On Thursday afternoon I had the pleasure of checking out the newest art-lover's haven on the West Side and meeting its owner, Jeromy McFarren.

In prelude to a full review of his shop, New Leaf Contemporary Art Gallery and Gift Boutique, which will appear in Monday’s Tuesday's column and blog entry, I'm spreading his invitation to the store's grand opening Saturday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. It's at 30 Beekman Street, in the bright yellow building that Lioness Boutique recently vacated. (By the way, that store is now on Spring Street in the Congress Building, just off Broadway and right across from the park).

New Leaf carries products that are all handmade by local artisans, with everything from designer art shoes to felt headbands, ceramics, knitted coffee mug cozies, makeup and unique tote bags. That's not to mention the art gallery in the back! It's worth checking out. You might even see me there.

For directions and more information, go to www.newleafart.com or call 518.636.8026.