Shop Local: Gift Giving

Spread Holiday Cheer at Local Shops

Ready or not, the holiday shopping season is upon us. Never fear, we have plenty of great local shops offering a wide variety of gifts for everyone on your list, and for every budget. From jewelry and fine fashion to home décor and specialty items for the little ones, our Shop Local section can help you fill in the blanks for giving or receiving.

Not only do our local stores provide unique, thoughtful options for holiday cheer, they also provide a path to break away from the hustle and bustle, plus an opportunity to meet your neighbors. Shopping local for the holidays is a gift that truly keeps on giving as those dollars stay in the community and spread cheer many times over.

Yacoubian Tailors

721 Broad St. • 265-0187

www.yacoubians.com

Tailoring the perfect fit for customers is easy for Yacoubian Tailors' owner and master tailor John Yacoubian. For 40 years, he has kept careful measure of his business's success and says, "as a result, garments, whether made or purchased in the store, fit properly." The premier destination for custom tailoring also offers ready-to-wear clothing from top designers including Ermenegildo Zenga, Zanella, Bianca and Kay Unger.

Persian Rug Company

917 E. 16th St. • 475-5222

www.persianrugtrader.com

Like the antique and new oriental rugs it sells, Persian Rug Company is a tightly woven family affair, having welcomed customers locally since the 1920s. A vast selection of handmade rugs in brightly colored patterns from China, India, Pakistan and Persia is available at the recently expanded store. The company also offers expert cleaning and repair of oriental rugs.

Rone Regency Jewelers

1950 Gunbarrel Road • 894-1188

www.roneregencyjewelers.com

Rone Regency Jewelers marries quality with service and selection, as it has for 67 years. That reputation has brought many client referrals, including celebrities and sports figures, according to owner Bob Mason. Every client is presented a sparkling array of sizes, shapes and qualities of diamonds and colored gemstones. Pick from more than 500 ring designs or create your own. The only limit is the customer's imagination, says Mason.

REVIVAL Uncommon Goods

1110 Market St., Suite 109 • 265-2656

www.revivaluncommongoods.com

Uncommon items, indeed, are found among Continental antiques, upholstery, lighting and luxury gifts at REVIVAL Uncommon Goods. "Whether assisting clients who are exploring their own design sensibility, or collaborating with architects and interior designers to flesh out their visions, REVIVAL's uncommon goods do indeed inspire," say proprietors Rodney Simmons and Billy Woodall about the unique curatorialstyle that collapses the border between Old World and modern elements.

Chrysalis

1401 14th St. • 521-4731

A decorator's dream is just through the doors of Chrysalis, a shop located in the beautiful and historic Southside. "Ever had that feeling you didn't know what you're looking for?" asks owner Todd Murphy, before explaining customers' knack for finding just the right elegant gift or décor option at Chrysalis. The shop offers a breezy, energetic vibe and an ever-changing stock of unique treasures to breathelife into a home.

Plum Nelly Shop and Gallery

330 Frazier Ave., Suite 104 • 266-0585

www.plumnellyshop.com

Owned and operated by women since 1948 when it was a clothesline art show, Plum Nelly Shop & Gallery has always been a great place to find extraordinary gifts. Besides its unique array of local and regional products including original art, jewelry and stunning gift items, "we offer bridal and gift registry, as well as gift wrapping and shipping services," says Catharine Bahner Daniels, who owns the business.

N2 Shoes

113 Frazier Ave. • 475-6566

www.n2shoes.com

Variety is the heart and 'sole' of n2 shoes. "We want to be eclectic in our brands and have a variety of price points to meet all our customers' budget in a world of economic change," says owner Alison Songer. The continually growing selection includes newer brands and styles, like Toms slip-ons and Jambu's environmentally friendly designs, as well as trendy to earth-friendly jewelry and handbags.

The Furniture Shoppe and The Patio Shop

1903 E. 24th St. Place • 493-7630 (furniture) www.thefurnitureshoppe.net

493-7629 (patio) • www.thepatioshop.com

Fowler Brothers Company is one of the oldest family-owned companies in the country and is still operated by the Fowler family today. Boasting 126 years since it opened its doors, the company now has two very unique stores under the same roof - The Furniture Shoppe and The Patio Shop. "We offer the finest selection of indoor and outdoor furniture in the Southeast at the lowest prices everyday," says co-manager Carter Fowler.

