You may have picked up by now that I am an unconventional shopper. My philosophy is that if everyone shopped at the same places, we will all have the same things, and where is the fun in that?

So whether it is shopping for clothes or for items to accompany your New Year resolutions, I encourage you to look at smaller places that often hide unique treasures that will have you (or your home) gleaming with uniqueness.

On a recent trip to Wood’s Family Pharmacy on Highway 31 in Pelham, I found myself stunned at the selection! This pharmacy is what I consider one of those one-stop shops; from coffee to medicine, snacks to gift items, they have it all.

And that includes “Mud Pie” brand items that are just the right mix of adorable and girly and perfect to aid you in starting your new year off right.

If your resolution this New Year is to organize your mess of a make-up drawer, may I suggest the set of quilted zippered pouches that read “Some days are a total waste of makeup.”

Or perhaps after the gift-giving of the holidays, you have resolved to treat yourself for once.

There are adorable “fill-in-the-blank” glasses and coasters that are sure to be a hit at your next party. The items range in price from $6-$18 so they are wallet-friendly for the New Year.

While you’re there, be on the lookout for other resolutions that can be fulfilled at this one-stop shop. Some examples from my resolution list are vitamins to restore your body after the binging of the holidays, stationary to keep in touch with relatives and friends; an array of kitchen supplies to get me in the cooking mood; and items like monogram trinket plates for entertaining guests at home.

As the New Year quickly creeps upon us, make an early resolution to prepare now. Compose your resolutions and stick to them. And may I suggest some unconventional shopping to help conquer your toughest resolutions and get you in the right frame of mind for a stylish New Year!

Jessica Vance can be reached by e–mail at jvance86@hotmail.com.