Celebrating Wellbeing and Community: Maine's Small Businesses

MK Kitchen - Gorham, Maine

Maine is known for its picturesque landscapes, coastal towns, and small businesses that contribute to the state's unique culture.

These enterprises, ranging from fitness studios to artisanal shops, play a crucial role in the state's economy and community spirit. In recognition of National Small Business Day, we spotlight these unique establishments and their contributions, emphasizing their alignment with health, nutrition, and community wellbeing.

 
Hustle and Flow Studio, Portland ME

Located in the heart of Portland, Hustle and Flow is a boutique fitness studio that offers a variety of classes. From high-energy dance cardio and strength training to more meditative practices like yoga, the studio has something for everyone. With a welcoming and supportive environment, Hustle and Flow Studio is a great place to try out.

 

Artemis Plus-Size Resale is a consignment shop located in South Portland that specializes in clothing and accessories for plus-size women. They offer a curated selection of gently used items in a range of styles and sizes, making fashion accessible for all.

 
Maine Mother + Co

Maine Mother + Company, located in Brunswick, offers classes and services for expectant and new mothers. Their services include a variety of therapeutic modalities and childbirth education, making it a one-stop shop for all your motherhood needs. Find Amanda there on Mondays and Fridays!

 

Cultivating Community is a Portland-based nonprofit organization that works to promote sustainable agriculture and community development in Maine. They offer a variety of programs and services, including community gardens, youth education, and a food hub that connects local farmers with consumers. By supporting Cultivating Community, you're not just supporting a business but also contributing to a sustainable future.

 
Print Bookstore

Print is a charming little bookstore located in Portland. They specialize in carefully curated books and unique gifts. The store is cozy and inviting, with shelves full of books that are arranged in a way that makes you want to spend hours browsing. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, always happy to help you find the perfect book or gift.

 

6. Root to Rise & KORU PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDIOS - A Path to Empowerment and Healing

Root to Rise & Koru are both Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy studios in the Portland area. This type of physical therapy focuses on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which can be helpful for a variety of conditions, including urinary incontinence, digestive concerns, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. During therapy, a trained physical therapist will work with you to identify areas of weakness in your pelvic floor muscles and develop a personalized exercise program to help you improve your strength and control.

 
Near and Native

Near & Native creates handmade candles using all-natural ingredients. Their candles are made with a blend of coconut wax and essential oils, giving them a clean and natural scent. Their candles come in a range of scents, from lavender and lemongrass to sandalwood and cedarwood. Near & Native's candles can be found in shops throughout Maine, as well as online.

 
Fork Food Lab

Fork Food Lab in Portland is a shared kitchen and food business incubator that provides a space for small food businesses to create and sell their products. They also host community events and classes on food and cooking, making it a great place to connect with like-minded individuals.

 

Greener Postures is a yoga studio located in South Portland and Falmouth. (A special mention to CV Wellbeing dietitian Janet Steady, who teaches at the South Portland location!) At Greener Postures, students can enjoy a variety of yoga classes, including vinyasa, hot yoga, restorative, and yin. The studio also offers specialized workshops and events, such as beginner workshops and meditation classes. Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, Greener Postures offers a unique and inspiring experience that combines connection to your body with mindfulness.

 
Sarah Madeira Day

Sarah Madeira Day is an artist based in Portland who creates beautiful and unique art pieces. Her work is inspired by the natural beauty of the state, with a focus on the ocean and the changing seasons. Her art can be found in galleries and shops throughout Maine, and she also has an online store where you can purchase her pieces.

 
The Honey Exchange

The Honey Exchange in Portland sells various honey and beeswax products, beekeeping supplies, and educational resources. They also offer workshops and classes, making it a perfect place to learn more about the art of beekeeping and sustainability.

 
Cee & She Pottery

Cee & She Pottery creates beautiful, handmade ceramics. Located in Portland, their pieces are made with care and attention to detail, with each piece being unique. They offer a range of products, from mugs and bowls to vases and planters.

 
Scratch Baking Co

Scratch Baking Company in South Portland uses locally sourced ingredients to create a variety of breads, pastries, and desserts. They also offer classes and workshops on baking and pastry-making.

 

Six Branches Family Acupuncture offers acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, and gua sha to promote healing and well-being in Portland. The center is dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient, using the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine to address a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, depression, and digestive disorders.

 
Blanche and Mimi

Blanche & Mimi is a boutique home decor store located in Portland's Old Port. This charming shop features an array of unique and stylish home decor items, from vintage-inspired furniture to eclectic home accents.

 
MK Kitchen

MK Kitchen is a restaurant located in Gorham that offers a diverse and exciting menu catering to different palates. From appetizers to entrees to desserts, MK Kitchen serves everything with an artistic flair and an eye for detail. Some of the popular dishes at MK Kitchen include lobster cones, handmade ravioli, panko-crusted local haddock, and duck confit.

 
Erin Flett

Erin Flett is a textile designer based in Gorham. She creates beautiful, hand-printed textiles that are both stylish and functional. Her designs are inspired by the natural beauty of Maine, with bold colors and patterns that are sure to make a statement in any home.

As we celebrate these small businesses, we recognize their contribution to Maine's health, nutrition, and community. At CV Wellbeing, we're committed to supporting local enterprises and integrating their offerings into our holistic approach to health. If you’re seeking nutritional guidance that incorporates local, sustainable practices, our team of dietitians is here to assist.

Contact us to explore how you can support local businesses while nurturing your health and wellbeing.

 

Written by Alison Swiggard, MS, RDN, LD, dietitian at CV Wellbeing

Alison Swiggard, MS, RDN, LD

Alison is an Intuitive Eating and HAES®-aligned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist focused on making healthcare a more inclusive space for bodies of all sizes. She strives to make clients feel supported in a safe, judgment-free space while providing an individualized approach to nutrition counseling.

https://www.cvwellbeing.com/alisonswiggard
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