Think "made in Maine" means lobster-trap coffee tables, balsam pillows and candy shaped like moose droppings? Think again.

Maine Maven takes a fresher, more modern approach to "buy local." One that celebrates the state's reputation for quality without resorting to cliches.

To the owners, Jason and Kristen Lainsbury, this means exquisite design, sustainable production and the chance to actually know the people who make the products. Because our boutique grew out of the Maine Maven blog and the relationships Kristen made over more than a decade of lifestyle reporting, we have access to people and products that many retailers don't. And at Maine Maven, every product tells a story.

We're located in Orono, the heart of Maine and the home of the University of Maine. We take great pride in our town, our students and the university's tradition of excellence. We welcome students and their families and we love that many have already made Maine Maven a part of their Orono experience. We also love getting to know our customers — who hail from near and far.

Maine Maven is not a gallery, and it is not a country crafts store. It's something decidedly different. Entirely new. And constantly changing. We invite you to experience the best of Maine.