LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
Rehoboth's Little Treasure Chest: "Just Looking" |
by Francesca Cantarini |
Where can you go to find a kimono? Some great 50s art deco? How about furniture from the 1800s? It sounds as if a scavenger hunt across the globe is the only answer. But, not in Rehoboth. Just Looking, located on Route One just out of downtown Rehoboth Beach, is a consignment store that specializes in unique pieces with something of interest for everyone. David Ruffo owns Just Looking and runs it with the help of his "right-hand man," Jamie Brown. Ruffo got the idea of a consignment store from his original business, Sgt. Pepper, which sells unique clothing, shoes, and some other out of the ordinary items. David opened Just Looking in November of 1997 and has already expanded once. The shop now encompasses four rooms which are filled with hundreds of articles. Ruffo finds the "stuff" anywhere and everywhere, but gets the best pieces from callers who want to sell something theyve had for a long time. He mostly looks for antiques, mirrors, rugs, paintings, decorative accessories, and quality used furniture. Those are the items most people come looking for. Right now Ruffos favorite piece is a Step Back Pine Cupboard dating back to the mid-1800s. Ruffo says he has many favorites, but this one he will especially "hate to see it go." If youre wondering about the prices, put your mind at ease. Items are half the price youd pay somewhere else. For example, a beautiful Rattan and Glass, six chair dining room set (pictured) normally would sell for around $2000. At Just Looking it is only $700. Ruffo keeps the numbers down by aiming for the lowest price possible with the consignor. To find a really cheap conversation piece, check Ruffos bargain basement. "Business has been great so far," says Ruffo. "In fact, many customers have fast become repeats because new items arrive daily. Its mostly locals who have had luck finding the real treasures, but now that June is here we expect to find many out-of-towners doing more than just looking at Just Looking. So, whether you are searching for that one specific piece to complete your den, or youre an antique buff, or even if all you want to do is spend a little time looking at some interesting goods, stop by Just Looking. Something is bound to catch your eye. Just Looking at 4147 Highway One in Rehoboth Beach is open daily from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 8, No. 6, June 5, 1998. |