Small steps to give back can make a big, collective impact, relates Victoria Conner, who owns My Darling Maine. Her business is a quintessential Bar Harbor boutique with a big heart.
The shop is a platform for making connections, a natural way of doing business and life for Conner. Her giving nature is the essence of My Darling Maine. (The name honors her late mother’s doting sentiment, my darling daughter.)
“One of the biggest ways of giving back is by building community — participating in the process whenever and however we can,” says Conner.
My Darling Maine gives supportive scoops to the Hancock County SPCA, Bar Harbor Historical Society, Bar Harbor Pride and the town’s food pantry, along with dedicating time and donations to the annual Sea of Blue autism walk.
“One of the biggest ways of giving back is by building community — participating in the process whenever and however we can.” — Victoria Conner
The list goes on and every little bit counts, Conner says. “Flip the script,” she quips. “What if I needed help? Wouldn’t I want to know that my community would provide support in a time of need?”
Aligning for causes
When storms damaged the town’s Shore Path, Conner launched a candle and relabeled it to Save the Shore Path, with proceeds benefiting a path restoration project.
The Bar Harbor varsity sweater displayed with other goods supports the local historical society.
Photos: Brian Aquadro
The historical society also approached Conner when it obtained a 1950s Bar Harbor varsity sweater, wondering if she could recreate and sell it to benefit the group’s educational outreach fund. Conner partnered with a vendor and stocked the sweaters. The initiative prompted lots of storytelling and support.
“The shop is an environment where we interact with people in a meaningful way in a trusted space,” Conner relates. “They share their stories with you, and you become part of the story.”
Starfish Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.seasideretailer.com/starfish-award. 
