Mention the words "local" and "handmade" in the same sentence, and I'm likely to show up to whatever is happening. That was the case today when I learned earlier in the week about the supa summa craft market at the Flying M Coffeegarage in downtown Nampa.
Nampa, you say? Yes, let's go for a walk around downtown Nampa and see what we find. Did anyone else grow up with an 88 cent store in their town?
I saw this sign and immediately recalled the worn hardwood floors and the tinkling bell of the store that graced a corner of the small Oregon town I grew up in. Of course, the store longer exists, but it's still fun to see a vestige of days gone by.
Around the block, I stopped in to check out the wares on display at Urban Shed, a large consignment shop with contemporary and antique finds.
It's the building as much as the contents that will draw you in. Far in the back, I found a small glass dish to catch my keys and sunglasses when I step in the door at home.
Across the street, it was the handmade jewelry that attracted my attention at the Brass Razoo Boutique.
And once I was there, I was drawn in by the artful and clever displays of both furniture and clothing. By the time you reach the back of the store, you won't feel like you're in Nampa anymore, but a chic boutique that has recently garnered national attention.
I like the eclectic heartbeat that downtown Nampa has. I've seen traditional downtowns struggle in every area I've lived in, and it's encouraging to see this growing revival of boutiques. Sure, you can find both the hip and the ordinary, but more importantly, you can support local and handmade.
Some places to check out on your own walk around downtown Nampa:
Brass Razoo Boutique
115 13th Avenue South
Flying M Coffeegarage
1314 2nd Street South
Retro Connection
1305 2nd Street South
Urban Shed
120 13th Avenue South
The White Pine Boutique
1306 2nd Street South
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