While taking care of business on the Redmond Municipal Campus or strolling behind it on the Sammamish River Trail, you suddenly remember a birthday, baby shower or other occasion that warrants a thoughtful gift.
Unique and affordable selections are close at hand, at the Redmond Senior Center (RSC) Gift Gallery, 8703 160th Ave. NE.
Open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday and during some special events at the RSC, the cozy gift shop was created 12 years ago, but many Redmond residents and employees still don’t know it exists. There’s a widespread notion that only “old folks” hang out at the senior center. Yet the RSC hosts many all-ages events such as pet fairs and bridal fairs, as well as fitness classes that are open to anyone 18 or older.
The RSC Gift Gallery has more than 30 members who produce and sell their handmade wares and take turns working at the store, which is licensed by the state of Washington. The gallery is “juried,” meaning that a panel evaluates the quality of the products and how they will fit into the marketing mix.
“These are really good artists. We jury the people who can be here so we’re not stepping on any toes, so it’s something different from what we have,” explained Joanne King, one of the founding members of the group. “Price being manageable is important. They set the price but we ask them to avoid top price.”
Starting at just a dollar or two, there are lots of fun choices for shoppers in need of a present that comes “from the heart” but is easy on the wallet. There are also practical gifts that you can pick up for yourself.
For instance, the RSC Gift Gallery sells reusable grocery bags with a padded shoulder strap as well as plush seat belt covers for $5 each. Cloth pouches to bake a potato or warm a muffin in the microwave also cost $5 each.
You’ll find embroidered throw pillows priced at $10.
Reversible rain or sun hats are $12 each. Colorful beaded necklaces, eyeglass holders and rosaries can be found for $20 each.
Soft, pastel baby blankets or sweaters cost around $35 each. A set of cuddly, Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls costs $40.
Other products at the RSC Gift Gallery include framed art, clocks, wooden cars, glassware, night lights, Husky and Cougar spirit items and much more. Products change with the seasons, so even if you’ve been in the gallery before, you might spot something new on your next visit.
Still, “it’s hard to get people in,” member Marian Anderson remarked. “The stereotype is ‘doilies made by little old ladies.’
We’re looking for ways to engage a client base outside of the senior community or even Redmond. We’re trying to reach out to Issaquah, Kirkland and other places, too.”
The members hope to expand the gift gallery’s hours, perhaps a couple of evenings a week — or to create some type of “artist in action” events to draw in local school children and their families.
Before those ideas can come to fruition, the RSC Gift Gallery needs more support. Stop by and say hello, do a little bargain-hunting or perhaps volunteer to man the store.
For more information, call the Redmond Senior Center at (425) 556-2300.
