The historic village of Glenarm has welcomed not one, but two new businesses in the last weeks much to the delight of local residents and visitors alike.
Full of charm and beauty, the village is a popular spot for the many thousands of visitors who traverse the famous Causeway Coastal Route each year.
Now all can enjoy stopping in at Moonwater Crystal where a wide variety of products are on offer to meet the holistic needs of any individual. Cove coffee shop is the second newest addition that will no doubt become a central part in the life of the community.
Moonwater Crystal provides an eclectic mix of artisan goodies as collated by Carrie the shop owner.
“My vision for Moonwater Crystal is to provide a welcoming where people can come for all their holistic needs, from crystals, candles and incense to loose leaf teas, aromatherapy, and natural skincare products, with some jewellery and local artwork added into the mix too,” said Carrie.
“I stock mainly hand crafted, eco friendly, and local goods where possible, with the aim of celebrating and supporting the wonderful local small businesses and talented creators that we have in Northern Ireland. I hope to provide a place that helps others balance their mind, body and spirit, and make holistic products available to as many people as possible.”
”At the back of the shop is a small but comfy seated area, our little snug, where people can come hang out and share their interests while sampling a cup of herbal tea or locally sourced coffee. Somewhere to sit and relax and perhaps borrow a book from our holistic library too.”
Carrie added:
“I fell in love with this village the first time I visited, it has such a beautiful energy about it and the people are so lovely and welcoming. I hope that I can share that experience with everyone who visits my little blue corner of Glenarm, a celebration of all things magical, mystical, holistic and handmade!”
The village’s second addition - Cove - a coffee shop opened at 2 Castle Street, sits at the foot of Glenarm’s 900 acre forest and picturesque Barbican Gate.
Erica who launched the business stated:
“We've always been in love with the charm of Glenarm which claims to be one of the oldest towns in Ulster having been noted in the charter from the 12th century. Its a very colourful village, filled with lots of unique architecture with walls heaving with history and nostalgia. It has a feeling of being untouched, especially with the backdrop of Glenarm Castle itself.
“Besides the beauty of both the Causeway Coastal route and the Glens of Antrim, it was really the forest that drew us here. We would disappear into it for hours with our children and dogs.
“It is pure escapism and managed very well by Ulster wildlife. It is also an excellent place to responsibility forage wild garlic. We felt a coffee shop nearby would offer a welcome pitstop for explorers and add to the experience of a Glenarm visit.”
Mayor Geraldine Mulvenna recently visited both businesses and was excited to see and welcome the new additions to Glenarm!
Both Carrie and Erica said they are delighted to be playing their part to bring new life into the heart of this beautiful village.