Local shops have new local owners

Two La Conner institutions have new owners – and one of them a new name.

Purchasing the Reclamation Candle Company and Coffee Bar from Barney and Tammy Richard was a no-brainer for Greg Whiting and Jenelle Whitton. "We loved La Conner and we loved coffee and we wanted to do something together," said Whitton.

Specifically, they loved La Colombe coffee, which Reclamation served. They continue to sell the ethically sourced coffee at the 106 South First Street store. The shop is now called Ravens Cup Coffee and Art Gallery, inspired by the couple's collection of raven art.

Whitton and Whiting also use the same precise Italian espresso machine that the Richards used. "We can calibrate it to make a perfect shot," says Whitton, a former Starbuck's shift supervisor.

Candles made by Tammy Richard are also still available. So is sipping chocolate – which was a specialty of Barney's.

Whitton and Whiting have sourced new gift items and coffee-related merchandise from six continents. They also created a kid's corner and space for an art gallery with rotating displays and live music.

Whitton's son Jaden has been offering music the last few Saturdays and monthly open mic events are planned.

"We are really excited about people sharing their art, music, comedy, poetry and spoken word," said Whitton.

Another goal: creating a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere with good friendly service.

"We want to spread a little joy," Whitton said.

Go Outside stays in family

Go Outside's new owner has known the Morris Street store all her life.

"Mark Epstein is my godfather," said Karli Pickett. "We first talked about my buying the store five years ago. When I moved back to Mount Vernon, I called him, we hashed it out and it happened quickly."

Pickett grew up in retail. Her family started Cascade Sports and Gretchen's Kitchen Store, which operated for many years in Mount Vernon. Her sister owns the Chuckanut Manor restaurant.

No big changes will happen soon. "The store will evolve naturally, because I'll be doing the buying," she says.

The name will stay and so will the focus on unique, high-quality items that cannot be found in other stores. Planter pots and other garden items will soon appear on the recently repaired deck. Other ideas "are still percolating."

An online presence will come, but for now, she is focusing on the place and the people.

"This is a very special business and I am very excited to respect its history and evolve in the future."