Lark, a women’s boutique, opens in downtown Olympia
After 23 years of running a women’s boutique in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood called Endless Knot, Anne Gavzer was ready for a change.
Tired of the city, but still interested in running her own business, she settled on Olympia and its downtown because she has ties to the community, including as a former student at The Evergreen State College.
She closed Endless Knot on New Year’s Eve, signed her new lease in January, then was delayed, like all enterprises, by the COVID-19 pandemic. She originally wanted to open Lark on April 11, she said.
Instead, she had to wait until Phase 2 of the governor’s phased reopening of the economy, but finally opened June 6 at 113 Fifth Ave. SW. A business called Tattered Treasures used to occupy the space.
Lark sells what Gavzer calls an “eclectic mix” of women’s clothes and accessories. She buys from small, women-owned businesses, including handmade underwear from Megan Yeager, who also works as an associate at the store. The store also sells natural fibers as much as possible, and brands from abroad, including Spain and England.
The day a reporter visited the store, Gavzer wore a blouse made by England-based Conditions Apply and Yeager wore a jumper made by L.A.-based Saint Geraldine. Both are sold by the store. Customers can find outfits sophisticated enough for work and T-shirts for casual wear, Gavzer said.
It’s a store for mothers and daughters, she added.
The same day a reporter visited, former Olympia City Councilwoman Jeannine Roe also stopped by, saying she wants to support downtown and its local businesses. She said she appreciates “new blood” and that Gavzer “cares enough to open a new business.”
For now, Lark is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Gavzer said she intends to be open seven days a week eventually. Find Lark online at https://larklarkgoose.com/.
Other business happenings
Silverio’s Mexican Kitchen has opened in downtown Olympia in the space recently occupied by Pepper’s at 114 Cherry St. NE. It is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday. For more about Silverio’s and to see its menu, which offers a wide range of fare including breakfast, go to https://silveriosmexicankitchen.com/.
Lacey Shoe Repair, one of the oldest businesses in the city, is set to reopen June 16. The owners said in an email that hours will be limited to 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, and no more than four customers at a time will be allowed in the store. Masks are required. Customers are encouraged to make an appointment for custom-fit orthotics and shoes.
The Bank of America branch inside the Hawks Prairie Safeway off Marvin Road has closed. A store employee said it closed two weeks ago.
If you know of a retailer, restaurant, coffee shop or other business that is opening, closing, expanding, remodeling, or changing its focus, send an email to reporter Rolf Boone at rboone@theolympian.com.
