Shop Local: Happy 30th Anniversary Queen Anne Dispatch!

Photography by Theresa Wingert

We all have things that we love about our neighborhoods that make us glad we live where we do. My family has been on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle for more than a dozen years now and we love it. It is like living in a small town inside a big city. Growing up in Billings, Montana, I lived in a 1920s house on a tree lined street, and it is a happy coincidence that my family and I ended up in the same type of neighborhood.

Up on “The Ave”, better known as Queen Anne Avenue, small businesses reign. From small clothing shops and salons to Seattle chef-owned restaurants, the street is center of the community hub. Although some things do change, (RIP Nancy’s Sewing Basket and Communique Gifts) there are a few institutions that we love around here, and one of them is Queen Anne Mail and Dispatch.

Queen Anne Mail and Dispatch, or to many of us, “The Dispatch”, was founded in 1987 by Jan Paolini. The business originated from her experience in the moving industry and her perception of what the local residents of Queen Anne needed in their neighborhood. Today Queen Anne Dispatch is not only a personal mailbox/shipping/office, it is also a boutique filled with gifts, beautiful clothing and more. The location, which was once an independent grocer where Jan's daughters bought penny candy as children, is now a center of the community here on the hill. Jan's daughter's, Tara and Sabrina, have taken her legacy and continued to make this small business an integral part of Queen Anne living.

So, now it is time to celebrate! And who doesn’t love a party? On November 17, 2017, The Dispatch will celebrate 30 years in business. This is no small feat in this ever-changing world, and you are invited! Owners Tara and Sabrina will be celebrating with the community all day long, with 30% discounts throughout the entire store, bubbles and bites, giveaways and more. Mark your calendar and come celebrate what is great about the small businesses in our neighborhood. While I was there taking advantage of their business services, several lovely pieces caught my eye, including the Gypsy Havana Midi Dress and more....

Dark florals are where it is at this season, and this gorgeous Gypsy Havana Midi Dress is completely on trend. I actually wore it backwards so that the v-front was in the back and the little buttons showed in front. The fitted Tart Collection Natasha Jacket gives it a chic vibe with its faux fur and zipper details. My red velvet Zara Sock Booties play off the colors in the floral pattern. Also, every year I buy the Pia Rossini faux fur infinity scarves, also known as a snood, for gifts (and for myself too) because they are the perfect accessory to look chic and stay warm. I love this champagne colored one because it goes with everything.

Small businesses thrive and make our community better when we all support them. Cheers to 30 more years, Queen Anne Dispatch!

Queen Anne Dispatch 30th Anniversary Party
Friday, November 17, 201,  9 am to 9 pm
2212 Queen Anne Avenue North
Seattle, Washington 98109