Roanoke Shopper

Need Houseplants? Try Mike's Country Market!

In searching for nice greenery to place around the house, I stopped by Mike's Country Market located at 4330 Brandon Avenue on Saturday.  Hearing through the grapevine that they would have exactly what I was looking for, I made the drive.  Mike's is located in the City of Roanoke; however, very close to the Salem line. 

Pleasantly surprised by the selection, Mike's has a good inventory of plants, and reasonably priced!  The Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), an excellent plant for indoor use and easily identified by it's yellow-marbled heart-shaped leaves, was available in three different size pots to include a hanging basket and three varieties.  The most common, “Golden Pothos” is most often used in interior businesses.  Two other varieties are “marble queen” featuring a streaky white on green leaf and “jade” which is totally green.  Pothos continues to be popular as it can tolerate lower light, lower humidity and cooler temperatures than other plants.

The ivies (Hedera) found in Mike's greenhouse were attractive, some variegated, some large leafed and some small leafed, some edged in white, others in gold.  A nice selection! Most  ivies  grow best in bright light, but not direct sun. They tolerate low to medium light, but growth is reduced and variegated forms may turn all green. To maintain the bright color of a variegated ivy, give it plenty of light.  Ivies can be grown with artificial light, or near a north, east or west window.

Mike's is a good stop if you are on the market for houseplants to add a bit of pizazz to your home.  I've mentioned just a few...there are many to choose from at this charming country store located in the City of Roanoke.

For more information, conatact (540) 989-2716.

One City Plaza Suites Offer Downtown Living with Spectacular Views

I was invited to drop by and visit the new residential rental units located atop of One City Plaza in downtown Roanoke.  Located at 312 2nd Street, SW above Blue 5 Restaurant, these residential units occupy floors 4 and 5 of the building.  The 7 units range in size from 900 s.f. to 1,700 s.f. with 11 foot ceilings.  There are 1 & 2 bedroom units, a handicapped equipped unit and studio apartments featuring 1 and 2 baths, high efficiency heat pumps, and central air. 

The views from these units are amazing and are what make One City Plaza Suites appealing.  Additionally, the large windows, tasteful countertops, hardwood floors,  and state of the art security system lend these units as attractive rental options for downtown living.  They are also ideal for local corporations seeking corporate apartments.

For more information, individuals may contact 540.588.5159 or 540.797.9657.

Present Thyme Offers Unique Shopping Experience

On my visit to Towers Mall today, I was lured into Present Thyme simply by the fascinating window displays.  Located on the lower level of Towers at 1016 23rd Street, Present Thyme offers a wonderful collection of eclectic furnishings, accessories, linens, fine art and clothing.  The southwest city store is Roanoke's own version of ABC Home & Carpet in New York City...unusual, one of a kind goods for the home, or, for you!

The owner, Liz Barudin has a terrific eye when it comes to buying for her store.  I  noticed a few new lines being carried by the retailer.  A display of geometrically designed, tapered candles handmade by the women of South Africa...very colorful with great designs, making a terrific gift for friends!  Also, there are beautiful metallic crosses to be used as "sit arounds" for tables or bookshelves,  hand crafted by a Houston artisan.  The Greg Osterhaus paintings continue to brighten the walls of Present Thyme bringing character to each room display.  And the clothes and jewelry are stunning!

My favorites for the day were an amazing pine hutch, large enough to accommodate several china patterns and beautiful silk bed linens.  Gotta have them!

If you've not previously made Present Thyme a stop in your day, well...there's no time like the present!  You won't be disappointed.

Happy Shopping!

Jack Rogers Comes to Roanoke for Spring & Summer

I was in Dandelion Feet the other day and noticed their exquisite new line up for spring and summer.  Of special interest were the Jack Rogers sandals.  A family-run business based out of Hallandale, FL, Jack Rogers has been making these popular shoes for decades.   A bit preppy and one of those "got to have them," it was fashion icon Jackie Kennedy that made these leather hand-made sandals famous.  Not only were the sandals a favorite, but Mrs. Kennedy wore her Jack Rogers to mass on Palm Sunday in 1963! 

These Navajo classics are named for the Native American whipped-stitch look...an inspiration for "Miss Navajo." This easy to love look comes in all colors and can go casual or elegant.

Take a look...Dandelion Feet is located on the Historic Farmer's Market in downtown Roanoke at 108 Church Avenue, SE.  Or, if you're not a downtown shopper, be sure and check out the fine Jack Rogers selection at Bush-Flora Shoes, located on the upper level of Towers Mall in southwest Roanoke.

Roanoke Retailer Brings Valentine's Wish Night!

310 Rosemont, one of Roanoke's finest boutiques featuring ladies and men's apparel, invites shoppers to their Wish List evening.  The event will be held tonight, Wednesday, February 6 from     6 - 8 pm at their 312 Market Street location on the Historic Farmer's Market in downtown Roanoke.  Come by and make a list for your Sweetheart...just to make their shopping for you a bit easier (plus you get what you want!).  Or, pick up a special gift for your very own Sweetheart.   The selection is amazing and you're sure to find something that pleases that special someone~see you there!