Photos

By Jane Knoerle
Almanac Lifestyles Editor

The Picket Fence, a boutique home decor business, is now open in its newest location, 883 Santa Cruz Ave. in Menlo Park. Although the name might suggest artsy-crafty merchandise, the Picket Fence features elegant tableware, fine linens, home decor accents and gifts, and some gorgeous jewelry.

"There seemed to be a need for a greater selection of bedding and tabletop in the Silicon Valley," says owner Lynn Simpson of Woodside. "Our goal is to fill in the missing pieces larger department stores have left out."

Ms. Simpson also owns the Picket Fence in Sun Valley, Idaho, which opened nearly 25 years ago. The Sun Valley showrooms occupy more than 8,000 square-feet. There is an online business as well at thepicketfence.com.

The selection at the Picket Fence ranges from a jar of black fig jam imported from France ($13.50) to a "Faded Glory" pillow depicting the American flag ($610). This is the place to choose from 20 different napkins rings, select a coffee table book, such as "Entertaining Sun Valley Style," or a gold and diamond locket by Monica Rich Kosann. Gifts from French milled soap to fine linens receive a complimentary wrap.

Store manager Sue Lotti says reception in Menlo Park has been great. "Oh, my gosh, we've had a tremendous response. Customers say they are very happy we're here. Now they don't have to go into the city for a gift." Quite a few visitors have been familiar with the Sun Valley store.

Open since July 16, The Picket Fence is in the process of expanding next door to space formerly occupied by Pink Tangerine. The newest space will be devoted to high-end linens, mostly imported from France and Italy. The original space will feature tableware, home decor accents and gifts. "We're still a work in progress here," says Ms. Lotti.

On Friday, Oct. 5, the store will feature a trunk show of tablecloths and napkins from the French firm of Garnier-Thiebault.

The Picket Fence is open from Monday through Saturday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday. The phone number is 391-9458.

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