The 3/50 Project, a movement to buy local, is gaining momentum across the country. The logic behind the initiative could benefit the shops in San Marco tremendously, thus improving quality of life in our neighborhood. The Square has long been one of the biggest draws to San Marco. Living within walking distance of amazing restaurants and shops filled with gorgeous clothes, elegant stationary, and gourmet treats has been a way of life in San Marco for a long time.
As residents of the neighborhood, we need to support our local shops. the 3/50 Project research shows that if half the employed population spent $50 in a locally owned, independent retailer, it would generate $42.6 billion in revenue. And for every $100 spent in local, independently operated stores, $68 goes back into the local economy compared to $43 that comes back into the local economy from $100 spent at a chain retailer.
In support of the 3/50 Project, we challenge you to pick 3 stores, your 3 favorite stores, stores you would be sad to see leave the Square and spend $50. With Valentine’s coming up it is the perfect opportunity to find the perfect Valentine’s treat for your sweetheart. Flowers, chocolates, wine, Valentine’s day cards, a romantic meal, can all be found here in San Marco Square.
Support the Square, buy local.

It is still cold and there seems to be no end in sight. Very serendipitous that The Bath & Linen Shoppe’s semi-annual sale is going on now. The cold weather is the perfect reason to go out and buy all new comfy, warm duvets, coverlets, bath mats, sheets and more! All items in the store, except Yves Delorme products, are 20% – 50% off. The sale lasts the entire month of January.

Design Elements will say good-bye to San Marco Square today. The store opened in November, full of Christmas decor and an on-staff decorator to help make homes especially merry this year. Trucks arrived at 2:00 today to begin packing up the store.

One of Ortega’s favorite florists, Gardner’s of Ortega has opened a shop in San Marco. Gardner’s of Ortega has a celebrated history of custom floral designs and exotic orchids. The San Marco shop is a new shop and will not take the place of the Ortega Village shop. The new Gardner’s is located on Hendricks next to the Cake Shop, across the street from the Gate station. The sign out front simply says flowers, but don’t be fooled by the simple signage. Once inside you will be surrounded by amazing floral arrangements.

A longtime question for San Marco merchants is whether or not to open on Sunday’s? The question brings up a litany of concerns, both for and against, opening on Sundays. Religion, tradition, profit, foot traffic, and other issues make this a difficult question. Traditionally stores in San Marco are not open on Sundays. Lately there has been a growing number of stores open on Sunday’s including Olive, Starbucks, The Loop, Moe’s, The San Marco Theater, Pizza Palace, Firehouse, European Street and most recently High Tide Burrito Co.

What do you think? Should stores open in San Marco on Sundays or remain closed?

Looking for a wedding dress, debutante dress or otherwise special occasion dress, Martha Shump has you covered. Martha has set-up shop on Hendricks Avenue, next to Bella Bridesmaid and across from Panera. Martha specializes in custom dresses for special occasions of all types. Many of you  might be familiar with Martha Shump. She has been the preferred source for alterations at the Bridal Shop at the Avenues for the past few years. Martha is well versed in wedding dresses and luxurious fabrics, plus you can go next door to Bella Bridesmaid and pick out bridesmaids dresses. One stop wedding shopping.

Time to go shopping again. use the heat, or the rain, as an excuse to find an indoor activity – shopping. The sales continue in the Square. Several merchants have great deals to take advantage of:

Leila’s: a large 50% off area. Designers on sale include Eliza J., Wy?, One Girl Who, Nally and Millie, and Joyous and Free.

Mimi’s: a large selection of gifts 20% – 50% off.

Three Lions: select items including Beijo bags (designed by a Jacksonville resident) Jim Shore, and Vera Bradley are on sale. If you spend over $100 on Pandora jewelry, you receive a free purse hook.

The Ward Room: a variety of merchandise at discounted prices.

There are some great sales in San Marco to get out and take advantage of. III Lions is having a Vera Bradley sale. Karl’s is having a gigantic sale (according to the large colorful sign in the widow). And the best sale of them all is the huge sale at the Bath and Linen Shoppe. The whole store is 50 – 75% off, including Abyss towels and Habidecor rugs and select Yves Delorme sheets. Rumor has it the Bath and Linen Shoppe is clearing out inventory and moving to the beach. Shop now while they are still in the neighborhood.