Blog - Intentionalist

The Handmade Showroom Uplifts Artists and Gives a New Meaning to Handmade

The Handmade Showroom storefront in Pacific Place Mall in Seattle, WA. (Photo: The Handmade Showroom) For Marlo Miyashiro, opening The Handmade Showroom wasn’t just about fulfilling a dream — it’s what her entire life had led up to. “Having this store is sort of the culmination...

Adorned Abode: Unique, Eclectic, Thoughtfully Curated

Benita Smith, curator and owner at Adorned Abode in Tacoma, WA. The idea for Adorned Abode began with a rolling pin. Not just your average rolling pin — one that was crafted in Poland and embossed with an intricate pattern that imprinted on dough when rolled out. It was specialty...

#BeIntentional: New Year’s Advice from Mental Health Professionals

As the new year begins, we often take time to reflect on the previous year, and 2020 was a year of tremendous turbulence. This past year ushered in many challenges and new circumstances that left people across the country feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and fatigued. According to the CDC, 40% of...

Moments of Hope in 2020

In a year filled to the brim with uncertainty, heartbreak, and the associated ups and downs, we want to take a moment to focus on what helps so many of us get through a time like this: hope. We shared some of the moments that brought us hope throughout this challenging year, and now we’re pleased to be able to share some of the small...

2020 Year End InTENtional List

Illustration by Alex McGuire This year has been an overwhelming, exhausting, paradoxical intersection of heartbreak and hope. Undoubtedly it has been the worst of times for so many small businesses. 2020 has provided a reminder of the fragility of the local shops, restaurants, cafes, and more at the heart of our communities. And while we can’t...

KOBO Owner Celebrates 25 Years and Reflects on Community Resilience

“In the beginning, we never thought this was going to last 25 years,” Binko Chiong-Bisbee said, full of emotion. From left to right: John Bisbee, Binko Chiong-Bisbee, and their daughter Aya Bisbee Fighting back tears, Chiong-Bisbee recounted one of the early obstacles that she and her...

InTENtionalist Gift Guide: 10 Last Minute Gifts

The holidays are upon us! Still don't have your shopping done? Don't panic! After a year like this, it can feel like the celebrations have snuck up you. If you live in the Seattle area, we have you covered. Check out our top 10 gifts that you can pick up in a pinch....

#SpendLikeItMatters This Holiday Season: Curbside Pickup Edition

We know that the holidays are arriving in a hurry, so if you’re nervous about timing online delivery, you really ought not worry! There are so many wonderful shops nestled in your backyard, so you don’t have to search around and order presents from wide and far. Order from a...

Business Spotlight: Adorned Abode

Meet Benita Smith — master curator, gifted gifter, and owner of the gift shop Adorned Abode in Tacoma, Washington. Located in historic Freighthouse Square, Adorned Abode is the perfect place to go for thoughtfully curated gifts for the holiday season. Check out their website for unique presents or set up a private...

Small Business Everyday

At Intentionalist, we don’t think one day is anywhere near enough to show our appreciation for the small businesses we know and love. That’s why we’re teaming up with Business Impact NW to celebrate Small Business Saturday by turning it into Small Business Everyday — seven days full of activities and prizes that will help you...