Business Spotlight

Cory Farms

Charmed by the past and present(s)

The Bay Magazine ·

Happiness - that is what Denys Eftekhar, owner of Cory Farms in Portsmouth, wants customers to experience upon visiting. From the thoughtful arrangement of home decor and unique gift ideas around every corner, to the vintage music playing in the background, it’s easy to drift off to a “happy place” there.

Forever aspiring to have her own business, Denys initially began her career as a graphic designer in New York, then California, eventually being employed by Apple Computer. After moving to Rhode Island in 2001, she finally discovered the perfect place to open up shop - a Portsmouth farmhouse dating back to 1849. After one year of serious renovation, this historic site now consists of a beautifully restored farm house filled with products sourced locally, as well as flown in from Denys’ many trips abroad. She stays inspired by her drive to find “different, unique products” keeping Cory Farms as much as a destination as it is a store.

Surrounding the farm house are several barns; two of which house a collection of antiques ranging from retro-era desks to higher end furniture. This one-of-a-kind shopping experience is therefore (and aptly) named Cory Farms, Past & Presents. Charming themes are abundant throughout the store. One section in particular is adorned with nautical accents from octopus coasters to lobster and anchor patterned pillows. On the opposite side, visitors will find a curated array of seasonal fixtures, accessories for the perfect tablescape, serving ware, and kitchen essentials that would make even Martha Stewart jealous. Updated with each holiday and change of season, this is a great place to find a hostess gift such as adorably shaped asparagus candles, hand painted Easter eggs from Austria, and cake tiers appropriate for any springtime gathering.

Indicative of Denys’ support of the local artistic community, products include jewelry by Noon Design (two RISD graduates), portraits of smiling donkeys by Westport artist Nancy Whitin, as well as themed pillows created on premises. They also host many items hand-selected at gift shows and antique fairs held in Denmark, England, France and Germany. Their next phase of business will be expanding their website to enable customers to order products and create bridal registries online.

Upcoming events at Cory Farms include an “Easter & Welcome Spring” Open House on April 12, where attendees get the opportunity to browse the latest spring products on display, just in time before the Easter Holiday. Their annual “Antique Car Show” is taking place over Memorial Day Weekend. Visitors can admire the vintage wheels parked along the property, while enjoying open air shopping of items, both old and new.
Whether searching for a thoughtful gift or simply stopping by on an afternoon drive, a pleasant experience awaits at Cory Farms.

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