Ooh, La La: Antiques and Boutiques on Kentucky Street

For a WCC experience, there is nothing like a day spent on Kentucky Street in Petaluma. Today, I found myself starting at my favorite antique store on the avenue: Summer Cottage Antiques. First impressions remind you a lot of grandma's collection of tea cups and figurines. But if you dig deeper, you'll find some real treasures. I fell in love with this mini pink chandelier, and the mini white busts (can't you just see them holding some great jewelry around their necks?). Bling Bling. How about this white furry tree for a girl's garden theme bedroom, draped with hairbows, butterflies and feathered friends?

My ultimate favorite stop for tableware and linens with serious style is I Leoni. Here you will find a truly wonderful selection of beautiful things for your special occasion table. I once contemplated opening a store called 'Prelude' specializing in just these treasures, but the owner of I Leoni beat me to it. I forgive her because she has quite an eye for really lovely pieces. On display is a marvelous spring table in blues and greens. I particularly like the little pepper mills lined up in a row, like steadfast tin soldiers. In the rear, I Leoni offers cookware and specialty chef items for any food lover. This is also a bride's place to register for her culinary essentials.



Mayfield and Co. is a newer furniture shop on Kentucky street with really breezy furniture pieces. What is nicer than an elegant sofa slipcovered in linen? I stopped in my tracks at the sight of the queen tufted headboard, and j'adored those little lovebird hourglasses. There were notable accessories displayed on the coffee table and sideboards as well.

Starstruck is an L.A. style boutique for really unique and trendy clothing. The owner, Melanie, is hip to the fashion scene, and has a great eye for design. The aubergine hued rear dressing area is quite the spot to play like you're a part of Fashion Week. Melanie also makes much of the fantastic jewelry featured in her store.

Anyone who loves stationery is sure to love Paperwhites. There are lots of elegant and eclectic choices if you're looking for a special notecard or gift. We do have a Papyrus in town, but this store is extra special.

Caravan Imports is hip, youthful, global, and fun. You want something beaded? Here's the place. I've bought handbags and picture frames as gifts here, and you can't beat the prices. You can get out of here with something special for under $20.

After Caravan Imports, cross Western Avenue, and Kentucky Street turns into Fourth Street. Stop and see the long time native of Petaluma: Heebe Jeebe. What can I say? This place is wacky, and loveable. There is no shortage of quirky and funky, knick knacks and gag gifts, to browse here. Something in this place tends to make me grin every time I walk in, whether it's the plastic goldfish chandelier, or the retro bank collection, which would brighten any cubicle. Ride "The Champion" horse out in front of the store, or pop into the retro photobooth for a laugh.

I am not a knitter, but there's something about Knitterly. This store has a great vibe, and is worth just a looky loo, even if you don't know your braided cable from your mock cable. If you'd like to learn the difference, or simply take a class, stop in to this low key hangout for crafty knitters, with zen music playing and mellowed out staff always willing to assist. A bit of WCC envy: I am crazy about the groovy 10 foot tall iron tree behind the Knitterly register. I envision it outdoors in my courtyard, draped with twinkle lights and lanterns.

Nan Winters is the place all the local gals go for a special event. These are one-of-a-kind designer dresses, and there are no department store finds here. Nan also has an exquisite collection of bridal gowns in off-white hues. Nothing frou frou, only the elegance that comes from a bit of beading and embroidery, or the grace you'll find with some tasteful lace. If I was tying the knot all over again, I'd come here first.

My favorite home accessories shop in all of Petaluma is Tuscan Gardens. Sharon and Rose have been on the corner of Fourth and B Street for 9 years now, and I can't leave this place without buying something, especially in the summertime when she has an amazing selection of garden decor. She carries Vietri, which is a favorite of mine. Her collection of birdfeeders is beautiful, and I've purchased several of these as gifts for friends.

To get to Kentucky Street, follow Paperwhite's link here. Coming soon is a review of the best shopping on the nearby Petaluma Boulevard.