More often than not, business owners opt for an eponymous handle such as Richards Jewelers, Iobst Travel or Wally's Deli. There’s nothing wrong with that; in fact, it's the personal branding that often creates recognition locally.

Truth be told, if I owned a bookstore, it would probably be named Jerry's Books. But because I don't like other people touching my books, the store probably wouldn't be very successful.

Location names, too, are very popular. There's a very long list of Emmaus this or East Penn that in this area. So, for whatever creative implulse went into it, here's kudos to five not-so typically named local businesses:

The Weeping Yogi Holistic Center & Store: Don't you feel more spiritual just knowing this store exists. But that's not all. Beyond offering meditation sessions, music, literature, crystals and more, it also brings interesting demonstrations such as Crystal Singing  and Sound Healing.

The Basket Gypsy: The name evokes Eastern Europe right here on Min Street. The store focuses on baskets and basket related items such as jars and knick knacks to fill them, as well as antique furniture.

Spotted Dog Barkery: This one is just fun to say. Go ahead; say it out loud. That's much better than, say, Nancy's Handmade, Human-Grade Dog Biscuts. That wouldn't even fit on the sign. Your dog will love you if you stop in.

Happy Tails Pet Grooming: OK, perhaps I'm a sucker for cute dog-related names, but if you have to get a pet groomed, wouldn't you like to see that happy tail wag?

Elephant's Trunk Consignment Shop: This one, oddly, makes perfect sense. Inside is a wide variety of lightly used items including silver and gold jewerly, like going through someone else's stuff while there aren't looking. You can't resist.

Check out our Emmaus directory for information on all your friendly neighborhood business owners.