The Kent Reporter names the 2010 Winners in the “Best of Kent” contest, sponsored by Kent Station. Here are just a few of our favorites:

Community Volunteer: Suzanne Cameron, winner and Lee Anderson, nominee

Police Officer: Chief Steve Strachan

Public Official: Mayor Suzette Cooke

Realtor: Marti Reeder, John L. Scott

Teacher: Sara Palmer, Mattson Middle School

Waiter: Michelle @ Maggie’s on Meeker

Spa Services: Lemon Drop Skin Care & Massage

Italian Cuisine: Paolo’s

Gift Store: Marie Haggin Accessories

Favorite Family Destination: Kent Station

For a complete list, visit the Kent Reporter’s Best of Kent “insert” online.

This weekend Marie Haggin Accessories hosted A Bridal Shower for You along with a Fashion Show to officially launch the boutique’s new collection of bridal gowns and wedding services. At least a dozen or more brides showed up along with friends and family to enjoy the gala event, more than 50 guests in all. Featuring wedding vendors like Paper Monsoon, Jacquie’s Cakes, Wink Cupcakes, Rehma Cookies, Mama Stortini’s catering,  Bella home and garden, and more!

Debbie Marie Haggin, owner of Marie Haggin Accessories, was delighted at the number of guests who attended on a sunny Sunday afternoon for the shower and fashion show.

“I had no idea what kind of a turnout we’d have since this was such a specialized event, but it was very well received. I am so happy! I have the best customers in Kent!,” Haggin said.

For more information about the event or for details about the vendors, please visit Marie Haggin Accessories website or blog online. Marie Haggin is located at Kent Station on Ramsay Way.  Hours:  Mon-Sat:  10 am – 8 pm, Sun.: 11 am – 6 pm

July 22, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A Bridal Shower for You:
Marie Haggin Accessories to Unveil Bridal Gowns & Wedding Services
at July 26 Bridal Shower & Fashion Show

Kent, Washington, July 22, 2009 – Debbie Marie Haggin, owner of Marie Haggin Accessories, is excited to announce that she has added bridal gowns and wedding services to her Kent Station boutique. With more than 100 gowns in stock, the dresses come in a variety of sizes, styles and price ranges from designers like Jasmine, Signature and Eternity. To simplify planning for brides-to-be, Marie Haggin Accessories also offers an array of wedding services including bridal showers, wedding favors, a gift registry, jewelry and gifts for the wedding party, tablescapes and more.

Though the gowns have been on display since June, Marie Haggin Accessories will officially unveil the dresses and wedding services at her store during a special Bridal Shower and Fashion Show this Sunday, July 26 from 2 to 4 p.m. This bridal event, A Bridal Shower for You, will feature Marie Haggin’s elegant bridal gowns as well as a variety of wedding vendors including Jacquie’s Cakes, Sweet Rhema Cookies, Wink Cup Cakes, Adams DJ Service, Bella home & garden, Zebra Lilly, Open Space Studio, Perk Up Place, A Bride’s Dream and Mama Stortini’s. The public is invited to attend.

“I love pampering brides so I’m thrilled to offer bridal gowns and wedding services in Kent,” Haggin said. “Brides can come to Marie Haggin to find the perfect dress along with many of the services they’ll need to host their dream wedding.”

In addition to designing jewelry for her store, Haggin has a background in dress design and wedding planning, and she has a flair for creating one-of-a-kind celebrations like A Bridal Shower for You.

“The bridal shower and fashion show will display our beautiful gowns and highlight local caterers, bakeries and other wedding vendors, so brides-to-be and their families can see what’s possible,” Haggin said. “This event will be the best of my in-store parties yet. I hope the community will come out to see what we have to offer.”

Now featuring bridal gowns and wedding services, Marie Haggin Accessories offers a fun array of unique gifts and accessories including scarves, handbags, jewelry, dishware, bath and body items, home décor, baby gifts, and more. Named “Best Gift Store” by the Kent Reporter in 2009, Marie Haggin Accessories is located at 441 Ramsay Way, Suite 103 in Kent Station, next to Chico’s.

For more information, please contact:

Debbie Haggin, owner
Marie Haggin Accessories
253-859-9769
Email
www.MarieHaggin.com and http://mariehagginaccessories.blogspot.com
Hours:      Monday – Saturday:  10 am – 8 pm and Sunday:  11 am – 6 pm

Elisa Hope, mother of three, is excited to announce the official launch of Sorrisi Décor, a Kent-based business that offers beautifully-designed tooth fairy pillows with a twist – a portion of the profits will benefit children in need of crisis dental care in western Africa.

The idea for the business came unexpectedly when a nearly-failed tooth fairy attempt created an opportunity for Hope. After her son woke up during a visit from the tooth fairy, Hope hid in his room to avoid detection. While waiting for her son to fall asleep, this creative Kent mom developed the idea for the fun, 14-inch, pocketed tooth fairy pillows.

