A Celebration of Bennington’s Gift Garden & The Gift Garden’s Holiday Cottage
Right in the heart of downtown Bennington, where community spirit meets small-town charm, there are storefronts that have become a year-round destination for joy, creativity, and meaningful connections. At The Gift Garden and The Gift Garden’s Holiday Cottage, co-owners Beth and Dwain Wilwol have created more than retail spaces—they’ve cultivated places where every season is celebrated and every customer is treated like family.
Founded in 1976, The Gift Garden is a beloved florist and gift shop with deep roots in Bennington. Over the years, it’s grown into a trusted part of life in Vermont’s first town, a place to find the perfect bouquet for a birthday, sympathy tribute, anniversary, or just to brighten someone’s day. Known for personalized service and professional in-house floral designers, the shop takes pride in helping customers celebrate life’s most important moments with flowers that feel just right.
“We love what we do,” says Beth Wilwol. “We love making people happy.”
And that joy is contagious. From fresh-cut floral arrangements and lush plants to gourmet baskets and carefully chosen gifts, The Gift Garden is a reminder that shopping in person, and shopping local, adds warmth and intention to every gesture.
Just a block away at 101 South Street, the Wilwols have expanded their signature magic with The Gift Garden’s Holiday Cottage, a year-round Christmas and gift boutique that delights both locals and visitors. Inside, the smell of pine, twinkle lights, and a stunning 12-foot Christmas tree greet you no matter the month. From Old World ornaments to handcrafted treasures and playful holiday décor, The Holiday Cottage makes it possible to celebrate Christmas all year round.
“People come in the door and they smile,” says Dwain. “And the majority say that it’s really cool to have Christmas all year long.”
“Half the store is Christmas all year,” Beth adds, “and the other half changes with the season.”
Holiday Cottage is more than just tinsel and nostalgia, though—it’s an extension of Bennington’s creative, welcoming spirit. Seasonal home décor, baby gifts, puzzles, candles, plush toys, and charming Vermont-themed souvenirs fill the shop. From festive snow globes to locally inspired ornaments, there’s something here to help you mark a memory, celebrate a milestone, or just indulge in some feel-good shopping.
“We believe in seeing and touching the items,” Beth says. “You really need to come in.”
Whether you’re stopping by for a floral arrangement at The Gift Garden or browsing the latest seasonal finds at The Holiday Cottage, one thing’s certain: you’re supporting a family-owned business that gives back to the town it loves. Beth and Dwain’s dedication to thoughtful service and their passion for bringing beauty into everyday life is what keeps people coming back—again and again.
So next time you’re in Bennington, take a walk down Main Street and South Street. Stroll in and experience a world of fresh flowers, timeless traditions, and the kind of hospitality you’ll only find in a place like this.
The Gift Garden
431 Main Street, Bennington, VT
(802) 447-7222
Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM, Sat 9AM–2PM
www.thegiftgardenvt.com
Holiday Cottage by The Gift Garden
101 South Street, Bennington, VT 05201
Thurs & Mon 11AM–4PM, Fri–Sat 11AM–5PM, Sun 12–4PM
www.holidaycottagevt.com
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