Shop Talk: East Side Eden

Although my garden has proven disappointing this year (an attack by Japanese Beetles finished off the last of my tomato plants), I still love a good gardening store. East Side Eden goes above and beyond your typical gardening store, as is evident by their Rhode Island Monthly Magazine awards in two categories; Best Hostess Gifts and Best Urban Gardening Supplies . This store consists of a small shop attached to a large greenhouse. The shop stocks everything from jewelry to stationary, while in the greenhouse you can find an abundance of plants, succulents and gardening supplies.

Owner Alexandra Knott's story of how East Side Eden came about is very inspirational, especially for us creative types. Always an avid gardener, Alexandra pursued a corporate career for 15 years until she was biking by the abandoned store front and greenhouse and it dawned on her that it was the perfect spot for a gardening store. The rest, as they say, is history...

A few of my favorite things: I love the adorable silver bird measuring spoons from Beehive Kitchenware. The rows and stacks of beautiful pots would be a lovely addition to any garden, especially for those of us relegated to a porch garden.

I was also blown away by the beauty of something as functional as a gardening spade. The craftsmanship is just amazing and it's always nice to add a little luxury when it comes to tasks such as weeding!

This store is certainly worth a visit even if your thumb isn't the slightest shade of green. You are certain to find something to delight and inspire at East Side Eden.East Side Eden

1 Alfred Stone Rd.

Pawtucket, RI 02860

401-726-2700

**Many thanks to Susan for welcoming me to the shop and taking me through the interesting background of her life and Alexandra's path! Also note- there is an end-of-the-season, 50% off sale going on at East Side Eden, July 31st through August 4th!!