in Great Valley and is open Friday 10:00am-4:00pm or you can call 716-345-3886 to make an appointment to drop in another time. They also run an Etsy account at www.etsy.com/shop/RoseGardenofGV where you can browse some of what’s available without having to leave home.