A new “upscale resale” shop has opened in Dolores featuring shabby chic furniture and unique merchandise.
The store is searching for a name, said owner Ginger McClellan-Swope, and is an extension of the Ginger Jar on Fourth Street.
“My grandfather Curt Carlson had a trading post here, so I’m following in his footsteps,” McClellan-Swope said. “I collect a lot of vintage items, and this is some of the overflow.”
The 1,000-square-foot space is a gallery of merchandise she categorizes as “retro-boutique.” By the way, “shabby chic” is aged furniture with a cottage-style decor that has an antique appearance.
The store features some nice custom-built furniture including tables and chairs, desks, cedar chests, wooden benches and handsomely refurbished hutches and cabinetry. There is also a nicely restored Charter Oak stove.
The work of local artisans and craftsmen are featured throughout the store.
Kathleen Rayburn repurposed wooden pallets into a charming child’s bench and wine rack. Stylish quilts made by Virginia Robertson are displayed throughout. And custom aprons by Donna Brace will brighten any kitchen.
There are colorful Mexican dishware, fantastic steins and unique baking items, including a jello mold in the shape of a fish.
A collection of designer dolls by Annalee make for good Christmas gifts as do a variety of teddy bears, interesting books, specialty soaps, and framed artwork.
McClellan-Swope’s employees, known as the Fourth Street Girls, help stock the new store.
“We are all creative and love to travel and shop for classic items,” she said.
Part of her motivation is to promote more local businesses.
“Dolores needs more stores, so it becomes more of a shopping destination with a lot of choices,” she said, adding that her prices are affordable, and she does consignment.
“When my granddad owned this he was a wheeler and dealer, and I will also wheel and deal!”
The store is at 202 S. Fourth St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and the phone number is (970) 882-2550.