We caught up with Allison GiamBruno this week! She shares what keeps her local after growing up in Glens Falls, her perfect day in the city (including a favorite bookstore and a go-to date night spot), some Glens Falls diner nostalgia, and more…
Tell us about yourself!
I’m Allison GiamBruno, a freelance social media and email marketing strategist. I have a heart for helping creative entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses, especially here in Upstate New York, build meaningful connections with their communities. After my time in the agency world, I’ve found so much joy in taking the lead, helping passionate business owners in a way that’s hands-on and meets them right where they are.
When I’m not crafting the perfect subject line or configuring email automations, you’ll find me flowing through a pilates class at Hot Yoga Queensbury or cozied up at my favorite hangout spot, WorkSmart Coworking & Meeting Space, iced coffee in hand, of course!
On Life In and Around Glens Falls
I was lucky enough to grow up right here in Glens Falls, running around Thomson Ave as a kid. Back then, my world was a perfect little triangle, Sanford Street Elementary, the Crandall Public Library, and Crandall Park (aka the ultimate sledding spot on snow days).
I’ve stuck around because, honestly, where else can you find the perfect mix of small-town charm, the beauty of Lake George, and the energy of Saratoga Springs all in one place? It’s pretty special here!
Some Glens Falls Favorites
One of my favorite things about this area is the community of passionate, creative people who call it home. There’s so much talent, heart, and collaboration here. You might think that being only a few hours north of New York City means there aren’t many creatives around, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Just a few friends who come to mind are Corine Pettit, Staci Oswald, and Jeremiah and Emily Lewis (who you might recognize from previous highlights on Glens Falls Living!). Our region is bursting with creative energy, and I feel so lucky to be part of it!
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
My perfect day in Glens Falls kicks off with a sweaty-but-amazing Hot Inferno Pilates class at Hot Yoga Queensbury (because nothing wakes you up like that). Then, it’s straight to Kru for a breakfast sandwich, plus an iced latte, of course. After that, my partner, Cameron of Black Mountain Visuals, and I love wandering through The Shirt Factory, stopping at Beldame Books - who can resist a good bookstore? We’d sneak in a little work session at WorkSmart Coworking & Meeting Space (because, balance), and then wrap up the day with a cozy dinner at [farmacy]!
On the Past
So many memories of Glens Falls come to mind, but the first one has to be summer trips to the Crandall Public Library, making sure I hit the reading quota for their summer program. I was a total bookworm, and I was all about snagging some fun prizes!
Another favorite memory is weekend breakfasts at Sam’s Diner on Dix Ave. with my dad. I loved checking out all the Wheaties boxes on display - it was such a comfy little spot and always felt like a special tradition.
On the Future
Honestly, I can’t even think of a new business to bring to Glens Falls because there are already so many incredible ones, especially in the past 10 years. If anything, I’d love to see more recognition for the amazing businesses that don’t have a storefront. Many solopreneurs, creatives, and service-based businesses are doing great work behind the scenes. It would be wonderful to see local business groups and city leadership actively welcome and support these newer, independent businesses, especially those bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the area!
