BAINBRIDGE CHAMBER: What do you like most about operating a business on Bainbridge Island?

PLUM: The Bainbridge Island community! After being in business for 10+ years, we love our local customers and consider them part of our Plum family. Many of our staff, whom we call The Plumettes, have raised their children on the island and have deep roots and connections. It’s heartwarming to see our customers feel comfortable enough to come in just to say hello.

BAINBRIDGE CHAMBER: What are the greatest challenges you face?

PLUM: We are located in a unique tucked away spot on the Plum deck along with our wonderful shop neighbor, Brian Hansen of Bainbridge Gold, Silver & Jewelry, however, we realize we don’t get as much of the foot traffic because we are set back from the main street. We try to draw folks up the deck with our Wing Wall (painted during the pandemic) and our ever-changing seasonal deck light displays. Right now it’s white lanterns and snowflakes for the holiday season. In January and February, it will be pink lanterns as a nod to Chinese New Year and cherry blossoms.

We are also a local, small business that is currently being impacted by the tariffs and cost increases in our purchasing and freight. Together with consumer ambivalence in buying, it is creating a perfect storm that small businesses may not be able to weather going forward.

BAINBRIDGE CHAMBER: What would you like the community to know about Plum?

PLUM: If you have never been to Plum, we'd love to welcome you! We are an Asian-style Northwest boutique carrying clothing, accessories and gifts. Our seasoned customers know they can always find the perfect item which we happily gift wrap in a Plum box. We are always curating products that we know our customers would appreciate. We also represent local artists’ artwork, note cards and jewelry. Where we shine is with our amazing Plumettes, who provide a gracious and welcoming atmosphere in helping you find the perfect outfit or gift. Follow us on Instagram @plumbainbridge to see the new arrivals and our famous Plum Pet Pics.