850 S. Broadway, Walnut Creek
Sad news as the repercussions from the Covid-19 pandemic continue… Thanks to a reader for pointing out that Swan’s Fine Books will no longer be relocating within Walnut Creek and will only be selling online for now. Read their message here and browse their online shop here.
Broadway Pointe, Walnut Creek
The one-two punch of the Covid-19 pandemic with recent looting in downtown Walnut Creek meant lots of closed and boarded up stores over the weekend but there are signs of retail shopping slowly opening up. Out of curiosity I checked out Williams-Sonoma which was open. A warning out front asking people to wear a mask and not to come in with a cough or fever was accompanied with touchless shopping signs inside the store. A few other people were inside as well, but frankly, it’s going to take a while to get used to shopping.
Strolling through Downtown Walnut Creek I couldn’t help but notice mannequins at Labels consignment boutique wearing fashionable face masks. A sign of the times.
Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek
Over the weekend I saw a large presentation happening inside the Apple store at Broadway Plaza in downtown Walnut Creek and according to their page they are now open from 11am, with special measures in place:
To ensure a clean, safe environment, we’re taking these extra measures:
- Limiting store occupancy
- Face coverings (will be provided)
- Touchless temperature checks
- Social distancing
- Continuous deep cleaning
Lafayette Clocktower
Venture Quality Goods is now fully open in Lafayette since they stock Patagonia provisions like wild sockeye salmon, smoked mussels, various snack bars and other food in front. While you’re there (limit five people in the store at one time), check out their clothing and other meticulously selected goods. You can also shop online at their website here.
312 Railroad Ave, Danville
In March, we got a sneak preview of the Napa-based wine tasting lounge/store The Find in Danville, and although they were only open for ten days before the coronovirus pandemic caused them to close, when I dropped by over the weekend, I found they were open for wine orders via no contact curbside pickup. Check out their wine list here, and schedule a 30 minute Zoom-based virtual shopping session here.
120 West Linda Mesa, Danville
The home decor and gift shop Gingerlily recently closed their retail store in Danville at the restored Austin Root house but their online shop remains open here.
“The Future is Bright”
—J.Crew
Is the future really bright for private equity-owned J.Crew, the clothing store who declared bankruptcy last week? I don’t know, let’s ask other private equity owned stores like Toys “R” Us, Sports Authority, and Gymboree.
Makers Market at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek may be closed for the time being but you can still support them and local makers by ordering fancy hand sanitizer at their online shop here.
Cloud of Protection Hand Sanitizer
Protect against illness and the flu with this 65% alcohol, natural, anti-microbial spray formula to clear the air of negativity and cleanse the space. This “Cloud of Protection” defends against illness, smells, and bad vibes. You’ll clear the air of airborne pathogens, and works great as a hand sanitizer. How to use: spritz the air to clear the room, stick it in the diaper bag, and to air out bad energy in a room.
495 Hartz Ave, Danville
Thanks to a reader for sending word and photo that California Pedaler in Danville is now a Trek Bicycle store. According to their website they’re temporarily closed. I picked up a bike pump here a couple of months ago and they were very helpful so I hope to see them back open soon.