MARYSVILLE The newest store to open in downtown is Gatherings, an antique and furnishings store located on the north side of Third Street in the historic part of Marysville.
Owners Carol Rochon and Jana Demaris shy away from labeling their shop an antique store, because they do offer relics but they also offer new furnishings and those designed to look like antiques.
Its an interior store, Rochon explained. We carry interior case goods. Its a combination of new and vintage and antique. Were not purist by any means, we have a look, thats all.
The 2,000-square-feet are filled with elaborate and luxurious decorating touches, from wall sconces, art work and antique china or glassware. The duo also work on the rare finds, refurbishing old chandeliers, even rewiring them and replacing crystals.
Our range is antique French and Italian, some of it very ornate, Rochon said We go over magazines and we drool over pictures. Its a look and feel we like.
The marble top sideboard in the front bears a gilt crucifix and two pewter chalices. Further back a trio of carved nymphs or cupids support a glass-topped coffee table. They are carved out of a deep wood and shine in the light. Other art prints are made from aged newspapers and prints, distressed to appear vintage. Stacks of fine French soaps from Marseilles bear the imprint of their maker, stacked in pyramids and wrapped in twine. Rochon and Demaris went to school together but didnt socialize then, but now their mutual hobbies have taken on lives of their own.
Elly Osborn of Everett was taking her two daughters on a day trip. Christina Delacruz lives in Marysville and her sibling Tammy Goree was down from Lynden for the day.
It looks like we went to another country, Delacruz said as she marveled at the offerings. I think everythings really reasonably priced.
Osborn said she regularly visits places like Snohomish and La Conner to stroll the many antique stores and might include Marysville on the list, as next door is antique mall Finders Keepers. She bought some exotic matches at Gatherings.
Im always looking at everything, Osborne said.
Her fellow retailers welcomed the addition, especially now that a Mexican bakery has opened up next door, two boarded-up spaces are now filled with active tenants.
Gatherings, The French Wives Finds is located at 1515 Third St., Marvsville. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday and closed Sunday. Phone: 360-659-9729.