SANDPOINT — It was 45 years ago when Marilyn Sabella dreamed of bringing a bit of European flair to downtown Sandpoint.

Then, like today, the charm of a European boutique can be found at the iconic Eve’s Leaves which recently celebrated its 45th anniversary.

It was spring 1980 when the lifelong Sandpoint resident went out on a limb and borrowed money to launch Eve’s Leaves, an iconic downtown clothing store and one of the longest-operating locally owned businesses in Sandpoint. 

The store’s first home was in the back of the Hunt Building, but that only lasted for about 18 months. 

Along with a wine shop, a European bakery and a new-age bookstore, the addition of Eve’s Leaves created an open-concept European vibe. However, that location only lasted a short time after Sabella noticed a deep fryer being carried up the back steps by a new tenant.

Sabella knew she had to “get out.” 

By luck, Avco Finance Company was moving out of their office right across the street, Sabella purchased their lease and Eve’s Leaves was on the move.

While happy to find a new home for her clothing store, Sabella first had to recreate the unique shopping experience she had built across the street. That meant moving the mural that represents Eve’s Leaves had to be moved from one location to the other. Fortunately, artist Doug Jones knew how to do it. 

Sabella and Jones devised a plan using graphite and tracing paper, Once every line of the mural had been copied, the design of the intricate pattern was taken to the walls of the new space.

Sabella remembers the day well when people just came out to help. With pizza and beer and Jones as the ringmaster, the task was completed.

“He’d hand you a can of paint and say, “This is dark green, you do the stems; this is light green, you’ll do the leaves; here’s a can of yellow, you’ll do the little dots at the center of the flower,” Sabella said.

Soon, the repainted mural was complete.

Within two weeks, Eve’s Leaves moved into its new location — 326 N. First Ave. — and remains there to this day.

Since the first, Sabella’s theme for the clothing store has been “casual elegance” with an inventory of unique, easy-to-wear pieces. Buying fashion made of natural fibers, designed by artists, and manufactured in the U.S. and Canada is a priority. 

“Fashion is finding the right things to wear that make us feel better,” Sabella said.

While she can’t imagine doing anything else, Sabella said there have been many challenges over the years.

During the economic downturn of the 1980s, Sabella remembers seeing nine small businesses closing in downtown Sandpoint Even through the COVID-19 pandemic, Eve’s Leaves has survived.  

“I am so grateful to still be here,” Sabella said.

From the start, Sabella said her greatest reward has been the people and she looks forward to those who return at certain times each year. Many, she added, have turned into close friends and maintain close relationships with those she helps find the perfect outfits.

At one point, that resulted in “care packages” for customers who could no longer come into the store. The customers would call with clothing requests with custom packages created and shipped.

Maybe this was the first “online shopping.”

Sabella’s commitment to customers has inspired a legacy of shopping where original customers, who are now grandmothers, are bringing their granddaughters to find their own special clothes at Eve’s Leaves.

In return, her customers are faithful followers, knowing they will be taken care of and will get great clothes and a great price.

Taking great care of her customers is Sabella’s priority. Providing alterations on in-store purchases bears no cost to the customer. She wants her customers to have a great fit and feel good in their clothes. Clothing can be shipped, orders can be taken over the phone, and exchanges are gladly accepted, Sabella said. The goal is to make sure the customers are happy. 

“That’s what we do,” Sabella said.

Helping treat her customers right are an amazing staff who are as dedicated to helping clients feel special as she is, Sabella said.

“My employees are the best,” she added.

Many people have worked at the store throughout the years; some for short periods of time and others much longer. Mary, who has worked at Eve’s for 32 years, agrees with Sabella.

“We have the best customers! I love getting a chance to see everybody when they come in,” Mary said.

“Eve’s Leaves has never felt like work! We get to look at beautiful clothes and chat with ladies who quite often are planning a fun adventure,” said Sonja. “Marilyn trusts us.”

Barbro, who has worked at Eve’s for 26 years, said Sabella is “not only a boss, she is a trusted friend you can depend upon. She is family.”

The store’s first 45 years have gone in a blink and as the summer season approaches and tourists flock to Sandpoint, the future looks bright for Eve’s Leaves.

“I can’t imagine retiring,” Sabella said. “Every day I am doing something related to the store.”