Local Business Spotlight: Moose + Frankie - A Shop Built on Authenticity, Creativity, and Connection

Chelsea Steen
Jul 6
4 min read

One of my favorite things about exploring local businesses is discovering the stories behind them. Sometimes those stories begin with years of planning. Sometimes they're inspired by a lifelong passion. And sometimes, they start with a simple conversation.

That's exactly how I met Rebecca Albinola, owner and maker behind Moose + Frankie.

I was visiting a coffee shop nearby and needed the code to the restroom. Rebecca happened to help me out, and after a brief conversation, I found myself wandering into her shop. What started as a quick interaction turned into a genuine connection, and I'm so glad it did.

Because Moose + Frankie isn't your average gift shop.

It's a thoughtfully curated space filled with handcrafted products, meaningful gifts, and the kind of personal touch that's becoming harder and harder to find these days.

From Handmade Soaps to a New Beginning

Before Moose + Frankie became the charming storefront it is today, it started with soap.

For the past seven years, Rebecca has been handcrafting natural soaps and skincare products, carefully creating each batch herself using thoughtfully selected ingredients. What began as a creative outlet evolved into a passion for making products that support self-care in a natural, authentic way.

Then came a turning point.

Following her divorce, Rebecca made the decision to take a leap of faith and build something entirely her own. Less than a year ago, she opened Moose + Frankie, creating not only a new business but a new chapter for herself and her family.

As any small business owner knows, taking that leap isn't easy. But Rebecca saw an opportunity to turn years of experience, creativity, and hard work into something meaningful - and she's done exactly that.

Today, every product on her shelves reflects the resilience, determination, and heart that helped bring her vision to life.

More Than a Gift Shop

One thing that immediately stood out to me is that Rebecca never wanted Moose + Frankie to feel generic.

In a world where online shopping and mass-produced products dominate the market, she wanted to create something more personal. Something that feels intentional.

And that's exactly what you'll find when you walk through the doors.

Alongside her handcrafted soaps and skincare products, Moose + Frankie features a carefully curated collection of gifts, home goods, jewelry, candles, ceramics, and locally made products from fellow makers and artists.

Every item is selected with purpose.

Many of the products and displays are inspired by Rebecca's travels and experiences with her family, allowing her to share pieces of those memories with the people who visit her shop.

It's the kind of place where you're guaranteed to find something unique - whether you're shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect gift.

Skincare That Supports, Not Fixes

One of the things I admire most about Rebecca's approach is her philosophy around self-care.

She's not interested in selling unrealistic beauty standards or convincing people they need to "fix" themselves.

Instead, she believes skincare should support and nourish the skin you're already in.

Her handcrafted soaps and skincare products are made in small batches with natural ingredients and are designed to be simple, effective, and gentle. Every product is created with the same care and attention to detail that Rebecca brings to every aspect of her business.

That mindset feels refreshing.

In a world constantly telling us we need more, better, or different, Rebecca's message is simple: take care of yourself, embrace authenticity, and choose products that make you feel good.

Built on Genuine Connection

When I asked Rebecca what she loves most about owning Moose + Frankie, her answer had nothing to do with products.

It was people.

She genuinely loves connecting with customers.

Whether she's helping someone find the perfect gift, sharing the story behind a product, or simply getting to know the people who walk through her doors, those conversations are what make the work meaningful.

And honestly, you can feel that the moment you step inside the shop.

Moose + Frankie feels welcoming because Rebecca is welcoming.

Professional, dependable, flexible, and incredibly hardworking, she's built a business that reflects her values and creates space for real human connection.

Creating Something Different

What makes Moose + Frankie stand out isn't just that the products are handmade.

It's that Rebecca remains deeply involved in every part of the experience.

She creates, curates, sources, and personally stands behind the products she sells. Every soap she makes, every gift she brings into the shop, and every interaction she has with customers is rooted in authenticity.

At a time when so much of life feels automated and impersonal, Rebecca has built something refreshingly genuine.

And it's clear that her customers appreciate it.

She found a community of people who were looking for exactly what she was creating—a place where quality matters, stories matter, and relationships matter.

Looking Ahead

Like many entrepreneurs, Rebecca continues to balance business ownership, family life, and future goals.

Currently renting, she shared that renting has given her the flexibility she needs during this stage of life. While she and her fiancé hope to purchase a home someday, they're taking their time and making thoughtful decisions about what comes next.

For now, she's focused on continuing to grow Moose + Frankie while making space for something she's actively working on learning herself: rest.

As a business owner, mother, maker, and creator, she's spent years pouring into everyone around her. Learning how to slow down and recharge has become part of the journey too.

Looking for a Gift That's Actually Meaningful?

If you're tired of generic gifts and mass-produced products, Moose + Frankie is absolutely worth a visit.

Whether you're shopping for handcrafted skincare, unique home goods, locally made gifts, or simply want to support a small business built on authenticity and heart, you'll find something special here.

More importantly, you'll meet the person behind it all.

And that's what makes Moose + Frankie so memorable.