With a move to downtown Tacoma in 2007 that gave her instant access to shoppers inside Freighthouse Square, Paula’s Antiques owner Paula A. Carter-Lewis (formerly in a shop on Ft. Lewis) is pleased with the exposure that the move has provided her. Her sweet and open disposition adds to the singular experience of viewing and being able to purchase dazzling and truly impressive items from her showcases.



Since 2000 when Carter-Lewis was still working the auction angle acquiring quaint collectibles (everything from porcelain figurines and dolls) and vintage jewelry (ropes of pearls and fantastic rings), her efforts and skillful purchasing and planning have paid off. She strives to “match the right person with the ideal treasure,” a lofty goal, but one she has made more attainable by employing talented designers to create exclusive original jewelry designs to be sold in her store. Designers use sparkling crystals, lush natural polished woods, brilliantly colored semi-precious stones and gleaming metals. How droll it would be to see another woman wearing the same necklace, no matter how lovely. Carter-Lewis emphasizes the word “exclusive” when mentioning her designers (Margret Shartel, Monica Cueller, Becky Twogood, and Maximiliana Bourge).



Mixing the old with the new, Paula’s Antiques offers carved cameos in handcrafted settings along with freshly cut stones knowledgeably strung by hand; both are easy to pair with current clothing fashions and trends. Designer name handbags and vintage clutches and purses can complete any desired look. Vintage costume jewelry abounds as well as Paula’s ability to give the item’s varied histories.



[Paula’s Antiques, 430 E. 25th St., Ste 61, Tacoma, 253.627.8219, www.paulasantiques.com]