A Shameless Plug For My Favorite Downtown Merchants

I love having an office in downtown Gig Harbor.  It may be a cliché but it’s often true that it’s hard to see the forest for the trees.  And from my interactions I know it’s sometimes difficult for residents in Gig Harbor and Fox Island to truly comprehend that we live amongst a jewel of a tourist destination. Its physical beauty is stunning and still takes my breath away as it does visitors to the area.

1.Having lunch yesterday at Anthony’s (amazingly yummy), it was like being in a picture perfect postcard looking out of the large windows onto the harbor. Bright blue sky dotted by fluffy white clouds. Mt. Rainier framed in all its glory by the snug protected harbor, boats gently rocking in the breeze, seals frolicking and birds coasting on the wind.Well, you get the picture. How can you beat it, right? Sure we could do with more shopping opportunities but let’s talk about what we do have and how important it is that we support these small local businesses and maintain the character that makes downtown Gig Harbor the vibrant heart of the community that it is.

View from Anthony's

 2. The Keeping Room: It has an amazing assortment of wines and surprisingly low prices. But I often pop in just to chat with Bruce and have a tasting of his current favorites. Bruce Gair, a downtown business owner and local resident for over 20 years has the most interesting tidbits of town lore. And yes some fascinating if slightly scandalous gossip. And if you want an education in wine Bruce is your man. He’s passionate about all things wine and he loves to share his knowledge. The Keeping Room located on Pioneer Way is typically open Wednesday through Sunday.

The Keeping Room

    3. Sassybones Antiques: Bernadette Wohl opened Sassybones about three years ago and, just recently moved to Neptunes Court, on Pioneer Way, with her new partner Peggy, in order to gain more space. I’m crazy for antiques, collectables and vintage finds and boy have I found some amazing things at Bernie’s store which used to be in the Pueblito complex. Like a tried and true collector I’m always on the lookout for the unusual and for the unusually great bargains. I get my fix of both requirements here. The store is chock full of fun, funky and fabulous finds. If you haven’t been in put it on your to do list. It’s definitely worth coming downtown for.  Oh, and call Abigail’s if you’re interested in booking an estate sale organized and run by Bernie.

My favorite antiques/junque

4.   4. No Dearth Of Books: Guy and Martha Johnson, owners of No Dearth are continuing the good work of Harry and Shirly Dearth who decided to retire a couple of years ago. They moved the bookstore to Neptune’s Court on Pioneer Way and have done an amazing job of creating a comfy and inviting environment with cozy sitting areas for reading.  And, for book lovers who like nothing better than to spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon browsing the shelves. All of which are filled with interesting collector, coffee table and rare early edition books. They have a special affinity for Northwest and nautical tomes.

5  5.Java and Clay and Stitch n’ Sew: I don’t have little ones at home anymore but I often have them come visit us for day at a time. During the winter it’s a challenge keeping them busy and I’m sure that’s the case for families in town that do have young children. That’s why I’m so grateful to Randy Blue and Donna Atwood who offers creative outlets for children. We’ve spent many a rainy day at Java and Clay having the kids paint away while the adults enjoy a latte or two. And if you’re not familiar with Donna’s Stitch and Sew studio then you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the art of sewing is alive and well and being taught to the youngest of our local generation. It’s a wonderful thing to see these young kids and the excitement that they get from using their creative minds for something other than video games.

Stitch A Roo

66. Sharon’s and A Gentleman’s and Lady’s Consignment: Like new designer duds at a fraction of the price. As well as accessories, shoes, boots and bags. These downtown consignment stores are a  longtime favorite for savvy shoppers. It’s always a thrill to find your favorite designer and a bargain price.

7. Stacia Whately-Hawkin’s Poe. Matt Thompson-Keller Williams:  Did you know there are 200+  real estate agents in what could be  considered a very small burg. But like in a lot of professions they run the gamut from extremely incompetent to amazingly stellar and everything in between. Matt and Stacia are personable, and really care about the person they’re working with and for. They also have amazing website chockfull of information.

Matt

Stacia

8. Laetitia Murray Photography: Bet you didn’t know that we have an amazing French photographer in town, did you? If you look closely you can see her logo on my profile pic. I consider Laetitia an artist rather than a photographer and her work with teeny, weeny newborns is equal to any of Anne Geddes work. She’s been called the Baby Whisperer and for good reason. There isn’t another photographer like her in a 30 mile radius.  An assertion I’m sure you’ll  agree with once you see her work.

I love to look at her work for fun. It's that amazing

One of my favorites

 

Probably the best picture I've ever had taken

Downtown Gig Harbor, unlike a lot of Main Street towns in America, is alive and vibrant. But it’s a struggle. Especially for our small, locally owned retail stores who have to compete with the big guys like Target, Kohl’s and Marshall’s. But it’s worth the time and the little bit of effort it takes to keep them going by patronizing them as a local consumer. These small establishments are run by your friends, neighbors and relatives and, they need you, us to stay afloat and alive during these difficult economic times. So, come on down, they miss you and want to see your smiling faces.