Gardening is not as easy as Martha Stewart makes it look. I have four healthy kids, one rambunctious dog, and two spoiled bearded dragons. I'm great at taking care of people and animals... but plants? Even the tiny succulent I purchased from Trader Joe's has seen better days.
I'm not alone; gardening is hard. It takes hard work and diligence. It takes practice and patience. It's one of those pastimes that's so ubiquitous that it has to be easy, right? For folks looking to (ahem) grow their green thumbs in Indianapolis, Indiana, it *is* as easy, thanks to Victoria Chantel and her Botanical Bar. This boutique specialty plant shop operated as a pop-up for two years before putting down roots at 1103 N College Avenue in Indianapolis, Indiana. Step inside, and you'll be transported into an oasis full of affordable houseplants, seasonal gardening supplies, and endless inspiration.
Interested to learn about other unique American small businesses? Our Small Business Spotlight series highlights the often-overlooked work of small business owners across the country, from Maine to Southern California.
In popular culture, the neighborhood bookstore is a common trope that conjures up feelings of coziness and comfort. Simply put, books – and by extension, bookshops – just make people feel good.
"My mother was a hairdresser; she would burn my forehand and tell me to go pick off the tip of the aloe plant and put it on my burned skin – that's when I realized the healing power of plants."
This seed of inspiration from her childhood blossomed during the pandemic, when people turned to nature en masse.
Chantel, already familiar with the curative power of nature, had resigned from corporate America and gone through a farming program.
"While locked down, I became inspired to launch The Botanical Bar after visiting local plant shops," she says. But every successful small business owner will tell you that they need more than mere inspiration; they need a why -- a raison d'être. And for Chantel, it was representation.
The thing about these local businesses was that none of the owners looked like her. Chantel, "not seeing anyone who looked like me working or owning the stores," had her why.
As a Black woman, Chantel says she "wanted to provide a safe space for people of color to connect over the love of plants and inspire our community by creating an oasis that brings people closer to nature through indoor plants and urban farming."
Selling high-quality, affordable houseplants and gardening supplies was only one part of the equation. Chantel had much bigger plans; namely, she wanted to "alter the face of the horticulture industry."
And so in 2022, after success at local pop-ups, Chantel opened The Botanical Bar's brick-and-mortar shop at 1103 N College Avenue in Indianapolis, Indiana.
To call The Botanical Bar a "plant shop" doesn't capture the soul of what this small business truly is: it's a beautifully curated botanical boutique that's infused with color and art; it's a boundary-breaking business that's become a cornerstone of its community.
Because Chantel doesn't merely want to sell plants; she wants to set folks up with the tools they need for gardening greatness while also providing an education in the healing power of the natural world.
"Our workshops, especially those centered around wellness, plant care, and mental health, have fostered connections and nurtured personal growth," she says.
In addition, the shop's unique services, like repotting houseplants, and its commitment to products made by women and women of color, set The Botanical Bar apart.
"In our first year alone, we've helped hundreds of people bring nature into their lives, and we've been overwhelmed with support from our community," says Chantel.
Chantel adds that she attribute the shop's success to its "authenticity, deep-rooted community engagement, and the undeniable passion behind what we do."
But she's humble, because the most crucial part of The Botanical Bar's success is Victoria Chantel – a plant-loving, boundary-breaking, community-minded visionary who's growing great things in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Many thanks to Victoria Chantel for sharing the inspiring story of Botanical Bar. Learn more and support this incredible Indianapolis business by visiting the Botanical Bar website and brick-and-mortar shop at 1103 N College Avenue -- and be sure to follow this Indiana business on Facebook and Instagram, too!
Of course, Botanical Bar is one of many amazing businesses in Indiana that’s doing great things in the state. If you have another local business you’d like to see profiled on Only In Indiana, please nominate them for a chance to be featured. And be sure to follow Only In Indiana on Facebook and Instagram to stay to in the know about the Hoosier State’s events, restaurants, local businesses, and hidden gems!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
There are certain places that not only stand the test of time, they triumph the test of time. Cataract General Store is one of those rare and magical places. The small-town general store has been serving the fine folks of Spencer, Indiana, since 1860, making it the oldest general store in the Hoosier State. It's also one of the most beloved small businesses in Indiana, a place where generations of Hoosiers have generously supported and patronized. Superlatives aside, what makes Cataract General Store so special isn't marketing gimmicks or a flashy social media presence; but rather, a commitment to community and customer service, to championing local businesses over big-box retailers, and to the natural beauty and historic legacy of the small town in Indiana it calls home.
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Interested to learn about other unique American small businesses? Our Small Business Spotlight series highlights the often-overlooked work of small business owners across the country, from Maine to Southern California.
