By Tonya Smith
Nestled in a nook of the Smithville pond sits one of the most amazing little shops around. Don’t get me wrong, the shops in Historic Smithville offer a huge variety of unique shopping experiences. However, the holiday season is upon us and quite often, shoppers are looking to find a one of a kind gift for that special someone. Raquel’s Home and Garden is the best kept secret in South Jersey. Raquel DeFino is not only happy to help you find that gift, but she will make sure that you come back again and again.
When you step through the front door, you are transported into a storybook illustration that is sprinkled with hidden contemporary garnish. From bath bombs to delicate scarfs, the room is a sensory waterfall washing over you as you disappear into cabinets filled with delicate jewelry, bundles of sage and fragrant room sprays. No display is empty and no corner is without color or texture. The other side of the store focuses on home decoration with hand blown glass fixtures, retro holiday decorations, the best candle selection in the region, delicate wedding and anniversary gifts and so much more.
Raquel has been in business in Historic Smithville Village for almost ten years and she knows how to keep her business fresh.
“I constantly make every effort that when customers come in they have something new to see,” said DeFino. She doesn’t just stock her store with anything. “I carry it because I love it.” She continued, “When you have a passion in your heart and soul…you can live it. I want to provide a beautiful store so that people can gift to other people and make them happy.”
DeFino is also an interior decorator and it shows in her product and store design. She realizes that the store might overwhelm some but she is always there to help with selections or suggestions. She is the quintessential entrepreneur with a heart and genuine passion for her work.
Don’t get anxiety over the gift giving season. Raquel’s Home and Garden will make it the most memorable for anyone on your list. “This year we are combining gift ideas into gift baskets and creating ready to pickup groupings.” said Raquel. “I feel we have wonderful things to make people laugh and cheer a person up! I love finding the perfect gift.”
Tonya Smith has been in the journalism for over twenty years. She has predominantly covered music and entertainment since her college years in Missouri. Moving to Atlantic County from NYC, she has found herself covering both entertainment and the local beat with Shore Local Magazine.
