One thing that was historically a constant Downtown Poulsbo was shops that strictly catered to the tourists visiting Poulsbo. But times have changed and proof of that is Northwest Land & Sea, opened by Jessica & Mario Avalos ust over a year ago. You’ll find a little bit of everything in the Pacific Northwest inspired shop, but the unique thing you’ll find is clothing for men! That’s right, this shop carries a great line of menswear from jeans and tee’s to hats and even a line of hair and beard grooming products. They also carry a great line of women’s wear as well. Tourists will love this spot for the decor, housewares, gifts and unique tee’s, but locals will love the selection of apparel. Something close to home – no need to head to the box stores the next town over. So whether your just a visitor, or a local that avoids downtown thinking its only for tourists, stop by this shop and see why our lovely downtown is for eveyone!
Q&A
Business Name:
Northwest Land and Sea
Type of Business:
Gifts and Apparel (Retail)
How long have you been in business?
November 23rd marked our one year!
What was the inspiration to start this business?
My husband and I have always thrown around the idea of opening our own business, but it wasn’t until I got the experience of managing another local shop downtown for about 4 years, that I was able to learn what it would be like to run a shop. I got to know other local downtown merchants, and learned what customers where asking for, things that our town was missing, or didn’t have a lot of. Which is what inspired us to really work on bringing in merchandise for men, and that local passion for the Pacific Northwest. We also carry a lot of fair trade and sustainable eco-friendly products from around the world.
What do you love most about doing business in Poulsbo?
I grew up in Port Townsend WA, I’ve always loved small town living. Poulsbo is such a special town, and it’s starting to become more up and coming. My husband and I are very excited to be a part of Poulsbo’s growing community and future.
What’s one thing visitors to your business might be surprised to know?
We are a Northwest shop, in the sense that we love our wilderness and PNW inspired merchandise, but the products in our store are from all over the world. We like to bring awareness to fair trade and eco friendly companies. We don’t specialize specifically in these products, but we are constantly researching to find more sustainable items that compliment our store. There are so many great companies out there helping amazing causes, and we would like to be a part of that.
Anything else?
I always had a dream of doing something of my own, something creative that I could shine through. Both my husband and I are artists in different ways, and we compliment each other very well when it comes to picking out merchandise and figuring out how to arrange our store. I’m the one with the artsy flair, and he’s the designer user friendly one. I feel so blessed that we can go on this journey as business owners together, in such a wonderful community that we are proud to call home.
Visit them next time your in town, or online at https://www.facebook.com/nwlandandsea
A special thanks to Brittany Kelley Photography for providing the images to accompany our article.
