When most people think about Sanibel Island, Florida their imagination instantly runs to pristine white-sand beaches, crystal clear ocean water, and a legendary treasure trove of colossal seashells.
However, this idyllic coastal community has so much more to offer than just sun, sand and seashells.
It is also home to a wide array of specialty retailers and quaint, locally-owned shops selling one-of-kind gifts that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Shops like Priscilla’s of Sanibel.
Opened in November 2020, Priscilla’s specializes in handmade gifts made by women for women of all ages, from infants to adults.
“We believe that all women have stories to tell and big dreams to achieve,” said owner Maari Simcox. “Our empowering gifts are all women-made, support self-care, and serve to help lift each other up and remind you of all that you can do.”
This vision of self-care and feminine strength can be seen in every aspect of Maari’s shop, from Priscilla’s extensive line of custom clothing to their empowering collection of baby and children’s attire and toys. They even offer an entire line of products dedicated to the late Supreme Court Justice and feminist icon, Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Portions of all proceeds also go towards supporting women advocacy groups, as well as organizations and charities for marginalized voices.
Even the name, Priscilla’s of Sanibel, pays homage to one of Simcox’s personal heroines.
“Priscilla’s is named after Priscilla Murphy – the first realtor on Sanibel Island,” Maari said. “She traveled here from Michigan in the 1940s and opened up the first real estate office on the island in the early 1950s. She was my inspiration and muse.”
Priscilla’s story – the original Priscilla, that is – closely resembles that of Maari herself. Along with her husband Chas, their children, and their dogs, Maari relocated to Sanibel Island from Minnesota to work remotely during the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Not long after arriving on the island, Maari decided to take another leap of faith and open Priscilla’s of Sanibel.
“After visiting here for my whole life, we decided to take a leap of faith and start a new adventure,” Maari said. “I feel that I have found my calling by opening Priscilla’s of Sanibel.”
It only takes one visit to this enchanting store to realize that shopping at Priscilla’s of Sanibel is about so much more than just finding cute, hand-made jewelry or picking up souvenirs for family and friends back home. It is about enjoying an experience that will fill your entire day with happiness and positivity from the moment you step through the doors.
So, the next time you’re in Sanibel Island and looking to pick up gifts for the special women in your life, be sure to stop by Priscilla’s of Sanibel and say “Hi.”