_{Enjoy A Shopping Adventure}

One of the many stores in Shannon Mall where shoppers find quality merchandise

By Shar Peters

If you meet long-time residents of our area, they will almost certainly comment about our rapid growth and the changes they've seen. Some see this growth as increased opportunities, while others long for a return to the simpler, slower-paced life.

 

Regardless, there definitely has been an increase in area shopping choices. Take a day or two, gather up some friends, and search out the new, or reacquaint yourself with the tried and true places to shop. Make shopping the adventure it should be.

Whether you're looking for a stylish sweater for Fido, an heirloom quilt for Aunt Ruth, a designer handbag for yourself or an exotic plant for your patio, chances are you can find it in Coweta and Fayette counties.

You may have to do a little investigative shopping to find just what you're looking for, but, hey, the fun can be in the hunt. Stop into some of the new stores in strip malls, shopping centers or in older areas. You may be surprised what you'll find. Many of our stores are unique, interesting, exciting and even educational.

Robert Mucklow of Mucklow's Fine Jewelry

The well-known stores are usually easy to find and conveniently located. Many shoppers are thankful for traditional shopping malls, such as Shannon Mall, or the larger stores such as Target, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Kohl's and other familiar venues that have joined our communities. These retailers offer selection, price and convenience for busy shoppers. Located in ever-growing shopping areas in Fayetteville and Coweta counties, the parking lots often overflow when it's back-to-school time or the holidays.

Do you need to find a special gift? Across from the Braelinn Village Shopping Center on Crosstown Road, Mucklow's Corner houses three shops with some of the finest, most unique items in the area.

Mucklow's Fine Jewelry is on the front end. Owner Robert Mucklow is a dedicated jeweler with impressive design skills who knows how to create custom pieces that blend precious metals and jewels with the personality of his customer. In addition, there is a wide range of woodwork, pottery and glasswork from American artisans available at the shop.

Also at Mucklow's Fine Jewelry, you'll find an extensive bridal jewelry selection, as well as jewelry repair and restoration.

Next door, Kegley's Fine Foods stocks everything you need­or could want­for a gourmet dining experience right in your own home. From such delectable treats as cheesecakes, tarts and Belgium truffles to delicacies from around the world like Hungarian salami, mortadella and European cheeses, Kegley's has it. There's even a full line of tempting salads and dips and fresh seafood, poultry and meats.

Don't leave Kegley's without sampling something from the olive bar or picking up some of their sauces and dips. "We're here to help you make your home the best restaurant in town," says John Kegley.

Browse among the stunning treasures at Virtu, Ltd., at the other end of Mucklow's Corner. The sights, sounds and aromas will mesmerize you when you enter this delightful store. It abounds with a splendid selection of unique interior design items, an array of colorful European flowers, exquisite linens and tableware that reflect creative flair.

Owner Jennifer Hopkins uses her artistic skills to create stunning permanent flower arrangements with a distinctive personal touch.

Do you enjoy learning something new? Many large and small retailers offer classes, demonstrations and workshops to help you improve your home, your yard or yourself. You might want to test your creative talents. Spend an afternoon at the Pottery Patio, a paint-your-own ceramics studio located at Thomas Crossroads in Newnan, and create your own masterpiece. Ask about their special events or pottery parties. They make painting pottery a "happening."

Are you seeking enlightenment? Stop by Books of Light, located in downtown Sharpsburg. Described as "a metaphysical book store and a resource for conscious living," by owner Millie Williams, this eye-catching store has books, tapes, crystals and classes for personal growth. "We offer products for people who are looking for answers; people who want to know what it's all about," says Williams.

Are you a back-to-nature person? Wild Birds Unlimited, in Peachtree Crossing Shopping Center on Highway 54 in Peachtree City, specializes in bird feeders, seeds and books. They also sell birdhouses, garden accessories and statuary to make your backyard a haven for nature's feathered friends. "We have the best customers in the world," says Bobby Harrelson, who owns the store with his wife, Audrey. "We love to have people come in and tell us what is going on, or ask questions. Some customers bring pictures of their feeding areas and the birds they attract. Our store has become kind of a clearing house of information and a social gathering of hobbyists."

Do you feel like strolling in a park-like shopping area and grabbing a bite to eat? Stop by The Avenue at the intersection of Highways 54 and 74 in Peachtree City. Many favorite stores such as Talbot's, Yankee Candle Company, Beard and Company and One Magnolia Lane are here along with great restaurants and enticing coffee and tea shops.

Are you looking for the familiar? While new stores fill retail spaces in strip malls and shopping centers, the well-known stores that have grown up with the community remain a favorite of many. Smith & Davis Clothing, Omega Books, Verlo Mattress, La Viri Comfort Shoes and the Herb Shop are just a few of the long-time establishments that continue to be top-notch places to shop.

Peachtree City Jewelers has moved to a new level of style and fine quality jewelry at "The Avenue" in Peachtree City. The new store is called the "Platinum Plus" store by owner Bill MacDonald, who has been in the jewelry business in Fayette County for over twenty years.

This gallery/store features 18 KT gold and platinum one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry set with diamonds, genuine gemstones and cultured pearls. Designs include Lorenzo of Italy, whose sophisticated styles are crafted in Sterling Silver and 18 KT Gold, complemented by genuine gemstones. Only in this store, decorated in a classical European style, will you discover such treasures as James Vlass "JV" signed one-of-a-kind works of art; his designs now reside in the collections of royalty and celebrities throughout the world. Pearls always denote grace, beauty and timelessness and are featured in "Galatea"­hand carved Tahitian pearls with inlaid diamonds.

Custom designed jewelry, high quality diamonds and pearls are plentiful for special occasion rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, Rolex watches and much more. Jewelry and watch repair is still featured. Bill offers certified appraisals and is on site to help you design that one-of-a-kind treasure.

With treasures like these the new Peachtree City Jewelers is truly The Avenue's Jeweler.

Don't bypass the shopping areas that have been here awhile such as Westpark Walk, and Braelinn Shopping Center in Peachtree City, as well as the square in Fayetteville, and historic downtown Newnan.

Do you think older is better? Antique shopping is an art and a hobby for many people. It can be a challenge to find a vintage piece of furniture, a set of glassware or an old favorite book. Don't fret. There are many places to explore. Spend an afternoon in cozy downtown Sharpsburg among a nest of gift and antique shops, browse through Foxxhollow in Senoia or check out the older treasures at Collector's Corner on Highway 54. However, don't stop there. There are several other antique shops scattered throughout our area that are worth an exploration. Make sure you visit area consignment shops­sometimes they hold a trove of treasures.

Are you wondering what is ahead for area shoppers? No one has a definitive answer, but it's evident Coweta and Fayette counties haven't stopped growing. Just observe all the construction equipment, cleared land, newly constructed buildings and plazas. It's also apparent that our shopping options will increase. Look at this growth as an opportunity to explore the new, embrace the old and expand your shopping adventures. Enjoy!