Cami Grichel has a talent for handpicking jewelry or, as she likes to say, “all things sparkly.” In 2003, her passion led her to open Whimsey, a designer jewelry gallery in Bellingham’s Historic Fairhaven District.
The shop features one-of-a-kind necklaces, rings, pendants, bracelets, and other creations from nearly 30 designers. Many artists are local and regional, but the store also features international designers from France, Brazil, and Canada.

A Dresser Full of Treasure
As a little girl, Grichel upped the ante on playing dress-up, thanks to a dresser full of jewelry at her grandmother’s house. She spent hours sifting through each drawer, lining her wrists in bracelets, covering her fingers with big, shiny rings, and trying on giant sparkly clip-on earrings.
Years later, she is surrounded by a similar treasure chest of sparkly gems and stones. Her creative streak goes beyond sourcing beautiful and unique jewelry; you can feel it in the space itself. Her gallery has an inviting atmosphere that begins with whimsical butterfly garland dangling in the windows, framed art accented by red walls, and displays fashioned for each artist’s creations.

Get Your Sparkle On
To get the full experience of seeing, touching, and donning these unique creations—including gold, rose gold, and yellow gold jewelry—be sure to stop by the gallery. If you’re on the hunt for a unique gift, the store also has plenty of other items,such as bright-colored flasks, compacts, and candles. For those unable to visit the gallery, the online store sells select items, including citrine drop earrings and sterling spiral earrings.
“The experience in our store is all about customer service and helping people find that right item,whether it is at our gallery or another local business,” Grichel says. “It’s very important to me that customers love their jewelry for years to come.”
She also has 14 karat gold and diamond jewelry in stock to round out her selection. Sterling silver jewelry costs around$40 to $100, whereas gold pieces can cost several hundred.
“I actually have a huge variety and price range,” Grichel says. “My intention is that I have something for everyone. But I also want to cater to someone like the 50-year-old woman who wants to treat herself.” 1001 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.5568, shopwhimsey.com
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