Webster business bits

9 Sep

I’ve had occasion recently to visit several of our town and village’s small business owners. My main purpose was to solicit donations for the Women’s Club of Webster’s upcoming Card and Game Party, and of course everyone was very generous, as our small business owners always are. But it was also a great chance for me to check in on these businesses, and chat with the owners to see how things are going.

In the process, I learned about all sorts of special events and new offerings, several of which I would now like to share with you.

We’re going to start with some BIG NEWS from Sweet Shenanigans at 15 East Main St. in the village. This little bake shop is barely six months old — they only opened in April — but it has already become a village favorite.

So much so that our sweets-loving Webster community has nominated them in the Best Bakery category of this year’s Rochester Community’s Choice Awards.

The Community’s Choice Awards is a nationwide program which celebrates the best businesses and organizations across the country. Community members nominate and vote for their favorite companies in more than 100 categories. Sweet Shanigans is vying against six other Rochester-area bakeries, including some big names you will definitely recognize. And this is just the first round; if they get enough votes, their category will be whittled down to five semi-finalists, then three finalists.

Voting is open now through September 23, so log on soon to cast your vote for Webster’s very own Sweet Shenanigans. Click this link to go to the voting page, click on the “Dining” tab, then “Bakery.”

And this is the kind of thing that has made Sweet Shenanigans a favorite:

They’ve just introduced a really fun new concept, the “Shenanigans Surprise Bags.” Basically, if you’re undecided about what to choose from the delightful variety of goodies in their display cases, you can order a surprise bag. They’ll choose around eight items from the cases and the bread rack — generally a $25-$30 value — and pack them up all ready to go. Your cost is only $20.

There is a limited amount of Surprise Bags available, and they’re only offered on Thursdays.

This adorable little “Trinket Trade Box” is located outside Oh Bella, a charming boutique located at 24 East Main St.

Owner Isabella Proietti got the idea from a shop she came across in Orlando and installed hers at the beginning of summer. The idea is kind of like a Little Free Library, but in this case children can place little trinkets, toys or stickers in it, and take what they’d like. Isabella says it’s been very popular, with both children and adults alike.

It’s pretty adorable. Make sure to check it out next time you’re in the village.

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Never Say Never Stables, located at 906 Maple Dr. in West Webster, has recently introduced a brand new “Horse Hangout” experience for adults.

It’s part of the Barnside Social Club, a welcoming place to relax, connect, and enjoy the company of horses, without the pressure of riding, lessons, or need of experience.

The Never Say Never website explains,

Many of the horses at Never Say Never Stables are enjoying their senior years. After spending their lives teaching, carrying, and caring for people, they’ve earned a softer landing. While they’re no longer suited for regular adult riding, they still thrive on connection. They love being groomed, pampered, hand-grazed, talked to, photographed, and simply enjoyed for who they are. And as it turns out, many adults are looking for exactly that.

The Barnside Social Club was created for those who miss being around horses, dream of owning one someday, once rode years ago, or simply find peace in their presence. Here, there is no pressure to ride, perform, or know anything about horses. Just come as you are and enjoy authentic connection with these wonderful animals—and with other people who appreciate them, too.
Because sometimes the best part of the horse isn’t riding.

The program offers participants the opportunity to meet and connect with the horses in a relaxed barn atmosphere. You can meet fellow horse lovers and enjoy light refreshments or BYO, depending on the event. No riding experience is necessary.

New adventures are scheduled every month. Click here for more information and to check availability.

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(posted 9/15/2026)

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