As the year draws to a close and the days grow darker, our shop at Dancing Willow Herbs transforms into a warm hearth for the community. Nestled in the charming downtown of Durango, Colorado, our apothecary is a gathering place where locals and visitors can find handcrafted herbal products to gift their loved ones. We specialize in herbal tinctures, teas, bath & body products, all made in the lab in the back of our apothecary. Here, surrounded by the medicinal plants, we create an inviting atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the season.
While our business thrives year-round from our local community, the holiday season brings a unique intensity that we embrace wholeheartedly. When we take on new employees, who grow accustomed to the relaxed rhythm of day to day in the apothecary, it is with great emphasis that we try to covey- the holidays are a completely different beast.
Our herbalists in the front of the shop juggle customer interactions, online orders, bottling and labeling product. Meanwhile, our dedicated medicine maker often stays late to ensure our shelves remain stocked with all of our products. For me, the season involves managing marketing, planning events, and providing hands-on support wherever needed.
As cold and flu season coincides with holiday festivities, we find ourselves not only facilitating gift shopping but also tending to the health needs of our community. In many ways, we become modern day elves, making medicinal gifts, spreading cheer and keeping everyone healthy!
Being someone who honors the cycles of the Earth and the wheel of the year, it used to always feel like a juxtaposition- navigating our busiest season while also yearning for the slowness & rest offered by the darkest days. Yet, the traditions surrounding the winter solstice celebrate the return of the light, encouraging joy, connection and generosity. This season offers a beautiful opportunity to be able to spread our handmade herbal products, which will genuinely help people, during the sacred dark of winter.
To sustain our energy and calm our nervous systems during the holiday push, we incorporate nervines and adaptogens into our daily routines. Herbs like Milky Oats, Skullcap, Motherwort, Reishi, Shatavari and Ashwagandha make their way into our favorite formulas, festive drinks and even holiday cookies! We curate a soothing atmosphere at the apothecary, favoring smooth jazz over the relentless stream of classic Christmas music. And when we can, we steal moments to wander through the winter magic of nature, grounding ourselves amid the hustle.
One of our favorite events in Durango is “Noel Nite,” held on the first Friday of December. This evening celebrates small local businesses, drawing the community downtown for a vibrant night of shopping and connection. We always look forward to this event, serving up herbal cocktails and mocktails like Medicinal Mushroom White Russians and Extra Medicinal Mulled Wine, alongside a charcuterie board. Noel Nite is not only a crucial financial boost for us; it allows us to engage with our community, give back and have fun while we are doing it!
During the ever increasing commercialization of the holiday season, it is vital to support small businesses. By choosing local, you receive higher-quality products while uplifting individuals and families who work hard to bring their creations into the world. Our small team of 5 celebrates and cherishes our customers as friends. We infuse every aspect of our work with sweetness and care, from making the product to labeling the product to boxing up your orders to having conversations to educate you on what is the best fit.
As you navigate gifting, we invite you to consider the impact of your choices. Supporting small herbal businesses not only gifts wellness but also fosters a deeper connection to the plants and the people who care for them. We hope this perspective inspires you to seek out and support small herbal businesses during this holiday season.