Shop Talk: New Spots to Splurge at the Beach

Whether you’re looking for sunflowers or souvenirs, these coastal boutiques have got you covered.

 

ROSES AND POSIES

For more proof that there’s retail life on the bay side of the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal, pop into Floral Inspirations, which opened a storefront in the Beacon Motel building. It’s great for couples who plan to wed on Lewes Beach. Owner Ken Norman has received Philadelphia Flower Show awards. Since the shop is near Peninsula Gallery, you can soothe your sense of sight and smell in one fell swoop. ••  524 E. Savannah Road, Lewes, 703-1009

 

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SANTAS BY THE SEA

Christmas Tree Shops andThat! are now open next to PetSmart. Both stores are part of the redeveloped Kmart site. Despite the holiday name, you’ll find a variety of home accessories. • 19563 Coastal Hwy., Suite 3, Rehoboth Beach, 226-07195

Retail has come full circle for Christmas Spirit, which moved from 161 Rehoboth Ave. to 129 Rehoboth Ave., where it was once housed for 20 years. You can stock up on holiday cheer and beach souvenirs. The shop sells both.  129 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth, 227-6872

 

ON THE MOVE

The Christmas Tree Shop isn’t the only store enjoying new digs. Edgewater Apparel Co., also known as Edgewater Men’s Wear, has moved from Baltimore Avenue to Rehoboth Avenue. You’ll find everything you need for the sharp-dressed man. • 125 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, 227-0100

The Ruff Life has moved to a larger space on Baltimore Avenue to better accommodate owner Sara England’s ever-growing collection of whimsical dog and cat designs. England has an uncanny eye for accuracy. Credit time spent on the dog show circuit, where she sold her art before settling down at the beach. The purebreds might look realistic, but the settings are whimsical. The playful pups sip martinis and wine or crack crabs. • 46 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, (301) 685-1239

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In Lewes, Mandie’s Magical Marketplace on the lower level of Hotel Rodney expanded last year. A psychic-medium and healer, owner Mandie Stadler sells stones, herbs and spiritual products. She also teaches classes, holds monthly moon gatherings on Lewes Beach and makes regular appearances at the Milton Theatre. • 142 Second St., Lewes, 858-3859

Cape Henlopen Wicker and Rattan has moved from Del. 1 to Milton next to the new library. • 113 Union St., 644-2000

 

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM FOUR FRIENDS

The old site of Cape Henlopen Wicker has a new life. Michelle Long, Ashlee Marie Lessner, Kelly Claire and Brynn Byerly have teamed up to turn the former Sandy Brae Stables, just off Del. 1, into Willow Marie & Co. The shop features home accessories and women’s and children’s clothing. But it’s no ordinary boutique. The site is also an event venue. • 18422 Coastal Hwy., Lewes, 632-0831 

 

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SHOPPING AT THE SQUARE

The Long Neck-Millsboro area is experiencing a growth spurt. There are new communities under construction. But come summer, it can be challenging to travel Del. 24 into Rehoboth. The new Taormina Square, therefore, meets a need for local services.

Taormina is home to the largest of the five Blooming Boutique stores. It’s also the new residence of Blooming Boutique’s sister store, Treasures, which also has a Lewes location. All the businesses are owned by Michiko Seto. 

 

VINTAGE FINDS, COMICS AND COLLECTIBLES

Most beach areas are known for hidden treasures such as antiques and collectible shops. The Delaware coast is no different. Milton residents Kristin and Justin Sinnott last fall opened Ogre’s Grove, which sells comic books, handmade jewelry, artwork and hard-to-find collectibles. • 129 Union St., Milton, 643-2125

Fiestaware—not comics—is more in keeping with the type of treasures you’ll find at Sassy Chic, west of Five Points in Lewes. The rooms of an old farmhouse are filled with vintage finds and local artist’s work, including photographs and repurposed frames by owner Lynn Misener and her husband, Keith. • 28947 Lewes Georgetown Hwy, Lewes, 542-7445

The Brush Factory on Kings has only been open for a year, but the home goods store—featuring unique furniture, art, clothing and vintage items—already has a vendor waiting list. The shop boasts new merchandise daily. • 830 Kings Hwy., Lewes, 703-7715

 

FOR THE LOVE OF ART

Last year, the Dewey Artist Collaboration found a permanent home in Rehoboth Beach near Revelation Craft Brewing Company. The headquarters is also a store with works by local jewelry-makers, glassblowers and other artists. • 19817 Hebron Road, Rehoboth Beach, 703-9822

Also new is CraftBOX. Walk in and take your pick of projects. Make your own pin, for instance, or suncatcher. Or, buy supplies and take them home. • Village of Fenwick, 300 Coastal Hwy., Shoppe 4, Fenwick Island, (484) 369-9660

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