A thrift store that feels more like a kicky boutique, Atterdag Village Serendipity Shoppe welcomes browsers with creative displays of goodies, all tagged with wonderfully low prices.
From vintage stoves and glassware to linens, jackets, old hats and new lotions, the eclectic inventory offers something for everyone.
The shop’s manager, Karen Novack, ran an elegant retail store in Solvang for 12 years, and after touring area thrifts, decided to go with her instincts and set up the space—which opened in April 2009—like a fancy gift shop. “Being in the heart of Solvang,” she says, “we wanted to make it more tourist-friendly, more of an upscale thrift store. “Every day is an adventure,” she adds, “because I don’t know what’s going to come in. I try to convey stories in my displays, maybe I’ll do friendship, flowers or the changing seasons. It’s really fun!” Atterdag Village Serendipity Shoppe serves residents receiving skilled nursing care for at the SYV Recovery Residence of Solvang Lutheran Home, recently renamed “Atterdag Village.” Proceeds from sales benefit residents who have exhausted their financial resources.
“The beauty of this job is that I get to help the Lutheran Home,” Karen says, “which is open to anyone. All the profits go to the seniors there, and it makes me feel good about doing the best job I can.
“The people in this Valley have been really generous,” she adds. They’ve made tons of beautiful donations. We’re truly blessed.”
Atterdag Village Serendipity Shoppe is located at 448 Atterdag Rd., Unit 1, Solvang, 688-7895, and open Tues-Sat 10-5, closed Sun. and Mon. On Tuesdays, shoppers 60 years or older get 20% off. Free gift wrapping is available October-Christmas.