Shopping

A Shopping Retreat

Irresistible jewelry and more in Wickford

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A stroll down Brown Street in Wickford is a treat in itself, but when you happen down it during the breathtaking season of fall, you experience its picture-perfect surroundings in a whole new light.

The fresh, crisp sky is the delightful backdrop to the playful trees that boast jewel toned leaves along the gently worn sidewalks, and sumptuous smells of spice and cinnamon linger in the air. There’s a peaceful stillness that surrounds this enchanting village and with the kids now settled back in school, it’s my ideal escape – a place for a little “me” time.

When you’re raising eight kids like I am, the phrase “me” time is almost laughable, but I’ve gotten very creative over the past 20 years in finding ways to get refreshed and re-energized without having to spend a fortune or stray very far from home. During desperate times I hide behind the shower curtain, (fully clothed!) and quietly eat a bag of chocolate chips. But when I can grab an hour or two to myself, I head to a location that is welcoming, fun to browse and offers up an easy-breezy vibe so by the time I leave, I feel as though I just had a mini retreat.

JW Graham is one of my nearby getaways that never disappoints. One of Wickford’s iconic shopping spots, JW Graham is a household name to locals because it’s been in town since 1980. Still a family-owned business, Palmer and Julie Beebe have owned and managed the popular store since 1997 and are responsible for an incredible selection of American-handcrafted gifts and jewelry.

Two of their biggest names – Alex and Ani and Pandora have been staples in the store for years – even before they were popular throughout the rest of the country. But it’s the line of Lenny & Eva, a gorgeous collection of leather bracelets with interchangeable sentiments such as “Grow Love,” “Believe,” “Sparkle” and dozens more that catch my eye.

“The Lenny & Eva collection is like the Alex and Ani of the South,” explains Julie with a burst of positive energy. “The messages portrayed in their jewelry plaques are to inspire women of all ages and all walks of life. It’s definitely one of our most popular lines.”

Another note of interest is that the majority of the merchandise in JW Graham is American made, and many from local artisans such as a special line of bracelets by M Kindred. Each bracelet has a handmade card with an inspired message and the design of the charms and beads are totally soothing.

Though there’s lots of sparkle and shine amongst the assorted displays, what is really standout about JW Graham’s jewelry, is that not only is it beautiful and eye-catching, but there is definite meaning and purpose incorporated into the majority of every bracelet, bangle, necklace and more. “People can really connect with one another through the energy that is woven into the various charms, stones, messages and styles that we offer,” gushes Julie.

In addition to the inspired jewelry there are items galore that you aren’t likely to find anyplace else. I am one of those girly-girl types who loves a good fragrance, so I couldn’t resist the delicious and clever scents from the “I Am” line. In keeping with the store’s thoughtprovoking jewelry messages, you can choose your fragrance based on your current mood –” I Am Blessed” or “I am Free” – and yes, you can even spritz on a little “I am Naughty.” And for those of you looking for a little lift in your bra – you won’t want to miss their “Boob Job” take-out collection – trust me!

Four years ago JW Graham split into two and opened their Yes! Gallery across the street. Here they showcase unusual and eclectic handcrafted gifts and home décor. Well-known for their upside down Christmas tree that is displayed year round with colorful and whimsical ornaments, I am completely enchanted by the artfully designed mirrors, wall clocks, one-of-a-kind plaques and hand painted furniture.

There is a definite Zen-like feel to both stores and with new inventory arriving regularly, there is always something new and wonderful to discover. Unusual for Wickford, both stores stay open until 7pm on weeknights. Owner Julie Beebe is also thrilled to unveil something exciting happening right around the corner for their business – they’ve been invited to become a part of the prestigious shoptiques.com. “We do offer some on-line shopping on our own website, but being a part of shoptiques.com is an honor because they searched the country and found us. This is great for us and for the community because it puts Wickford on the map,” she says proudly.

My mini-getaway to JW Graham/Yes! Gallery too quickly comes to an end, but I leave feeling revitalized and even a bit giddy. When you’re heading out to enjoy the local harvest, be sure and stop in at JW Graham to enjoy this fun, laid-back shopping atmosphere. It’s definitely more than a shop – it’s a shopping retreat.

JW Graham/Yes! Gallery | 26 Brown Street, Wickford | 295-0757

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