One in 8,200 Where the personalities of Middlebury proper are celebrated After migrating through Main Street, Walter finds home at Blue Moon

Author: Alice Wisener

On a late Saturday afternoon right before closing time, Ellen Walter, owner of Blue Moon Clothing and Gifts, confessed that she has had a long and busy day, with streams of customers coming in and out. Her unique and different style shows through her merchandise and has proved to be a favorite in the community.

Walter came to Vermont 29 years ago for the beauty and isolation. She was drawn to Middlebury in particular because of shops and the vibrancy of the town.

Walter's shop has not always been nestled neatly beside Wild Mountain Thyme on 46 Main Street. She moved 14 years ago from Bristol to a storefront near a nail salon in downtown Middlebury, and soon moved again to a spot near a bead store, before finally settling down in her current residence. It's proved to be a successful one for Walter.

"There are a lot of shops in Middlebury," Walter said, "I just want to make mine different. I go to [fashion] shows mainly in Boston and New York and try to pick out merchandise that is unique."

A quick glance around the shop will certainly confirm a distinct collection of jewelry, soaps and clothing for sale. I can't help but notice a set of intricate origami earrings on a stand by the window and a colorful beaded bag hanging on display. Walter doesn't consider her shop to be "trendy," but it's clear that her merchandise is influenced by the colors and patterns of high-fashion trends.

Although mainly acquiring most of her merchandise from shows, Walter does make some greeting cards with her 16-year-old daughter. Together, the family has a distinct identity in Middlebury, something that has manifested itself in their college search. "[My daughter] is realizing that most places are not as nice as Middlebury," Walter said with a laugh. "She still wants to go away, but I think she is starting to appreciate the beautiful landscapes and rural aspect of where she grew up."