Safety Harbor Galleria Gets Spring Makeover

The Safety Harbor Galleria is already considered one of the most popular places in town.

With an eclectic collection of fashions, artwork and accessories being sold by a group of personable merchants, the place has a unique, colorful aura that personifies Safety Harbor.

And if owner April Hayes has her way, the downtown shop will be even better come springtime.

"We're upgrading our look, sprucing up in time for spring," Hayes said. "We've already added a fence, which will be painted white, and painted the building so all the outside walls match."

"Also, I'm going to a big show in Orlando later this month, and I'll be bringing back a lot of handmade, one-of-a-kind items."

In addition to the new lines, which include Flax Designs clothing and Ficklesticks fabric jewelery, Hayes has a nice mix of old favorites and new merchants populating the shop.

"We still have some of the original artists and vendors, like Val (Seeney) from Southern Hospitality, Jean (Neland) with her teapot lamps and art and furniture by local artist Melissa Haakon," Hayes said.

"But we also have Cameil (Leschinsky) here now with her footwear, Kathy Bushman's wine bottle lamps and a whole new line of clothes and jewelry."

Hayes has also started hosting special events at the shop, including a recent appearance by local jazz musician Masa Goto during 3rd Friday in December.

She said the weather was a bit chilly for that show, but that won't be a problem by the time all the upgrades and additions are completed.

"We're so excited for the spring!" she said.

Safety Harbor Galleria

Address: 123 2nd Ave. S.

Phone: 727-799-1600

Hours: Mon - Thu, Sat, Sun, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Fri, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. (open later on 3rd Fridays)