In recent years, Cahaba Heights Village received an overhaul and gained a fresh look and some new stores. As part of this transformation, an old service station was renovated, becoming the home of Chickadee, a fabulous home goods shop in the heart of Cahaba Heights. Owners Kate Hartman and her mother-in-law Carolyn Hartman teamed up to create a store that would attract customers from both generations by filling the space with timeless collections. Now don’t confuse timeless with boring—Chickadee is far from it! Kate says, “The store is a mix of style and price point, and quality is always a key factor.” Chickadee houses a sampling of many styles, so there is sure to be something for everyone here. Whether you are looking to amend an accent piece, add a fresh set of throw pillows, new lighting or that serving piece that will be the topic of dinner party conversation, you have plenty to choose from. Not only that, but they have precious baby gifts, bridal registries and an array of other items that most definitely will be favorite gifts!
Image Credit: Chickadee
Local is Best
Not only is Chickadee a great addition to the city’s small business scene, but they carry a handful of lines from Birmingham natives making their mark in the world of pottery, art and edibles. If we had a favorite things list, pottery would certainly be on it, as it doubles as functional serveware and one-of-a-kind artwork. If you haven’t heard of Susan Gordon Pottery, let me proudly introduce you to it. Susan’s handcrafted pieces are simply stunning, some even donning a 22K gold luster overglaze. From delicate heart-shaped ring dishes (which, by the way, are a great gift for the girlfriend who just got engaged) to serving bowls and platters, of all shapes, sizes and detailing, and mugs and vases galore, Susan Gordon Pottery is a great addition to any home.
Just look at that beautiful aqua platter with the scalloped edging and intricate detail. It would be perfect on a styled bookshelf or buffet when not serving food.
We love the feminine petal pink tones, especially with the gold luster overglaze. The heart-shaped ring dish is the perfect home for your rings when they are not sparkling on your fingers!
Other Alabama vendors sold at Chickadee include Susan Hamner Designs, Seven Winds Kitchen (peanut brittle), Tootsie Chandler (jellies, preserves and pickles) and Yankee Bell Jewelry. Susan Hamner’s artwork features a cross or a Bible scripture to inspire and is a unique gift idea for a baptism or church confirmation. Yankee Bell Jewelry is fun for women of all ages, and has a great price point so you won’t feel guilty for convincing yourself you need more than one piece.
When you can replace big label foods with something local, it’s always a good idea. Not only are you supporting local entrepreneurs, but the food you’re getting is exceptionally fresh and can taste as good as if you just made it yourself in your kitchen (minus the mess)!
Yankee Bell necklaces range in price from $35 to $50.
Baby, Baby, Baby
The baby section rests in a cozy nook in the back of the store and has some of the sweetest items for a new baby or growing toddler. Although it’s a small space, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you’re in the market for some baby gifts, gather them all in this one shop.
Gather gift items like stuffed animals, books, swaddles, bath towels and blankets here.
We are in love with these darling Darzzi animal blankets. They’re incredibly soft and carry a little weight, so they will keep your baby nice and warm; $55. Moccasins are the current trend in baby footwear, and these, by Sweet N Swag, are only $20. There’s a large assortment of children’s books and stuffed animals.
The original Babar the Elephant story is more than 80 years old and has a certain nostalgia associated with it. Framed Babar prints will be a focal point in any nursery. $150 each
The Unexpected
Do you ever find yourself in love with a piece of furniture but second guess whether it will look right in your home, or feel intimidated by the assumption that getting an interior decorator is out of your price range? Chickadee can solve both dilemmas. They will deduct the value of two hours of in-home consultation ($150) from the purchase of $500 or more, just for being a customer enlisting their design services. We had no idea! Owners Kate and Carolyn long for their store to be one that appeals to all ages and budgets—this is such a refreshing benefit to offer customers.
Whether you are looking to update one piece or revamp an entire room, you are sure to find some coveted pieces.
Bar carts are all the rage right now, and this gold clover cart is to die for at $265.
The pair of dancing nudes original artwork will make a serious statement on any wall. $1,935 each
Replacing throw pillows can be enough of a change to modernize any room and give it a fresh look. We fell in love with too many pillows here, all of which are great quality.
A reinterpretation of the classic European bistro chair will suit a kitchen or patio table perfectly. These indoor/outdoor chairs are impeccable … easy to clean, too! $220 each
Gifts … for You or for Me?
Is it just us, or when someone asks you what you want for a gift your mind suddenly goes blank and not 30 minutes later you remember the laundry list of things you’ve been pining for? Here is an answer to that problem: a wish list. Create a personal wish list at Chickadee, so when said holiday comes up, poof! No guesswork and no racking your brain. We promise, your significant other will thank you for this one!
These Yankee Bell bracelets make a statement, whether you wear just one or stack them. Bracelets range in price from $22 to $40.
Instead of storing this exquisite marble cheese plate with gold edging in a cabinet when you’re not serving cheese, why not display it on your vanity and show off some of your favorite jewels? $78 (knife included)
Buying a wedding gift can sometimes be that lingering item on your to-do list that you just can’t seem to find the time for. Owner Kate says they want to “make life easy,” so you can call the shop, give a price range and any other specifics, and they will select and wrap it for you. All you have to do is pick the gift up and pay. If you’re buying for a local bride, they will also hand deliver a gift to the recipient’s home. Small businesses get the short end of the stick when it comes to online shopping, so this is a great solution for the busy person who wants to support local business.
They carry some beautiful dish lines that make great everyday pieces for the soon-to-be newlyweds, Juliska and Casafina to name a couple.
Wood and marble cheese boards with an initial carved into the wood make great hostess gifts. $35
This handmade metalware by Beatriz Ball you will love as much in 20 years as you do today. You can bake, chill and serve straight from the same dish.
Lovely metallic plates and bowls will make any set table shine a little brighter.
Chickadee is located in the Cahaba Heights Village at 3138 Cahaba Heights Road, Birmingham. Learn more at chickadeebirmingham.com, follow them on Instagram or call the store at (205) 969-3138. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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