Editor’s Note: Originally published August 3, 2022. Republished December 15, 2022.

It was a little disheartening to not see the J.Matheson’s nameplate on the home and gift shop anymore after over 30 years in business. After all, Judy Matheson and Everett are like ice cream and apple pie. But then I stepped into the shop and was blown away!

To be fair, Burkett’s is an Everett institution too. It opened in 1978, and current owner Holly Burkett-Pohland has been running the shop for 23 years. Whipping cream on the pie. 

Burkett’s has taken over the old J. Matheson’s space after Judy retired earlier this year. They blew out walls and kind of blew my mind. The space is brighter, feels much bigger and is filled with incredible home and gift items. 

Holly somehow knows what I like because the shop is filled with all the things I’d like in my home. And if not necessarily for my home, I’d purchase them for gifts. Good thing I don’t take my wallet when I’m on assignment.  

As I walked around the store, I felt like a tourist because the store has been transformed into similar favorite shops that I like to stop in when day-tripping to Bellingham or Port Townsend. We don’t have anything else like it in Everett. 

The merchandise selection is incredible, as are the displays. I especially loved the presentation with black and white dishware and tea towels alongside items with galvanized steel finishes. It was the first thing I saw, and I wanted to buy everything on it. 

You’ll find everything you need to set up a bar cart for celebrating summer in the backyard - including an entire fixture of cocktail napkins. There are scarves, loungewear, jewelry and personal care items like deliciously scented hand lotions. Candles, of course. Paper goods, kitchen gadgets, gift cards, and local artwork. Similar to what J. Matheson’s had, but there’s more of it, and it’s maybe a little hipper. 

I used to send people to J. Matheson’s for baby gifts, but Burkett’s selection was little light. However, I have to say there was some space to grow, so I expect we may see a more comprehensive selection down the road. 

I’m so happy Burkett’s has stepped up and filled the space incredibly well, so 2615 Colby Ave will continue to be Everett’s go-to gift shop. 

Burkett’s Home + Gifts
2615 Colby Avenue
Everett, WA 98201
(425) 252-2389

Linda War Bonnet represents south Everett on the Live in Everett Team. When she isn’t working, she is running the Westmont-Holly Neighborhood Association. You might spot her walking her dog in the Holly neighborhood.