Renys: Celebrating Every Season of Home

Sponsored by Renys

As the year tipped toward winter, my friends and I found ourselves in a season of change and celebration. My husband, Teddy, and I had just exchanged vows at the Portland Courthouse and were settling into our Scarborough home with our foster dog. My best friend since middle school, Lindsey, and her boyfriend, lifelong Mainer Phil, had moved in together in Lindsey’s Libbytown neighborhood and were preparing for their first winter there as a pair. And our friend Hannah had just completed her first 50k race and was starting a fresh chapter in a new apartment near Woodfords Corner. 

Each of us was creating a new and improved version of home in our own way, which made it the perfect time for a group trip to Renys in Saco. For more than 75 years, and now across 20 locations in Maine, Renys has been the kind of place that meets you wherever you are in life. Whether you’re setting up a new apartment, decorating your forever home, or getting into the holiday spirit, Renys somehow always has exactly what you need—and a few delightful surprises you need impulsively.

A few aisles into our Renys adventure, the holiday spirit found us. Shelves were stacked with twinkly string lights, walls were lined with ornaments and tinsel, and candles carried scents of cinnamon, balsam, and cedar. We wandered past cookie trays with snowflake and pine-tree cutouts, cozy throw blankets, and the small touches of holiday whimsy that make the season feel warm and inviting.

We came hoping to find a few home items that would be useful and joyful and left with baskets full of both. Teddy and I picked out sparkling icicle lights for our front windows, a plaid bear dish towel, and our first tree ornament as a married couple—a snowman dressed in fishing gear. He also found a Maine-shaped cutting board that he insists is too beautiful to use, so it’s going up on his office shelves.

Hannah said she’d know what she needed for her new home once she saw it—and she was right. She left with a baking pan, a charming oval trivet, and a fun Maine-themed beach towel. Lindsey and Phil found a draft stopper, soft washcloths for just 79 cents each, and, of course, a gnome to add to their growing “gnome home:” a bright red clock that swings open to reveal a tiny world of folkloric figures during the holidays.

That’s the beauty of Renys: It’s both practical and spontaneous, a one-stop shop for every season of the year and of life. It’s a place where errands turn into laughter, where great prices meet great company, and where the spirit of Maine shines through in every aisle. 

My friends were impressed that you can find all this at Renys without the clutter or chaos of other department and discount stores. From brand names you’d recognize instantly to trendy and classic styles that feel like they should be much pricier, each discovery feels like a hidden gem, yet everything is so tidy and organized that it’s easy to find the diamonds. Around every turn, someone in our group called out an unbelievable deal or unique item they’d spotted. 

We realized we’d spent more than an hour browsing the store—charmed by kitchenware, bedding, bath linens, and living-room statement pieces—and that was just one corner of Renys. They also carry groceries, clothing, and everyday essentials. We were still exploring when cashiers announced what felt like retail’s version of last call.

As we loaded our goods into the car, someone said what we were all thinking: We need to take stock of what else our homes need and come back to Renys soon. 

We left with home items and decor we’ll use and enjoy every day, pieces that not only brighten our spaces but also carry the memory of picking them out together on our celebratory Renys adventure. What started as a trip for holiday and cozy-season prep turned into what felt like the warm beginning of the season itself.

Mariya Greeley

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