JANIS DEAN
THE POPINJAY
The Popinjay provides imaginative gifts and accessories for your home, your family and your life. The store has also been a purveyor of fine chocolate since 1977. The traditional candy counter at the front of the store attracts people of all ages who love a tasty bite. With at least 90 offerings in the candy department our chocolate has been a welcome gift on countless occasions.
Years Downtown:
1987-present
Little Known Fact:
Although the store has always had a vibrant baby department, patrons today note that the offerings for wee ones under two years old are “awesome.” The success of this department has given us the opportunity to meet many of our area’s young mothers and their children. That brings us joy.
Our Story:
Our business began in a very humble way when my husband Stephen and I purchased a neighborhood convenience store on Yelm Highway. Encouraged by the love of arts and crafts I devoted a special area to fine hand crafted items and pottery. The concept was nurtured and grew into a stand-alone store a few years later.
While we have enjoyed multiple locations (at one point having three stores) it became obvious that downtown Olympia was the best fit for our type of enterprise. Generations of Olympians have supported and encouraged The Popinjay, some visiting regularly to stock up on greeting cards, list in hand, others consider us to be their source for gifts and home accessories. The Olympia Wear shirts, hats and jackets have been another Popinjay staple. I like to encourage people to wear their own city when they travel. What a great conversation opener!
What I Love About Olympia:
The spirit, diversity and compassion of Olympians make this a great community. For those not fortunate enough to live here I highly recommend a walk along our boardwalk where you will enjoy beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Olympic mountains.
