Cliff

Don’t get mauled at the mall!

Tucked away in North Wilmington is a hidden gem of a place called Bellefonte. Its brick lined sidewalks and old-fashioned street lamps provide a charming backdrop for the freshest and friendliest shopping district in the area.

More important than the ambiance are the women who own and operate these Brandywine Boulevard businesses.Approachable and genuine, these gals are welcoming to everyone who steps into their shops. If you are used to the treatment that passes for customer service at most retailers these days you will be refreshed and impressed at the personal care and attention you get at these fine shops. When was the last time a chain store offered to stay open a few more minutes because you were running late, or opened up at an odd hour because that was the only time you could get there?

Bellefonte’s Candlelight Shopping Nights are a perfect time to discover some great gifts for just about everyone on your holiday list. Held every Thursday in December, this stretch of the Boulevard will be lined with candles, with shops staying open until at least 8 o’clock, making it a perfect after work shopping destination. Many of the places listed below have extended holiday hours other days as well, so call up and plan a shopping date with your pals.

800½ Brandywine Boulevard is the new address for an old favorite-Eclectica (302-888-1824). A Bellefonte shop since September, this location is smaller than its previous incarnation in Trolley Square, but Joanna has filled the space with her signature assortment of whimsical, handmade and artistic items- and of course her own exuberant personality. Pick up a beaded bag just the right size for your cell phone or credit cards – just perfect for holiday parties.

Sacks Thrift Avenue (302-762-1702) also overflows with the friendly spirit of owner Sue Ellen and her sidekick Tip. Those who know clothes know that this is the place to find contemporary upscale and designer fashions at bargain prices, but they also carry a sassy assortment of “girlfriend gifts”. Sue Ellen brings back treasures from her west coast travels to ensure a unique product mix. From fun to frou-frou, you will find something here for the diva or red hat lady on your list.

Jennifer and Charlotte are the dynamic duo behind Belongings (302-764-8076) where you will find a constantly changing mixture of “junk, funk and spunk”. Almost ready to celebrate their first year in Bellefonte, you never know what you will find here, so check in often. Whether it is a thrift store find or something from a local artist, this is the place to go. Jennifer has a soft spot for vintage jewelry, so have a seat on the comfy couch and pick out something to doll up your next party outfit.

Right next door to these gals you will find Stephanie in her Dragon Queen’s Lair (302-764-4699). Another newcomer to Brandywine Blvd, her shop is the place to pick up some scented candles and learn about Wicca, palmistry and Tarot. Her assortment of metaphysical gifts and statuary are just right for the science-fiction fan on your list- and if you don’t see what you are looking for, just ask- if she has heard of it, Stephanie can probably get it for you.

At this point in your shopping you may need a little snack to keep you going. I highly recommend picking up a cookie or three at Sweets to You…by Ginger (302-762-3451). Though cakes are their specialty, everything in the case looks just divine – perfect little pick me ups to fuel even more shopping and discovering.

Cinnamon Stix and Blueberry Hill are two of the larger and more established resale shops in the shopping district and perfect places to scout out furniture and other large items. Holly at Cinnamon Stix (302-762-7849) carries a wonderful collection of hand painted furniture, and the back room is loaded with books and records- a great place to spend a nippy day. Teija at Blueberry Hill (302-765-2047) always has a fun assortment of affordable furnishings displayed in her side yard, and her house is loaded with vintage treasures and art. Her kitschy kitchen is the place to visit if you have any chefs or foodies to buy for.

No visit to this stretch of Brandywine Blvd would be complete without a stop at the Bellefonte Cafe (302-761-9175). Donna has transformed her once junk shop into a cozy and comfortable place to have a meal or just a really good cup of coffee. Take a load off your feet at put down your shopping bags here and explore the tchotchkes for sale in the many rooms – including the bathroom! If it is the weekend you may even get to hear some live acoustic music. Donna’s is another one of the places in Bellefonte where you feel like a friend as soon as you walk in the door.

This neightboorhood is not just for the holidays – the first Friday of every month finds this Bellefonte neighborhood playing host to a wonderfully active Art Loop. Shops are open into the early evening, highlighting works by local artists and craftspeople, refreshments are served, and a congenial party atmosphere enlivens the Boulevard. Stop by Bellefonte at anytime though- once you meet the folks and see the sights, you will bookmark this as a favorite local destination. Remember- tax free shopping doesn’t just exist at the mall!