My Favorite 'Local' Retailers
I wanted to share with you some of my favorite local (to Washington area) stores. You’ll see that a lot of the makers I mentioned in my previous blogs are also featured in these stores - it’s a pretty small community.
Please consider shopping small and know that when you shop these local businesses you also support the makers they carry - and it means the world to us!
Blumekinder is one of my favorite local spots. Filled with incredible hand died silk, jewelry and vintage finds (like rugs, pillows, wooden bowls and pottery) it’s a must visit. Nestled in the main drag of the Ballard neighborhood in Seattle, it’s right next to Sonic Boom Records and close to Trove Vintage Boutique, Ballyhoo Curiosity Shop, Venue - it’s in the perfect spot to park and walk around and shop - especially on a Sunday when the farmers market is happening.
If you head north to Bellingham be sure to stop off at Brazen Shop and Studio - it’s tucked in an alley - but don’t let that fool you - this store is full to the brim with handmade and local treasures.
Owners Allison and Karen have carefully curated an exceptional collection of goods in their small store. You’ll find items for every taste from gorgeous original art, to hand made bandanas, clutches, jewelry, stationary, tee shirts and more. Id’ say it’s worth a trip north just to go to Brazen.
Edmonds Crow is a little closer than Bellingham (if you’re in Seattle that is) and is certainly worth a visit. Besides the delicious orange couch which dominates the show room this shop is filled to the brim with goodies just perfect for your holiday shopping needs.
Candles, jewelry, home goods, ceramics, art, cards, candles and much much more - this store is a treat and then owner Jen is absolute delight so do yourself a favor and support this small business this holiday season.
If you head east to Winthrop you’ll find Gathered Boutique; a beautifully curated collection of home goods and handmade items.
They have an incredible section of cozy hats, sweaters, pillows and blankets. Like this one and this one. GIVE ME ALL THE COZY! As well as some of my favorite candles, cards, bandanas and lip balm. And let’s not forget they have jewelry too :)
I don’t know what I did before I discovered Labels Consignment, they are hands down the best consignment store in Seattle.
They hand pick every item on their shelves and all the clothes are practically unworn, in perfect condition. Plus their pricing is outstanding!
If you don’t shop with them this holiday season, at least follow them on Instagram - their daily style posts are really inspirational and have been extra cozy lately.
In fact, it’s their Instagram that usually pulls me in, and then lucky for me, they are just up the street so I can DM them and then pop in and make my purchase. That is in fact the exact thing I did when they posted the outfit on the right and I am now the proud owner of those shoes and that sweater!
On a recent day trip to Leavenworth I discovered Posy and wow, was I impressed. I have previously found Leavenworth’s stores to be lacking in the handmade makers department but this shop knocked my socks off.
Posy has gathered an artfully collection of small batch produced home decor, apparel and accessories. Most of their goods are from women owned small businesses based in the US & Canada. They have a huge selection of items in the brick and mortar and a small selection on their website. If you need an excuse for a day trip - this is it!
Downtown Seattle offers a lot of great retail options but Sassafrass is a must visit. Just north of Pike Place Market, Sassafrass is filled to the brim with handmade items ranging from clothing and accessories to jewelry and art.
The owner, Amy, has done an exceptional job of providing her customers with an array of quality goods and not only that, but the area under the shop (in the basement) is home to a shared studio space for several of the clothing designers featured in Amy’s store.
Since COVID Sassafrass has been hosting online events and sidewalk sales - and they are defiantly worth checking out!
Last but certainly not least - Sfingday - located in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle and online this is one of my favorite small businesses in the city. Besides the fact that the artists who Christine has chosen to feature in her store are exceptional - the variety and collection of items makes shopping a dream. Plus she has designed gift sets that take all the guess work out of what to buy that certain someone.
Also, she sells puzzles - the most amazing assortment of puzzles - and I want every single one!
