In the Kitchen: Kendra Ovesen Unveils Wickford Kitchen + Table

For decades, Wickford Gourmet and Factory Outlet has been a staple in the heart of historic Wickford Village, offering a wide assortment of kitchen essentials and foodie finds. When former owners Joe and Donna Dubé decided they were ready to retire after 41 years in business, their heartfelt farewell interview in Edible Rhody caught the attention of longtime retailer Kendra Ovesen. “They said they were closing at the end of 2022,” she recalls, “but if the right buyer happened along, they would be willing to sell. I couldn’t dial the phone fast enough!”

By the end of April 2023, Ovesen officially took over as co-owner and buyer, determined to build upon the store’s celebrated reputation while infusing it with her fresh perspective. “It’s a dream come true,” she says. “I’ve always dreamed of having my own shop. I knew at a young age I wanted to work in retail. I majored in design and merchandising, and now, 35 years later, here I am co-owner of a legacy business! I have the opportunity to continue a business that means so much to this community.”

Under Ovesen’s leadership and with the support of her team, the shop is undergoing an exciting transformation with a new name, Wickford Kitchen + Table, debuting this month, along with a fresh coat of paint and a new sign. The rebrand is a tribute to the shop’s origins and its evolution, reflecting its continued dedication to kitchen goods and tabletop essentials. “Our vision is to lean in on the successes and foundations that Joe and Donna built and expand upon top-selling categories,” Ovesen explains. “We’re introducing new innovative products and new vendors, especially small, local businesses.”

Wickford Kitchen + Table sets itself apart from big-box retailers with its thoughtfully curated selection of items, brands, and customer service. From commercial restaurant-quality cookware to artisanal tableware, every product is chosen with both function and beauty in mind. A stroll around the shop reveals items from around the world – handmade American ceramics, specialty knives from France, ceramic cast iron braziers and Dutch ovens from Brazil, smokeless and dripless candles from Denmark, and sustainable printed table linens from Lithuania. The inventory also features regional makers, including Narragansett Chocolates, Newport Sea Salt, Couleur Nature linens, de Buyer cookware, and more.

“I like to think we celebrate from oven to table,” Ovesen explains. “We provide the essentials for home cooks to create their masterpieces, but just as important is offering beautiful tabletop pieces to showcase their hard work and delicious creations. As they say, presentation is everything.”

As the store steps into its new identity, Ovesen and her team have big plans. A stronger social media presence will invite customers to follow the shop’s journey, and community engagement is a top priority, with plans for fun in-store events, a bridal registry, and potential expansions into home
categories or services.

But for now, Ovesen remains focused on curating an exceptional selection of unique finds and ensuring that the two-story building on West Main Street continues to be a favorite destination for home cooks, food lovers, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of a well-set table. “We want to grow the business and strengthen our bond with the Wickford Village community,” she says. “This store has always been special, and we’re honored to carry that forward.”

Wickford Kitchen + Table

21 W Main Street, Wickford

401-294-8430