“I had been making pillows for my nieces and nephews already,” Hope explained, “So I thought if I made a business out of the idea, I could donate part of the profits to help kids who needed dental care.”

Hope followed up on the idea by contacting Medical Teams International who told her the greatest need for crisis dental care was in Liberia and Mali, West Africa. Shortly thereafter, Sorrisi Décor and its tooth fairy pillows were born!

Hope’s initial line of tooth fairy pillows includes 12 brightly-colored, whimsical designs. The pillows retail for $49.99 plus tax, and are available online as well as at specialty boutiques like Marie Haggin Accessories in Kent Station.

Hope will celebrate the launch of her business by participating in Wine, Women, Wow at the ShoWare Center this Friday, followed by an open house at Marie Haggin Accessories on Saturday, May 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. During the open house, Hope will unveil the new line of tooth fairy pillows and introduce a member of Medical Teams International to explain how Sorrisi Décor’s donations will help kids get dental care. The May 30 event will also feature a live jazz trio and complimentary appetizers and beverages. The public is invited to attend both events, but tickets are required for Wine, Women, Wow.

“When I first saw the pillows, I knew I had to have them in my store,” Debbie Marie Haggin said. “They make great gifts for nieces, nephews and grandchildren. My customers will love them!”

For more information about Hope and her new business, visit Sorrisi Décor online at www.sorrisidecor.com. For more information about Medical Teams International and the growing need for crisis dental care, please visit www.medicalteams.org.

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Started by Kent mom Elisa Hope in 2009, Sorrisi Décor offers tooth fairy pillows in 12 designs. The artfully-designed pillows are 14-inches square and feature a pocket in the front for lost teeth or other treasures. Made from attractive but durable fabric, the heirloom pillows are made to last. Sorrisi Décor will donate a portion of its profits to Medical Teams International to provide crisis dental care in Liberia and Mali, West Africa.

In the April 25, 2009 issue of the Kent Reporter, readers named their Kent favorites in the “Best of Kent 2009″ community contest. Winners included:

Community volunteer:  Sue Froyd

Insurance agent:  Bob Wagner

Doctor:  Dr. Twe

Dentist:  Dr. Rich Hayashi

Firefighter:   John Robbins

Police Officer:  Paul Peterson

Public Official:  Mayor Suzette Cooke

Realtor:  Marti Reeder, John L. Scott

Teacher/School:  Mrs. Carchedi – Glenridge

Automotive:  Kent East Hill Tire Factory

Fitness Center:  24 Hour Fitness on Kent-Kangley

Bank/Credit Union:  Bank of America

Spa Services:  Lemon Drop Skin Care & Massage

Green Business:  REI Corporate

Nail Salon:  Peridot Nail Salon

Hair Salon/Barber Shop:  Salon Ivoni

Plant Nursery:  McLendon Hardware

Senior Living Facility:  Arbor Village

Winery:  Castle Bridge Winery

Asian Cuisine:  Archa Thai Bistro

BBQ:  Cave Man Kitchens

Breakfast:  Maggie’s on Meeker

Lunch:  Bittersweet Restaurant

Coffee Shop:  Starbucks on 4th

Family Restaurant:  Golden Steer

Mexican Cuisine:  Mexico Lindo

Pizza:  Pizzeria Fondi

Italian Cuisine:  Paolo’s Italian Restaurant

Fine Dining:  Paolo’s Italian Restaurant

Waiter/Location:  Rebecca at Maggie’s on Meeker

Pet Groomer:  Soggy Doggy

Veterinarian:  McMonigle Veterinarian Hospital

Flower Shop:  Bella home and garden

Jewelry Store:  Bonaci Fine Jewelers

Antique Shop:  Mad Hatter Antiques

Gift Store:  Marie Haggin Accessories

Grocery/Convenient Store/Location:  Top Food &  Drug

Clothing/Shoe Store:  Just the Thing

Furniture/Home Decor:  Chair & Trellis

Bookstore:  Children’s Bookshop & Teaching Supplies

Consignment/Thrift Store:  Meeker Street Emporium

Best View of Kent:  Grandview Off-Leash Dog Park

Most Romantic Spot:  Lake Meridian Park

Favorite Family Destination:  Kent Station

Congratulations to all of the “Best of Kent 2009″ winners and to all of the honorable mentions and nominees! We’re proud of Kent, and it shows!

If you still have last minute gifts to buy and want to avoid the mall, consider shopping in downtown Kent. Both Kent Station and Kent’s historic district have some unique options. Here are a few of my favorites:

Earthworks Gem Design Studio: Steve St. Louis has some beautiful, unique pieces of jewelry that your sweetheart will love.

Heartbeat Yoga & Healing Arts: Consider a gift certificate to treat a loved one to a yoga or tai chi class or a massage treatment.

Balanced Athlete: This First Avenue shop has a great selection of running gear including exercise clothing, shoes and more. Owner Eric Sach can hook you up with something perfect for the athlete on your gift list.