Pilates Chattanooga

1110 Market St., Suite 213

493-0775 • www.pilateschattanooga.com

Colleen Carboni has been helping tone clients for more than five years in private, small apparatus classes and group mat classes. Experienced instructors train to each individual's goals and needs in the new professionally equipped Pilates Chattanooga studio in Warehouse Row. "Pilates offers amazing benefits for everyone and we are on a mission to help Chattanooga stand up straighter," says Carboni.

Wiggle Worm

345 Frazier Ave., Suite 101 • 756-8181

tina@wigglewormbaby.com

Now owned by the daughter-in-law/ father-in-law team of Tina Close and Don Close, Wiggle Worm continues its seven-year tradition of providing custom products and services for infants and young children. Tina says she enjoys helping her customers get just what they are looking for, whether it's shoes and apparel or custom nursery items. In a new location on Frazier Avenue, the owners plan to expand their online offerings and open a second location in the region.

Sushi Nabe

110 River St. • 634-0171

www.sushinabechattanooga.com

Sushi lovers are thrilled at Sushi Nabe, where tastes range from traditional to Chattanooga eclectic. The Junior League, Roll Tide Roll, Surf and Turf, Eagle and Dragon rolls are among manifestations of sushi master Yasushi Watanabe's exceptional talent. Each unique creation is prepared with fish flown in daily from East and West Coast markets including Hawaii. Watanabe's secret vinegar, sugar and salt-blended rice recipe is the perfect complement.

Fischer Evans Jewelers

801 Market St. • 267-0901

www.fischerevansjewelry.com

Fischer Evans Jewelers "was the first to bring designer lines to Chattanooga" 142 years ago, says co-owner Becky Glover, and continues that tradition with its appealing selection of gifts for any age or occasion. "Since 1869, we have offered the finest service and products from around the world," Glover adds. A specially trained person can help select patterns and gifts, and free delivery is available for local brides.

The Galleries on Williams Street

1403 Williams St. • 521-4445

At The Galleries On Williams Street we love helping our customers select gifts or decorate their home. Our unique finds are reasonably priced and we always offer complimentary gift wrapping. We have new merchandise arriving weekly. Our shop offers a wide variety of items ranging from baby items to furniture and home décor to gourmet food items. We carry beautiful jewelry, handbags and scarves. Our Galleries... A dozen stores in one!

Banana Tree Organic Salon

6116 Shallowford Road, Suite 202 • 553-6773

www.bananatreesalon.com

Salongoers need not worry about harsh chemicals ruining their tresses at Banana Tree Organic Salon, the tri-state area's first organic salon. "I say every day that I have the best clients in the world," says owner Angela Oliver. "Many of them are cancer patients or pregnant, and it feels wonderful being able to do their hair without them worrying about the harmful chemicals."

Brody Jewelers

213 Chickamauga Ave., Rossville

706-866-3033

"If we don't have it, we'll find it for you," says Louis Brody, co-owner of Brody Jewelers. "That's why our customers keep coming back. We go the extra mile for them, and at good prices." Besides designer jewelry, the 73-year-old family business is known for its one-of-a-kind estate pieces. Hard work, quality merchandise and a friendly connection with the community are key ingredients to success, say family members.

Cansler Photography

850 Vine St. • 756-2681

info@canslerphotography.com

Brad Cansler's 19-year-old photography studio, Cansler Photography, specializes in family, engagement and children's portraiture. "We're known for creating an enjoyable experience, and consistently beautiful art instead of just snapping pictures and occasionally getting lucky," says Brad. "There is careful attention to every detail-clothing, location, lighting and expression. We design artwork that reflects the personalities of our subjects- in addition to recording what they look like."

Alice Blue

1306 Dorchester Road • 531-2120

www.aliceblueboutique.com

"Alice Blue fills a special niche in Chattanooga by providing things in all price ranges for women who want to feel stylish," says owner Kim Hobson, who recently opened the fashionable ladies' fine clothing store in Riverview. "We cater to the young professional, the busy mom and her daughter and the sophisticated lady!" Unrivalled customer service is among the store's goals. "We want everyone to feel welcome, have fun shopping and love her purchases," adds Kim.

