This tiny gift shop is perfectly located in the heart of Madrona, right next to Verité -- the original home of Cupcake Royale, makers of those liberally frosted mini-cakes gaily topped with sprinkles. The charming storefront is just as enticing as the cupcakes, painted celadon green and festooned with flowers.
At just 250 square feet, the shop is small but packed with treasures, among them vintage finds and antiques. "These are things you're not going to find anywhere else," says owner Amy Bush. Some of her acquisitions include beaded purses in pristine condition, Fenton and Bohemian glass, and unusual tchotchkes.
About 40 percent of the shop is devoted to arts, crafts, and jewelry made by local designers and artists. Some of the current favorites are Barbara Dunshee's whimsical pottery ($90-$200), hand-forged iron candlesticks by Holly Mistur ($75), Heavens to Betsy potholders in cute prints ($7), soft baby blankets in hip colors and prints by Hot Coco Warm Designs ($32-$75), and semi-precious gemstone jewelry by Tanya Comerford ($100-$125). I love the terra cotta birdbaths by Syd Shera--birds will stand in line to bathe in these. The bath is brightly glazed in tones of aqua or green and the base features a textured pattern. They're a true work of art and a steal at $250.
Other great gifts to grab and go include candles by Michel Design Works. Scents such as grapefruit and lily of the valley are packaged in reusable tasseled boxes ($15). Or choose from Savannah Bee Body Butter ($25), locally made Big Dipper Lip Balm ($2.95), and Buddha-shaped soaps ($12). The aprons in reproduction retro prints by Funktion Home are cute enough to wear over jeans, in the kitchen, or in the garden ($28-$35). Or use it as a crumb catcher when you go next door for a cupcake.
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