Somers Top Business Nominee: HodgePodge Gifts & Upscale Resale

SOMERS, CT — Earlier this week, Ellington-Somers Patch asked readers to nominate their favorite local business for Business of the Year. Many area businesses have managed to navigate the turbulence of 2020 with steadfast determination and an unwavering commitment to the clients they serve.

After selling products online for nearly two decades, Pamela McAllister opened a storefront at 20 Vasalie Rd. in Somers on Oct. 1. Known as HodgePodge Gifts & Upscale Resale, the shop features a little bit of everything: seasonal gifts, clothing, jewelry, toys, books, dinnerware - you name it, it's likely to be there. If not, it may be next week, as inventory is constantly being added.

McAllister said, "I am green conscious, selling gently used items to keep them out of the landfill. We are also COVID conscious - cleaning all the time!"

Customers of the store had numerous glowing comments about the shop; some excerpts are published here.

• "Pam is a wonderful person with a passion for finding unique and one-of-a-kind items. I love that she keeps so many of these treasured items out of our landfills and gets them into the hands of people who will love them again and give them new life." - Dawn Ortiz
• "Amazing variety of items and outstanding customer service. My favorite place to shop in Somers." - Travis Lariviere
• "Hardworking owner of a new business while also juggling personal challenges. Always upbeat and ready to help others. Great selection and excellent business model, deserves to be showcased to help get the word out." - Jenny Regan
• "Pam has always given personable and professional customer service. She enjoys seeking treasures so she can reconnect people with their memories. Her business saves items from our landfills and passes happiness to others. I have been a peer with Pam for over four years. She is a supporter and cheerleader for small business and how a small business can provide for one's family. Her social media presence has always been an encouragement to me to continue to strive to be a better business owner. Pam works hard at being the best she can be to continue to support her family and her community. I believe Pam and her business will be an excellent choice for business of the year. Her business skills combined with creativity for display and marketing and her sincere appreciation for her customers is a role model and mentor in the small business arena." - Rhonda Kelley
• "Pam is one of the most motivated, outgoing and creative small business owners I've ever met. She doesn't hesitate to turn those talents to helping other small business owners. I'd love to see her recognized for HodgePodge Gifts & Upscale Resale, as well as for her drive to build community among small business owners, whether their shops are "brick & mortar" or virtual." - Allison Whyte

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