Many locals shop at The Cheese Plate in New Paltz for fine cheeses and delicacies from around the world. The shop, located in the Water Street Market, now has new owners, and they live in Gardiner.
The Gazette reached out to Greg and Melissa Gagne to learn more about them and the business they run, which will soon have a new name: Graziery. Greg answered some questions for us.
How long have you both lived in Gardiner? Melissa grew up in Gardiner and we have lived here together for 20 years.
Before The Cheese Plate, did you own or manage any other businesses? Together, we own and operate a cut flower farm called “Flowered,” that specializes in wholesale and event flowers 100% grown by us, following organic practices.
We also operated Red Rooster Cafe for seven years before selling it to Mike Bernardo, who now runs it as Cafe Mio.
What made you decide to run a cheese shop? We were looking for a place to be able to pull all our passions together: food, drink, flowers, plants.
How is The Cheese Plate different (or the same) under your management? We have added a huge houseplant selection, cut flowers, and a strong focus on regional and local products. Our food changes seasonally and takes its direction from the offerings of farms.
What do you like best about running a business in this area? Our home, our community, and our friends. There is no better place to be than working in our neighborhood.
What are your favorite things about Gardiner? The peace and quiet, the community of wonderful people, and the small-town feeling where kids can ride bikes and I can take long evening strolls with my wife. There is nowhere else we would rather be than home in Gardiner.
The shop is open 11 AM to 8 PM Mon-Sat., and Sun. 11 AM to 6 PM. Call 845 255-2444.