Cypriana: This natural home store features wonderfully natural and organic products for home, bath and baby. In addition, owner Susan Thomas is an expert at designing custom slipcovers and embroidery for your home.

Lemon Drop Skin Care & Massage: Treat yourself or a friend to a delightful massage, facial, skin care treatment or waxing. The personal care boutique also has some great stocking stuffers including make-up bags, eye masks, make-up, brushes and more.

English Cottage Collection: This darling shop on W. Meeker St. has different items every time I stop in. Filled with home decor, baby and gift items, this store has something for everyone in every price range.

American Charm: American Charm, also on W. Meeker, has a wide variety of fun, trendy and eclectic gift items, including home decor, children’s gifts, stuffed animals, purses, jewelry and more. You’ll love this shop’s American charm.

Children’s Bookshop: I love this lively children’s book store which is full of great books, learning tools, games, toys, teaching supplies and more. Find the ideal gift for the child or teacher in your life.

Renaissance Yarns: Now at Kent Station next to Dave’s MiniHobby Shop, Renaissance Yarns has a beautiful selection of yarns, patterns, knitting tools and other gift items for the creative one on your list. Not sure what to buy? Ask Nancy or her helpful staff to make some suggestions.

Just the Thing: For the fashionista in your family, check out Just the Thing at Kent Station. This charming boutique specializes in custom jean fittings. Buy a gift certificate so your fashionable friend can pick out her favorite jeans.

Marie Haggin Accessories: Now next to Chico’s at Kent Station, Marie Haggin Accessories has hundreds of gift ideas including unique purses, handmade jewelry, wedding crystal, fashion accessories and more. You’ll never find the same thing twice.

Peridot Nail Salon: Tired from your holiday shopping? Stop by Peridot at Kent Station and enjoy a manicure or pedicure. Afterward, you’ll feel refreshed and ready for your next holiday task.

Topaz: If you’ve got trendy, young shoppers to buy for, visit Topaz, next to Road Runner at Kent Station. This new fashion boutique has great, affordable pieces you won’t find anywhere else in Kent.

Other possibilities for last minute gifts include: Bella home & garden, City Frame, Discovery Shop, Goju Karate & Pilates, Salon Avoni, Howell’s Religious Books, Distinctive Images Barber Shop and Styling Salon, NW Electrology & Permanent Makeup, Nature’s Vignettes and more. To learn more about these businesses, visit Kent Downtown Partnership or Kent Station online.

If you’ve worked up an appetite shopping, try one of downtown Kent’s many restaurants for lunch, dinner, coffee or a cocktail:

Wild Wheat Bakery & Cafe, Kona Kai Coffee, Spiro’s Greek Island Restaurant, Shindig Martini Bar, Bittersweet, Maggie’s on Meeker, Vibe Bar and Grill, Bev’s Cucina, Pat’s Bar & Grill, Zephyr, Zao Noodle Bar, Johnny Rockets, Pizzeria Fondi, Duke’s Chowder House, Chipotle Mexican Grill, The Ram, Dillettante Mocha and Espresso, Jamba Juice and more.

Happy Holidays,

Dana Blozis
Virtually Yourz

This week is a busy one in downtown Kent. Here are a just of few of this week’s happenings:

TODAY: Marie Haggin Accessories opens in her new Kent Station location, next to Chico’s.

FRIDAY: PICC Halloween Trick-or-Treat Event (2 to 5 p.m.)

FRIDAY: Kent Station Trick-or-Treat Event and Costume Judging (4 to 6 p.m.)

Watch for KING 5 & Evening Magazine’s “Best of Western Washington” winners to be named! There are a number of Kent businesses named. Woo hoo!

Marie Haggin Accessories is one of my favorite stores in downtown Kent. Now at Kent Station, the store has become so popular that it is expanding into a larger space, next to Chico’s on Ramsay Way. The store re-opens this Wednesday, October 29 with more selection and some new products and services. If you love fun fashion accessories, handmade jewelry, or unique home decor, then you will love Marie Haggin!

Since Marie Haggin Accessories was on First Avenue, I’ve been a fan of both Debbie and her designs. She’s got the most fun collection of accessories for the home and body – many of which grace my home and my jewelry box. From the beautiful handmade jewelry to Debbie’s exquisite taste in home decor, I’ve got some unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else in Kent. Debbie’s now in Kent Station next to Dave’s MiniHobby Shop, so stop by next time you’re at Kent Station. You won’t be disappointed!

Since Marie Haggin Accessories was on First Avenue, I’ve been a fan of both Debbie and her designs. She’s got the most fun collection of accessories for the home and body – many of which grace my home and my jewelry box. From the beautiful handmade jewelry to Debbie’s exquisite taste in home decor, I’ve got some unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else in Kent. Debbie’s now in Kent Station next to Chico’s and J. Jill, so stop by next time you’re at Kent Station. You won’t be disappointed!

Marie Haggin Accessories, 441 Ramsay Way, Suite 103, Kent, WA  98032, 253-859-9769