Books, bling and bonbons
Writing this column is expensive! Last week’s shoe shopping adventure cost me $126.95 (for two pair of irresistible shoes!). Of course I submitted my expense report to Beach Paper, and I was told, politely but firmly, “No.” Imagine that.
This week we are headed to downtown Lewes. Our first stop is Marsha’s, located at 112 Front Street, a picturesque spot along the Rehoboth-Lewes Canal. Owner/artist Marsha Holler is both charming and funny and engages everyone who comes through the door. Many of her designs are featured in Marsha's Collection; an evolving line of easy-to-wear clothing. By changing the design of the sleeves, the neckline or the hemline, Marsha modifies basic t-shirts and sweatshirts into something much more stylish and fun. There’s also great jewelry, hats, soaps, home accessories, handmade recycled paper ornaments from Vietnam, and Lorraine Kinzey shell boxes.
When you leave Marsha’s, take a shortcut to the main shopping area via Neils Alley. There you’ll find Nectar Café & Juice Bar where you should order a Smarty Pants. You can admire the lineup of adorable aprons by the door while they whip up that refreshing drink that tastes surprisingly yummy and delicious - considering that it’s super healthy.
As the nectar of the gods surges through your veins, saunter over to Second Street to Deanna’s, a clothing store owned by the mother-daughter team, Deanna Wagamon and Ashley King. These women have terrific taste and while most of the square footage here is devoted to clothing, it’s the lovely selection of shoes, bags, jewelry and scarves that I can’t seem to live without. My friends and I always score some little goody like a purse (they carry my favorite line of bags, Big Buddha), the perfect pair of stylish yet comfy shoes (in aqua no less), or just the right bracelet for that person who is so hard to buy for. They also carry NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans), Hobo handbags, UGGs, Lynn Ritchie clothing and more.
Right next door to Deanna’s is Edie Bees which is, without a doubt, the most beautiful candy store you can possibly imagine. Owner Leisa Berlin imports tasty delectables from all over the country and presents them in the most gorgeous way. Grab a handmade truffle and let’s keep moving.
Heading north you’ll discover the enchanting Biblion Books. What is it about a bookstore that is so beguiling? I hope they never go away. Proprietor Jen Mason is a soft-spoken, well-read delight who has managed to assemble a wonderfully eclectic collection of books that will satisfy every reader. There’s also terrific magnets, journals, literary gifts and original art, notepads, mugs, and the best collection of cards on the planet.
On the north side of Second Street you’ll find a tiny little shop called The Cottage. Owner Sally Lawton has the most incredible eye for gorgeous, girly, romantic things, and she uses the whole shop as her canvas. There is more to see in one square foot of space than you thought was possible. Tiny delicate earrings, vintage pieces, stunning beaded scarves, lovely soaps and potions, and one-of-a-kind home accessories all displayed on magnificent antiques. There’s a sense of whimsy about it that I just love.
Our next stop is Coral Cove, a petite boutique not much bigger than my bedroom closet. But what exquisite, elegant items they offer, including the increasingly popular tassel necklaces.
I’m seeing them everywhere now, but I saw them first in Coral Cove.
It’s fascinating to me when a store with so little inventory can have so many exceptional things: hats, cards, jewelry, home décor, and a little bit of this and that. Owner Mary Walls will be opening a second store in Rehoboth very soon, so be sure to stop by.
Breeze in to the Lewes Bake Shoppe for a cup of the most delicious coffee imaginable. Everything is ground, roasted and made fresh in house by owner and divine java goddess, Amy Felker.
Our last stop is Treasures, one of many stores owned by the amazing Micha Seto, who makes the Energizer Bunny look like a sloth on Xanax. Seriously. Treasures sells lamps, cool stuff to put on your walls, and jewelry.
Lots and lots of jewelry. My favorite line here is Firefly, intricately embellished artisan jewelry that is just stunning. Micha told me she is about to debut a new bracelet collection from Chrysalis of London (similar to alex and ani) with custom designs for Rehoboth, Lewes, Bethany and Dewey.
Deb Griffin is a Realtor with Maggio Shields Real Estate, author of The Local Buzz and a partner in EatingRehoboth.com restaurant tours. Deb can be reached at Debsmyagent@thedelawarebeaches.com.
