“You’re going to open a store? In the middle of the recession? You’re going to sell Olive Oil and Vinegar? In Canandaigua? Have you lost your mind? What else are you going to sell? Nothing! What??” … then a polite smile and the sympathetic eyes that indicate a thought balloon reading, “You have no idea what you are doing and you’re going to be sorry.” Maybe so, but not yet.
So, yes, this is my newest venture. I am opening a store in Canandaigua where we will, at the start, sell only olive oils and balsamic vinegars; but not just any olive oils and vinegars. Hand crafted, small batch Extra Virgin Olive Oils – single varietals, flavor fused, and flavor infused; Balsamic Vinegars – 12-year old and 18-year old, and flavor infused. What does that mean? Details to follow.
What’s important to explain right now is what makes the store so special. Aside from the beautiful historic space where it is located and the caliber of people who will be working there is the store concept. All the products will be 
lined up in those big beautiful European looking stainless steel containers, called fustis, and every product (and delightful, delicious combinations of products!) will be available for tasting right from the fusti. We will bottle the product in our own branded F. Oliver’s bottles.
We plan to open soon…. in fact in so soon that the long to-do list is starting to keep me awake at night. I have never opened a business before. If you have, then you know that I don’t know what I don’t know. Got that? So, in the upcoming weeks I want to share with you our progress, triumphs, tribulations, and the general story of the birth of F. Oliver’s. AND – I sincerely hope to see you at the store.
I’m sure that it will be amazing because of its owner. I can’t wait to see it!!!!!
You go, girl!
Go for it! If anyone can make a success, you’re the one!
Can’t wait for the Grand Opening. Love to see you and the store soon.
By any chance, will you be carrying beautiful olive themed imported paper napkins and porcelain accessories?
Your website looks great. I, who don’t cook, want to buy some because they look so good! Can’t wait to taste some.
Beautiful website and blog – I can’t wait to see the store open
While I admit to initial skepticism about a shop with such a seemingly limited kind of inventory, after visiting your website and reading your blog, I can’t WAIT for you to open!…and opening a business for the first time may produce just the enthusiasm you need to make this “a go” right from the start. The best of luck to you.
Thanks for checking out the site and blog, Sue! The products are incredible; I can’t wait for you to stop in and try them.
Loved the store – and all the hard work does show.
Anxious to buy my first 2 bottles – already have them selected
All the best, good friend!
Hi Penny.
Happy Easter!
Hoping you are using all of your fabulous products in a scrumptious dinner today.
The photos of your shop look wonderful, and Eric’s cabinets – Wow!
Happy Opening.
Be ready on Monday for a crowd!
Thanks Lane! Same to you : ) Getting bottles tomorrow would be an excellent start. I am so glad that you like the shop.
Penny, I’ll try to start calling you Penelope. A Big Congratulations! Loved your website. It’s enticing and we can’t wait to come.
Great location. I’m forwarding your website to my sister in Calif. because it’s right up her alley and we’ll bring her next time she visits. La
Thank you, Laurie. I look forward to your visit!!!