heliotrope

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Heliotrope
When it comes to trolling for gifts and accessories, it only takes seconds for me to assess a store’s “cool factor.” On most occasions, after a quick scan for something unique, charming, or rare, I am overcome by a curdling in my gut can mean only one thing – nothing worthwhile lives within these narrow rows of clutter and disarray. I’ll receive a pretend emergency call on my cell phone, politely thank the store clerk, and exit the store – quickly fleeing the scene of my own pretext.
I found Heliotrope Home Store nestled between two cosmopolitan apparel boutiques on Decatur’s main drag of store fronts. Heliotrope is one of many boutiques, bars, and restaurants located in Decatur’s thriving business district. Decatur, one of Atlanta’s most popular suburban neighborhoods, is known for its walk-ability, its flux of new businesses, and desirable craftsman-style homes.
Even when a store comes as highly recommended as Heliotrope, I hold all hopes at bay. So, I embraced my well-earned skepticism, I gripped the cold, stainless steel vertical door pull, and entered. Immediately, my pulse quickened. Rarely do I step into a store and have so many items speak to me. Messenger bags, loft-friendly art, funky, functional lamps, ceramic sushi sets, designer pottery, pure soy candles – the merchandise ranges from the sublime to the quirky and back again.
According to owners Thomas Barker and Marc Reynolds, “heliotrope is a type of flower” who’s translated Greek name means a tendency to turn “toward the sun.” Aptly named, any of these items will surely warm the heart of any lucky gift-recipient. Though there are hundreds (thousands) of treasures from which to choose, the space doesn’t feel overwhelming or claustrophobic. Indeed, everything sits pretty at Heliotrope. In no certain order, here are some favorites:
• Monstrously cute, Über-chic, Ugly Dolls. www.uglydolls.com
• Writer’s Toolbox: Creative Games and Exercises for Inspiring the “Write” Side of
the brain. Kit contains booklet and cards. www.greenapplebooks.com
• Super stylistic and functional “Puddle Jumper” gym bag from www.lugtravel.com.
• Johnathan Adler’s matte white glaze giant bird bowl. www.jonathanadler.com
• Manchurian Dragon Fruit Kobo candle made from pure soy wax. www.kobocandles.com
• Sophisticated, photographic, vinyl shower curtains by Izola.
• Summer totes and messenger bags by www.bungalow.com.

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