If you’ve ever found yourself looking for “a little something” to celebrate a friend or just to treat yourself, Rhett Quattlebaum knows exactly how you feel. In fact, it’s what inspired her to open her new shop on 21st Street in Ghent, where the browsing is as inviting as a summer evening on a Southern porch.
Quattlebaum, a North Carolina native, brings a touch of Southern hospitality and style to this carefully curated boutique. With a background in education and a passion for unique finds, Quattlebaum envisioned a space where women could discover that “little something” special – and often leave with much more.
The name itself is a nod to the experience of many first-time shoppers to the store. “Women will come in and say, ‘I’m just looking for a little something,'” Quattlebaum says, recognizing it as an unspoken request for assistance in finding the perfect item.
Stepping into “A Little Something” is like entering a stylish home. Quattlebaum’s husband, who handled the construction, created a welcoming backdrop with hardwood floors and a thoughtfully designed interior. The shop is a delightful mix of color and texture, showcasing Quattlebaum’s finds from her travels.
Here, shoppers can browse a diverse selection, from dressy apparel suitable for special events and fun athletic wear like tennis skirts, to unique home goods. You’ll also find fragrant candles – including the ever-popular lotion candles – and even laundry detergent that adds “a little something” to your next load of laundry. Accessories are aplenty, with costume and 14-karat gold jewelry, stylish bags and even some fun cocktail mixers. Quattlebaum’s Southern roots shine through in offerings like Lily Pulitzer-esque coolers and a general appreciation for classic, quality pieces.
Quattlebaum praises the collaborative spirit of her fellow 21st Street merchants. “If someone goes to one store and they can’t find what they’re looking for, they’ll say, ‘Oh, try A Little Something,'” she says. “We all kind of uplift each other.”
While Quattlebaum curates items from across the country, she’s also open to featuring local vendors who meet her standards of quality and uniqueness.
Aside from offering a delightful shopping experience, Quattlebaum’s true passion lies in helping women feel confident. “I don’t really believe in trends,” she says. “I believe in a woman who walks into a room with self-confidence, and I want to make sure she feels that when she leaves here.”
A Little Something
325 W. 21st St.
Norfolk, VA
