When Jennifer Jenkins left Texas to study at SCAD in Savannah, Ga., to obtain a Master in Fine Arts and subsequently become one of the school's adjunct professors, little did she know that she would end up as the owner of two popular cafés and a kitschy gift shop she named Shop the Fox.
Drawn from her mother's maiden name, Fox, this charming little shop is located next door to her first venture as an entrepreneur: Foxy Loxy Café, which opened in 2011.
In fact, Shop the Fox – which opened in 2015 – got its start on just a few shelves in the original café. But as demand grew for the unusual merchandise displayed there, Jenkins found the need to expand to the second floor of the Victorian building she owned with her parents next door.
Shop the Fox — Photo courtesy of John Waits / Shop the Fox
Much of the clientele at both the café and shop are SCAD students, which is what led to the artsy coffee slant to their merchandise, which Jenkins refers to as "quirky products, gifts and coffee products."
On any given day, you're apt to find coffee brew equipment sitting alongside books, original artwork, prints, stationery and assorted gifts, some of which you'll also find at Foxy Loxy.
Horchata-flavored soap, backgammon boards, books, sketch pads, pens, pencils and other art supplies are available, along with what Jenkins fondly refers to as "rustic items," as well as an array of prints of Texas farm scenes. The state is obviously still dear to her heart.
A "Navy brat who grew up all over," Jenkins admits to calling Texas home. But after 12 years, she feels like she's "from Savannah."
She will also tell you that they're always looking for unique items, and they attend many gift shows to "scout them out."
Indoor coffee plants are a "hot-seller" – and make a good house-warming gift – and there are many things you might find on a coffee barista's wish list, including locally roasted coffee from PERC Coffee Roasters.
Among the coffee musts you'll find here? Filters, coffee grinders, brewers, equipment for espresso, frothing pitches, thermometers and more.
Not surprisingly, Shop the Fox is listed as a certified provider of brew equipment, and it's become a favorite shopping stop for other coffee shops in the area.
Extended hours are offered the first Friday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in honor of Friday Art March. Otherwise, Shop the Fox is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. (noon) to 5 p.m.
If you're not in the area, their online store offers a variety of coffee brew equipment, whole bean coffee and gifts, all with a $5 flat-rate shipping charge.
