By Sherry Daws
sherry@louisville.com
I just spent over an hour in one of the most unique stores I’ve ever been in...Regalo. After spending 20 minutes reading the Knock Knock cards and laughing until my cheeks were aching, I moved on to the magnets and novelty items. I left with gifts for people I hadn’t even thought of in months, but the stuff was so fabulous I just couldn’t pass it up and I have a small living space so there’s only so much I can take home for myself and the rather large Fat Boy dog bed was a must. Regalo has an unbelievable selection of unique jewelry, some of it made by one of the owners, JD Dotson, like the shrinky dinks earrings, I simply could not live without. No two pair are ever alike! They also feature several other local artists’ work. I love how the local artists in Louisville support each other.
JD Dotson, Jon Freels and Laura Applegate opened the fist Regalo location on Barrett Avenue almost 6 years ago. Last year they added a 2nd location on Market Street and just this week they opened their 3rd location inside The Galt House. JD, who has always lived in Louisville said their vision was to have a store that carried really cool, unique items that ‘people like us could afford’. I think they have definitely succeeded. JD has also moved his studio into the Market Street location so shoppers have the opportunity to watch him paint or make jewelry or whatever creative endeavor he is into at the time of their visit.
JD says he loves Louisville because the people here are nicer than anywhere else, has that small town feel and his mom is here. These guys really are so wonderful and they enjoy helping customers find that special gift or personal item they’re looking for.
Here is a partial list of JD’s favorite items (right now):
the Knock Knock Cards and Tablets
Pink Pistol Purse
Duct Tape Wallets
Herb Growing Eggs
Desktop Punching Bag - with space for someone’s picture
Blooming Business Card Holders
Unique list, eh? Makes you want to run straight over and check it out, doesn’t it? Stop in and see them at one or all of their locations - they have different stuff in each one! And although some of the items on the list probably make you laugh, Regalo also has some beautiful sophisticated items, like lamps, candles, incense, hand bags, amazing home decor and accessories. They also have select feature artists each month. For store hours and contact information please visit them at www.regaloart.com.