Bruce Baird and Co.

735 Broad St. • 265-8821

www.brucebairdclothier.com

Bruce Baird & Co. has been dressing men for success locally since 1988. Whatever the occasion, the Broad Street retailer will have you arriving in style. Owner Bruce Baird says he often hears "how much people compliment [clients'] outfits." That most of his selection is American-made also causes a double-take. Clients can take home ready-to-wear pieces and accessories, or have shirts and sport coats custom-made.

Pure Barre Chattanooga

1414 Jenkins Rd. Suite 122 • 468-4960

Chattanooga@purebarre.com

It has been one year since Amanda Holmes opened Pure Barre Chattanooga, the first and only barre method workout in the Chattanooga area. "I had taken a class at another studio in a nearby city and loved the concept and what Pure Barre offered," says Holmes. The East Brainerd studio offers fun, safe, but intense workouts in a warm and open environment. Clients receive a lot of one-on-one attention during class from instructors that genuinely want to help them reach their goals.

Sophie's

401 N. Market St. • 756-8711

www.sophiesshoppe.com

"Nobody is ever a stranger here!" says Tamara Dillard, who, with her husband, Ryan, owns Sophie's, a six-year-old eclectic lifestyle boutique featuring everything from home accents and furniture to women's accessories and gifts. "You can find something inspiring, something unique, something thoughtful ... items you won't find everywhere." Before driving to Nashville or Atlanta, people should "try us out first!" she adds.

Stone Services

2601 E. 34th St. • 624-2905

www.stone-services.com

Large selections, quality products and unequalled experience are helping to put Stone Services on the map. Among notable milestones in the firm's seven-year history: relocation to a new facility with state-of-the-art equipment three years ago. "Our goal is to provide unmatched service to customers, to offer extremely competitive prices and to be the number one fabricator of granite and marble in the Chattanooga and Knoxville areas," says owner Tony Allen.

A Child's Garden Boutique

135 Frazier Ave. • 634-0822

achildsgardenbou@bellsouth.net

When Jeanne Trewhitt opened A Child's Garden Boutique seven years ago she wanted to create a fun, kid-friendly place to shop and she continues to tell stories of fairies and gnomes to all her dedicated customers. The store stocks clothing and gifts you won't find at other retailers and the prices are kept affordable. Jeanne hopes to add more space to carry more cute things as she continues searching for the most unique and fun items to offer her customers.

Learning Express Toys

313 Manufacturers Road, 643-8697

2115 Gunbarrel Road, 591-9999

marybeth@le298.com

As newcomers to Chattanooga four years ago, Mary Beth Conklin and her husband decided that opening Learning Express would be a great opportunity to bring terrific toys to Chattanooga and allow them to get involved in the community and meet new families. Her stores provide warm, personal service, innovative toys and an overall feeling of delight. Learning Express Toys offers a magical wonderland that will delight children of all ages. Special services include free personalization, free gift wrapping and a birthday and holiday gift registry.

Natural Body Spa and Shop

300 Broad St., 266-6288

1202 Hixson Pike, 756-2639

www.naturalbody.com

Chattanoogans who take their stress and body aches lying down ... on a masseuse table, can attest to the benefits of Natural Body. Owner Kelly Brock has been using the business's two locations to flesh out a holistic approach to health and beauty since 1997 and now her daughter, Mary Alice Brock, is carrying on the family tradition."We offer a relaxing getaway from stressful everyday life," Mary Alice says. "Our therapists, aestheticians and retail staff are all on hand to help show you how to improve your life in the most beneficial, natural, holistic way." The growing list of services and products both used and sold stress organic and fairtrade methods.

Haskell Interiors

85 First St., NE, Cleveland • 472-6409

www.haskellinteriors.com

Whether you plan to remodel a room or an entire home, a visit to Haskell Interiors' showroom will jump start your imagination. Showcasing contemporary cabinetry, furniture, fabric, tile, plumbing and wallcovering from around the world, the award-winning interior design firm has dazzled area clients for more than 22 years with remarkable and affordable solutions to challenging renovation issues. Haskell's kitchen and bathroom remodels have been featured in national magazines such as Southern Living and Signature Kitchens & Baths.

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