The Traveler

Issue date: 4/29/09 Section: Lifestyles

Media Credit: Courtesy Photo

Some of the greatest things about Fayetteville are the local stores that can be found on every corner, each offering their own unique flair and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Riffraff, a newly opened home décor boutique, made its home here this past February, thriving with exclusive treasures that radiate the beauty and hard work that was put into every creation.

The UA's very own Kristen Blowers opened Riffraff during her senior year.

"I have always dreamt of opening my own home boutique, and I was given the opportunity this year and ran with it," said Blowers, an interior design major. "I'm not really one to hold back, and I've enjoyed every moment of the process."

Riffraff features repurposed furniture and artwork by local artisans. Because repurposed furniture is repainted, refurnished and reupholstered, each item is eco-friendly and cost efficient. Customers can purchase beautiful works of art that appeals to their individuality and play a part in lowering their carbon footprint.

The boutique also features a variety of local artists - from art majors to stay-at-home moms - who contribute their work.

"It's a wonderful way ... to keep it local," Blowers said.

The store carries items that are perfect for vintage-chic fans, and the decorative accessories and art are so funky and full of life, it's hard not to fall in love with everything.

"Riffraff is very unique," Blowers said. "We can never guess what we will be carrying next. It all depends on what unique items we find to repurpose. We tend to gravitate toward larger furniture items as they make the most dramatic effect in a room and they have the fastest turnaround just for that reason."

The store brings in new items every day, so there is always something to look forward to. With affordable prices and literally one-of-a-kind items, Riffraff is a great addition to local businesses.

Blowers recently began a new project in which a different, locally effected charity will be featured each month on the store's blog, http://shopriffraff.blogspot.com/. Riffraff will advertise that charity one Saturday for that month and also will donate a portion of Riffraff's proceeds to the chosen charity.

"I honestly think that to be truly happy you must give back, and this is how I have decided to do so," Blowers said.

Riffraff is located on East Mission Boulevard and is open from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday.

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