 | | | From left, Pam Lewerenz and Danya Stehr glow on the opening day of their new store, Gypsea Bungalow. Photo Sophie Braccini | | | | | | Gypsea Bungalow: A Unique Boutique in Downtown Lafayette
3413-B Mt Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
(925) 310-4201 gypseabungalow.com
On Gypsea Bungalow's opening day May 1, the charming store and private outside patio were already busy with curious shoppers, and a line formed quickly at the counter where Danya Stehr and Pam Lewerenz, the two business partners, were working the cash register, delighted and surprised by this early rush. The two ladies have been friends for some 25 years. They met in San Francisco when they were still dating the men who later became their husbands. One lives in Orinda, the other in Lafayette, where they are raising their families, both with children in their teens. "Ten years ago we started a custom cupcake business together," says Stehr, "so we knew we worked well together." This time, the two are realizing a long-time dream: having a store that's like the charming boutique you discover on vacation that makes you want to buy everything inside. "Everything that's in here are things we love, that we've found elsewhere and could not find here, or have discovered while traveling," says Lewerenz. The choice of gifts for self or loved ones is wide, from tabletop items, to accessories for the home, a limited but charming collection of women's and men's clothing, as well as jewelry and an assortment of new and upcoming brands. The store is located off the street, behind ResCare HomeCare and has available parking. "We are a destination boutique," explains Stehr, adding that the two of them looked for a long time before finding the perfect location. The private shaded patio is available for parties and a few are already scheduled.
Moraga Employee of the Month for April
Marty McInturf, who has worked tirelessly as Moraga's town clerk for the past six years, has been named the April Moraga Employee of the Month. McInturf is the primary liaison between the town government and the public, recording all activities and decisions of the Town Council. She has produced over 120 town newsletters during her tenure, keeping the citizens of Moraga well informed on the latest information. "Marty is an extremely dedicated employee, often is not only the last person in the office to leave, but takes work home with her," said Jay Ingram, Moraga's director of parks and recreation. The Moraga Rotary and Chamber of Commerce will award McInturf with gift cards to Safeway and to Ristorante Amaroma in Moraga at an upcoming luncheon in May.
News from the three Chambers of Commerce
Lafayette
The 13th annual Taste of Lafayette will be from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 19. Tickets for the classic event that tours diners around town to sample food and drinks at favorite and new restaurants are available online at lafayettechamber.org.
Ribbon cutting for the Hideout Kitchen and Cafe at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 14 at 3406 Mt. Diablo Blvd. (behind the Soccer Post).
Ribbon Cutting for Behymer & Steel Chiropractic at 5 p.m. Thursday May 21, 1043 Stuart Ave. #10
May mixer from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 27 at Lafayette Physical Therapy, 3468 Mt. Diablo Blvd. suite B110.
Moraga
Moraga Community Faire and Classic Car Show from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 9 at the Rheem Shopping Center (see story page B1)
Orinda
The Orinda Restaurant Tour: Dining Al Fresco is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12 throughout and about Theatre Square in downtown Orinda with most of the Orinda restaurants providing samples of some of their finest offerings to tour participants. Music by The Ripplers will accompany the diners along their easy walk. Pie and coffee service from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets for the event are available at orindachamber.org.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA