Craft’d welcomes new owner, Laura Faria

Downtown wine shop and artisan boutique, Craft’d, has officially welcomed a new owner, though she’s no stranger to regular customers.

Laura Faria, once a part-time sales associate, has taken the reins with a fresh vision, a deep love for the community, and a commitment to preserving the shop’s eclectic charm.

Faria’s journey to ownership was an organic transition. She brings with her a diverse background as a dental hygienist and real estate professional, but her passion for community and connection led her to this new chapter. Like many businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges and changes for Craft’d, so Faria offered her help.

“I’m a follower of downtown, and when a business needs something ... I sent Maryann a message and said ‘hey, I’d love to help,’” Faria said.

Now, just a few years later, Faria will spearhead a business she deeply admires. The decision to purchase Craft’d wasn’t taken lightly. After a conversation with her husband, the couple spent a full weekend considering the opportunity.

“We knew if we didn’t do it, somebody else would,” Faria said. “And then, if someone else did it, you would always wonder … why didn’t I just do it?”

With a casual conversation over dinner a few months ago, the transfer of ownership paperwork is complete and Faria has officially stepped into her new role.

“I get a warm fuzzy just by the store in general,” she shared. “Owning Craft’d to me means I get to be myself as the driver of a vessel that entertains and supports a social gathering place that many have already expressed needed to stay.”

Her approach to ownership is rooted in authenticity, connection, and a deep appreciation for the space.

While Faria doesn’t plan on making major changes, she does have a few fresh ideas in mind. Merchandise will be slightly rearranged, and a “customer favorites” wine section will be introduced. Wine tastings, a much-missed staple by customers, are making a comeback twice a month.

Faria’s wine preferences? A red wine currently is Meiomi Pinot Noir — chilled. Although people don’t drink red wine chilled, she laughed. Her favorite white is Sea Pearl Sauvignon Blanc.

The new owner credits former owner Maryann as a pivotal figure in her journey.

“I have a lot of respect for Maryann. She is certainly a wonderful mentor and a friend,” Faria said with deep admiration. “I just feel like she can carry on what she does next, knowing that I’ve stepped in to take over what she has done so well.”

“It’s a place that I’ve respected and appreciated for the last two years,” Faria said. “It’s a nice social place. It’s got a great atmosphere, it’s charming and homelike.”

Faria sees Craft’d not just as a business, but as a way to give back.

“As a person who’s been part of this community and this area for 20 years, to be able to now have a space or a storefront downtown on the main drag. It’s pretty special … and I don’t take that for granted.”

“Certainly, it wouldn’t have been something that I was looking for … and yet it was a big reason why I accepted the challenge. I like to plug myself. I like to plug myself into the community. I like to help people be part of this community.”

A recent tasting over Easter weekend saw customers excited both about the return of the events and the news of Faria’s ownership.

On May 15, Craft’d will participate in the local art crawl by featuring a local photographer and a specialty drink. The store also plans to welcome a new vendor, Sprout and Bloom, and will introduce custom gift baskets for purchase. Additionally, Faria plans to hire a new part-time employee soon to help support the growing vision.

Faria offered advice to anyone considering a leap into business ownership.

“You don’t know your full potential until you push yourself to the level you know you’ll get to.”

And in true entrepreneurial spirit, Faria added, “I felt that if I could do it, I should do it.”