The Jewelry Cafe: More Than Just A Jewelry Store

There are very few stores that I like to frequent, but when I do you know it is because they have something amazing to offer. The Jewelry Café (TJC) is one of those stores where not only are the products unique but Laura Brown, the owner, is one of the most warmest and endearing women I know. From the first day I set foot in her store, she has always be a wealth of information and ideas, especially when it comes to gifts.

From the minute you walk in, you are greeted with a calming and relaxing atmosphere that makes shopping with her a pleasure. From the lilac purple tones around the room, to the warm atmosphere and incredible craftsmanship, you an easily get hooked easily on coming to her store.

Laura is right when she says, “We pride ourselves on providing our customers the very best we can find in local, regional and national craft”. Quality is more than just a word to her; it is the heart and soul of what she puts into her store.

But I do have to say, that my favorite thing is the wide selection of handcrafted jewelry. From silver to gold, to whimsical as well as classical variations, I am always impressed. Or I should say, fall in love. I always walk out with a wish list for my husband with at least 2 or 3 pieces of jewelry listed. And as an artist and one time jewelry maker, it takes a lot to impress me.

This week when I arrived, though, there was some thing more. There at the front door was the most beautiful hand knitted children’s purple poncho with the coolest fuzzy color and trim. Beside this were mittens and hats, all made by a retired older woman. Cozy and soft to the touch, I am sure they are just as lovely to wear. But one glance around the room and I knew I was doomed and I had to keep going because I could see out of the corner of my eye, all sorts of new jewelry pieces to explore.

And while I will admit, that when I first stated coming to her store, it was because of the beautiful handcrafted jewelry, there are now so many other items that have peaked my interest. Like the ceramics with hummingbirds all over them. Or the glass containers and night-lights. My wish list for my husband is going to be huge this year. Laura says that “This year we are excited to feature locally handcrafted gourmet products such as Winding Drive jams & jellies, Three Sisters Farms Honey and beeswax products, The Olive Oil. Add to this, Factory, Halliday Harvest Barn dips & dessert mixes, which pair nicely with an antique, hand stamped spreader or locally made dish” and she has really brought a whole new dimension to this down home store.

Laura has grown this store to be so much more than just a handcrafted jewelry store. From candles, scarves, signs, gourmet chocolates, glassware, bath & body products from Provence, France, to locally made Goatboy soaps, fingerless gloves, hand knit baby items, night lights, clocks and so much more! And best of all, there are items for almost any budget including many items that are $20 and under!

In fact, one of my favorite new items that she has brought in is the one of a kind little tag charms that can be put on necklaces, bracelets & key rings. They range from about $20 to $30. Laura is helping to create a special piece for my 21-year old daughter who loves Dragon Flies, Lotus Flowers and the Ohm symbol.

But it is not just the artistry that you will love. I guess one of the best features of her store is the personal service she provides. She listens to you and then helps to point you in the right direction. And when it comes time to purchase, well, each item is wrapped with love, plus she makes sure to include additional information about each 
artist. Sometimes, you even get an amazing candy treat to go with it. This years treats just melt in your mouth. No I am not going to give away what they are. You will just have to come in and see for yourself.

So if you have not been to TJC, or it has been a while, I would strongly suggest taking the time to stop by. And afterwards, you can pop in to Julio’s Wood Fired Pizza and Grill next door. Don’t forget the Bruschetta.

For more information on TJC please go to www.thejewelrycafe.com and check out their live video of the store! You can also Order online or stop by – they’d love to meet you!