By Michele Taranto

The public and guest judges have spoken! Congratulations to the winners of the Friends of Norwood Center and Norwood Rotary Club’s 1st Annual Norwood Window Competition, ‘The Magic of Winter’! The contest kicked off on Small Business Saturday, November 30, and ran through Sunday, December 15. Residents were encouraged to view each beautifully-decorated storefront with a map of participating locations and then cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award!

The clear winner for the People’s Choice Award was Chelala Jewelers! 

The panel of four judges, Norwood Town Manager Tony Mazzucco, Norwood Selectman Amanda Grow, acting Norwood Recreation Director Sam White, and Norwood Police Officer Baguma and his canine companion, Mustang Sally, also voted for their choices in the categories of Most Original, Most Local, and Most Whimsical.

Most Original: Modern Eyes

Most Local: Custom Art Framing

Most Whimsical: The Cove

There were 11 businesses in total who competed in the contest, and each one deserves recognition and appreciation to help Norwood celebrate the holiday season. Each business committed to developing a welcoming and eye-catching storefront display reflective of their industry and personalities. The windows were spectacular to view day or night and while already a charming town, their embellishments made shopping, window browsing, and even walking a more pleasurable event! 

Charles River Running

Emerald City Plant Shop

The Lark Center

Moon Lily Boutique

Tax Solutions

Mazeri Hair Salon

As the Friends of Norwood Center further develops its communal activities and outreach, its members hope this competition will grow each year and people will come from outside Norwood’s borders to view, vote, and shop the Town’s businesses. Stay tuned for next year’s event and a brighter, more festive town!

The Friends of Norwood Center is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization comprised of Norwood residents, town employees, and Norwood small business owners. The group’s shared vision is of success and prosperity for town commerce that will ultimately benefit the greater Norwood community and its visitors. For more information on the Friends of Norwood Center or to join this productive communal organization, visit www.norwoodcenter.org.

Photos courtesy of local photographer Jonathan Cardoni