Get Back to School Ready in Warren County

Blog by Stacha Yundt

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to mean crowded aisles and generic finds at big box stores. This year, skip the stress and shop small! Warren County’s local businesses are filled with unique finds, from classroom essentials to thoughtful teacher gifts, that will make the new school year feel extra special. Here are a few must-stop shops to add to your list:

Blume Home

Located in the heart of historic downtown Lebanon, Blume Home is truly a one-stop shop for all occasions (not that you ever really need an excuse to visit!). Take back-to-school shopping from stressful to special with their eclectic collection. Inside you’ll find sturdy water bottles to keep the kids hydrated during long school days, fun stationary and pens to brighten up homework time and perfect for lunchbox-notes, and plenty of other practical essentials that double as little pick-me-ups.

Looking for something thoughtful for a new teacher? Blume’s collection of unique gift options like candles, cute accessories and home accents are sure to make their first day special too! Parents and students alike will also love the trendy boutique clothing and jewelry, perfect for creating a confident first-day-of-school outfit.

Mulberry St. Books

Fans of Dr. Seuss’ And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street will feel right at home when they step into Mulberry St. Books, a charming second-hand shop nestled in downtown Lebanon (and yes, it really is on Mulberry Street!). The shelves are lined with stories of every genre and reading level, making it the perfect stop for students stocking up on independent reading material for the year ahead.

Beyond the books, the shop also features bookish gifts and accessories near the front, so you can snag a whimsical bookmark, literary tote, or other thoughtful item to round out your purchase.

Anna’s Gourmet Popcorn

While there’s nothing corny about a fresh apple for a new teacher, you can take it up a notch with a visit to Anna’s Gourmet Popcorn, conveniently located just across the street from Blume Home. Anna’s offers a number of specialty flavors ranging from classics like white cheddar and caramel to more adventurous flavors like their popular atomic pickle popcorn. While you’re shopping small, you can also opt for a smaller size and treat the entire class to a first day treat that really pops!

Each batch is made fresh in-house, ensuring bold flavors and irresistible crunch in every bite. With gift bags, tins, and seasonal specials always available, Anna’s makes it easy to package up something thoughtful that’s as fun to give as it is to receive.

Hidden Valley Orchards

A visit to Hidden Valley Orchards is a classic Warren County experience, and it’s also a creative way to kick off the school year. Swap the traditional teacher’s apple for one you’ve picked fresh from the orchard, or browse their market for farm-fresh treats like honey, jams, baked goods, and cider. Kids will love the chance to explore the grounds, and parents can stock up on wholesome snacks that are perfect for lunchboxes or after-school pick-me-ups.

With seasonal events happening all year long, Hidden Valley Orchards offers more than just shopping, it’s a place to make memories while checking off back-to-school to-dos.

Vinnie + Velvet

Fully settled into their new, expanded location in downtown Franklin, Vinnie + Velvet is the perfect place to build a back-to-school wardrobe without breaking the bank. Each week, local sellers rent and stock booths with trendy, gently used clothing, so there’s always something new to discover. It’s a new kind of thrifting experience where kids can score fresh styles they’ll be excited to wear, while parents appreciate the budget-friendly prices. Beyond clothing, the boutique section of the store features accessories like hair clips and jewelry, cozy candles that double as thoughtful teacher gifts, fun straw caps to add a little personality to water bottles and more.

After browsing, don’t forget to stop by their sister shop, Fizzy Sips & Sweets, to treat yourself to a refreshing drink and make the afternoon a full outing.