Spencer, Indiana, is a tiny-but-mighty town of 2,400 that's just 17 minutes from Bloomington, but feels decidedly "small-town" and old fashioned.
The town is perhaps best-known as home to Cataract Falls, the largest waterfall in Indiana by volume and largely considered the "best" and most beautiful waterfall in the state.
Cataract Falls is the titular feature of the state's Cataract Falls Recreation Area, an area that includes babbling Mill Creek and the charming and historic Cataract Falls Covered Bridge.
A place that's truly the sum of its parts, this destination is teeming with natural beauty and whimsy -- two descriptors that could easily be said of Spencer, Indiana, as well.
Because nestled in this sleepy little town, you'll find Cataract General Store, the oldest general store in Indiana, and arguably the most charming, too!
This general store opened its doors in 1860, making it nearly 165 years old. "This store was built the year Abraham Lincoln was elected," say owners Scott and Catherine Kuntz. "The walls have absorbed departures and returns of soldiers since the Civil War. They have seen over 16 decades of tears, joys, celebrations, gossip, developing news, births, and deaths. If only walls could talk!"
To fully understand the story of this store, a little history lesson is in order. "At one time, Cataract was a small but thriving village, having a doctor, two blacksmith shops, three stores, a number business, grist mill, horse track, and a resort at Cataract Falls that included cabins and an inn with dining and a bandstand with swimming and fishing at the Lower Falls," explain the owners.
They continue that "a spur of the Monon Railroad brought visitors" to the area, but wen automobiles boomed and passenger trains declined, most of these small towns slowly dried up.
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In Cataract, Indiana, however, the falls brought in enough traffic to keep the store afloat, and over the years, it established itself a community cornerstone of Spencer, Indiana.
"We live a few doors down from the store and went there often," say the Kuntzes, who became friends with owners Wayne and Karen Snyder. "After Wayne passed, Karen ran the store alone until she decided to retire. We had no plan of buying it, but hoped someone would [buy it] and save the building before it became too dilapidated to repair." When Snyder decided to auction the property, the Kuntzes went to the auction "just being nosy. When we learned none of the bidders had interest in the property, nor intentions on preserving the store itself, we threw in a bid and, surprise, surprise, found ourselves to be the new owners of the oldest general store in the state!"
Taking the reigns of such a historic and beloved business was a task for which the Kuntzes found themselves surprisingly well prepared.
Having known and loved the general store for so many years, they understood the personal connections so many had to the shop. "Meeting so many customers who have also become dear friends and seeing their children grow up before our eyes... we have many multi-generational families who have memories of this store going back decades," muse the owners.
As such, it was important for the Kuntzes to maintain the historic spirit of the store, from stocking old-timey candies and retro games to keeping prices accessible and affordable.
However, the store's continued success is only possible because of the unwavering support of the community, say the owners. "The development of box chain stores changed the market for Mom & Pop stores, crushing many and leaving others scrambling to adapt. Internet business killed off many more [...] We have been lucky that the [Cataract] Falls have kept the store afloat, but we fear that the stores days are numbered -- no individually owned Mom & Pop can compete with the chain stores," they say.
The couple doesn't let fear stand in their way, though. As small business owners, the Kuntzes are certainly leaving an indelible mark on this 160-year-old store: "We turned the Depression Era, WPA-built outhouse into the Cataract Little Free Library and we hold as many community events as we can, such as Music Nights where everyone is welcome to participate or just listen," they explain.
The couple also regularly goes on "litter patrol to clean up roadside trash and litter in the park [...] and donates free native flower seeds and starts to anyone who wants them." They also make a point to donate cash or prize items to local events.
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Small businesses like Cataract General Store are an endangered species that depend on community support and dedicated patronage -- even a place as established and historic as this. So the next time you find yourself driving to Cataract Falls Recreation Area by way of Spencer, Indiana, plan to stop at this small business stalwart.
By shopping here, you're not only taking part in the store's 160+ year old story, but you're supporting a wholly wonderful and worthy small business in Indiana.
Many thanks to Scott & Catherine Kuntz, owners of Cataract General Store, for sharing the story of their longstanding Indiana shop. Learn more by visiting Cataract General Store on Facebook... or, you know, the old-fashioned way: in person at 2799 S Cataract Rd, Spencer, IN, 47460!
Of course, Cataract General Store is one of many amazing and longstanding local businesses in Indiana that’s doing great things in the state. If you have another local business you’d like to see profiled on Only In Indiana, please nominate them for a chance to be featured.
And be sure to follow Only In Indiana on Facebook and Instagram to stay to in the know about the Hoosier State’s events, restaurants, local businesses, and hidden gems!
