New Media Production Studio Opens in Watertown, Offering Creative Services & Community Space

The following announcement was provided by Atelier Sociale:

Atelier Sociale, a full-service media production studio specializing in photography, videography, and podcast production, announces its grand opening on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 372 Main St., Watertown. The studio aims to serve local businesses, content creators, and community organizations by providing professional media production services and accessible creative space in the heart of Watertown. “We saw a need in the community for high-quality, affordable media production services,” said Darley, co-founder of Atelier Sociale. “Our mission is to help local businesses, artists, and organizations tell their stories through professional photography, video, and audio content.”

Watertown Businesses Can Get Parking Passes for City Lots

Parking passes for Watertown’s municipal lots are available for businesses. See how to apply in the information from the City of Watertown below. The City of Watertown sells a limited number of parking permits to local business owners/employees each quarter. January – March 2026 permits are available on Tuesday, December 9th at 9am at the Treasurer/Collectors Office in City Hall. There are 40 spots available in the Watertown Square lot and 20 spots available in the Nichols Ave lot.

Watertown Restaurant Spotlighted by Governor for Providing Free Meals During SNAP Benefits Cuts

The owner of a Watertown restaurant got a special call from the Governor for donating meals to people in need when the SNAP benefits lapsed during the Federal Government shutdown. Gov. Maura Healey reached out to Max Ritcey, owner of Ritcey East, to thank him personally. “What your family did making all of those meals available to hundreds of people was just an amazing, amazing beautiful gift,” Healey said. “I just want to thank you.” Ritcey said, “Ya, of course.

WBC Invites Businesses to Join First Annual Holiday Decorating Contest

There is still time to join the first Annual Watertown Business Coalition Holiday Decorating Contest. Then members of the public will be able to choose their favorite storefront. See details in the announcement from the WBC, below. The Watertown Business Coalition is excited to run our first Annual Holiday Decorating Contest! We’re calling on all Watertown businesses to help bring the cheer this holiday season by decorating your entrance, storefront, or any outdoor displays you have!

Local Company Buys 95 Thanksgiving Dinners for Watertown Families

Akian Plumbing teamed with the Whooley Foundation to provide 95 Thanksgiving meals. The Whooley Foundation, along with a donation by Steven and Alex Akian — owners of Watertown’s Akian Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning — provided over 95 full Thanksgiving meals to families in town this week. The effort began four years ago when the Akians donated 10 dinners, said Lt. Ken Swift, who heads the Whooley Foundation. This year, 23 more families received meals than in 2024. Swift called it a collaboration between the Police, City departments, community organizations, and Akian.

How to Shop Local in Watertown on Small Business Saturday

The Watertown Business Coalition encourages the community to shop, eat, and spend locally on Nov. 29 — Small Business Saturday. See more info in the announcement from the WBC, below. Small Business Saturday is THIS Saturday, November 29th! This holiday tradition, backed by American Express, celebrates small businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.