Life tends to get busier in the Fall. One glance at the average household’s calendar will reveal how much we get to be like those squirrels darting around – easily double and triple-booked this time of year. So, it makes good sense that we might look to local businesses to cut through a few of the things on our to-do lists and lighten our loads.
To do so, we need not travel far. Here are a few we think deserve more attention:
West Haven Computer Repair – 541 Campbell Ave. Walk in across from City Hall with your broken computer or phone screen or a cord that’s missing, and they’ll make your devices usable again, affordably. No need to be annoyed or embarrassed if you break your screens a lot. In no time at all it’ll be like it never happened, and you can walk out with a protective cover on your phone to prevent another incident. The owner operates a cash-only business, but thoughtfully provides an ATM on the premises.
Cameo Cleaners – 441 Campbell Ave. Nothing piles up like laundry! When it gets to be too much, keep in mind that this business offers a Wash-Fold-Dry service. One Google reviewer writes, “I tried them because I was unable to do it myself. They were wonderful, very nice and returned my things neatly washed, folded and clean. The prices are great and so are the people that own it. I am more than satisfied with the service they provide to me.”
Of course Cameo does traditional dry-cleaning, too. If you prepay for your cleaning they take 20% off the total charge. They specialize in hard-to-clean items. One customer reported that his scuffed suede shoes were made like new, at a fraction of what he estimated he would have spent in New Haven. In addition, Cameo expertly handles custom-tailoring and alterations.
Paw Prints Dog Grooming – 29 Wagner Place. It’s not just us humans who started to look shaggy during quarantine! Happily for dog owners, this business successfully reopened in May thanks to great reviews, a convenient location near Stop and Shop, and a loyal following. Denise and Katlyn are known for taking their time to understand specific wishes and cater to the grooming needs of various breeds, large and small. From Great Danes to Chihuahuas, they certainly do not apply a one-size-fits-all approach! The dogs seem relaxed and happy when they get picked up, which is an important indicator – perhaps most important. Bonus: the clientele appreciate learning about new products and trends in dog-grooming because this business stays so knowledgeable. PS: Paw Prints takes Sundays and Mondays off, returning calls on Tuesday.
Gatisonella Bakery – 19 Wagner Place. Whether you want to treat yourself or someone you care about, celebrate a special occasion or get out of baking for that thing you signed up for, this business can help! Brand new on the economic scene in West Haven, the owners had their ribbon cutting over the summer and seem to be off to a strong start.
New seasonal cupcake flavors are being developed all the time, so feel free to give your input. Other products include brownies, cannoli and pudding in convenient individual sizes or trays if you order ahead. A little-known fact is that there is a coffee pot in the corner for complimentary self-serve for customers, a welcome alternative to drive-throughs where you might run into someone you know or get to meet a new neighbor. All in all, stopping here is the bright, sweet spot in a lot of people’s days.
More next time.