Superior Goods + Superior Coffee

Nested on 4th Street in Downtown Troy, NY stands a beautiful space filled with curated items thoughtfully chosen as well as amaing coffee and food. It was a happy accident, coming across Superior Merchandise Company. My husband (who was then my boyfriend at the time) wanted to find a new spot to try out but stay local. We enjoy supporting local businesses in our small city of Troy and I had chosen this small, interesting coffee shop.

Walking into the establishment, what grabbed my attention immediately was the adorably planned out curated gift shop in the front of the space. There were such an amazing amount of items that ranged from cute coin purses, handmade candles, and locally made jewelry. Superior merchandise, indeed.

I'm known as an avid coffee drinker, so it was natural of me to choose their cappuccino to enjoy. We drifted down through their seating area - quaint tables with small bundles of wild flowers centered neatly on each, illustrations on a large floating shelf with greenery flowing along the way. We ended up sitting outside on their newly rennovated patio space. Once we stepped outside, I felt transported again to a bright and beautiful space filled with greenery and smiling staff who brought us our beverages. I suddenly had a sense that we were anywhere else but in our small city of Troy, New York.

Before leaving, I made it a point to browse their items that were carefully picked and placed in a way that reminded me of photography, a piece of art. It gave me a sense of wonder, how someone can pick so much of a diverse amount of items to display, from jewelry to handmade cards, candles and more, but the way they were placed about seemed to make sense. What caught my attention was how well everything flowed from one piece to the other. It was curated with care, showing support to local vendors and small artists around the area. I ended up not wanting to leave. I felt this overwhelming sense of calm, a feeling of belonging there that I very rarely get anywhere else than my own apartment.

It has since been two years of going to Superior Merchandise Company and each time I step into that space I find myself smiling instantly. Staffed with friendly, welcoming faces, a positive atmosphere that gives me a refreshing thought to create more with my photography. Most importantly, to not be afraid to express myself creatively. There is a sense of acceptance, something that I strongly believe should radiate throughout our small city.

Superior goods, superior coffee, superior people.