Pelican Cottage

Experience Great Shopping Where Shopping is a Great Experience

Written by Suzi Harkola and Photographed by Albertine Ellinwood

Shoppers visiting Pelican Cottage in Osprey enter a furniture and accessories store that is truly unique, one where their senses are awakened by the gentle sounds of tropical music, the colorful, attractively arranged room vignettes, and a quaint, welcoming feeling. Drawn into the shop, their first reaction is excitement because there is so much to see and absorb. As they wind their way among the beautiful room groupings, customers will quickly note accessories and outstanding works of art, meticulously displayed by color and style. Fresh-baked cookies are always available, a thoughtful gesture that adds to the store’s considerable warmth and charm.

Pelican Cottage offers a winning combination of Caribbean, Shabby Chic, Traditional and Contemporary styles in the 10,000-square-foot showroom. Every item, whether new or gently used, is of excellent quality, with many high-end manufacturers represented. Furnishings by Tommy Bahama, Stanley, Lexington, Hooker, Pottery Barn and more are all tastefully arranged to create an atmosphere that invites exploration.

Proprietors Darrell and Nicki Hoke opened Pelican Cottage three years ago as a destination furniture store in Venice. This unique store experienced rapid growth and soon needed to expand because of the demand for their quality furnishings. In relocating, care was taken to maintain the character of the previous location. Darrell says, “We wanted people to have the same casual, upbeat experience as the original shop, and we’re very pleased to hear so many of our repeat customers say that it feels the same, only better.”

When asked about the strengths of Pelican Cottage, Nicki states that quality is of utmost importance. “I’m very discerning in the selection of merchandise,” she says. “It must be perfect, with no stains or damage, and of current fashion.” The shop offers new furniture, items purchased at estate sales, builder model homes, and store closeouts, as well as unique and interesting consignment pieces. Also, she adds that Pelican Cottage has become known for personal service, both in design and customer satisfaction. Her background in interior design is evident throughout the beautiful displays, and Darrell’s extensive expertise in custom homebuilding and design is showcased in the authentic Key West Cottage façade and tropical Tiki bar.

Customer service goes beyond helping shoppers find the right piece. “We’re here to help in any way we can,” Darrell explains. “We offer ‘wish list’ fulfillment – searching out items for people, as well as free storage of purchases when the customer is not ready to accept delivery. This allows people to act on one-of-a-kind pieces that they might otherwise miss out on. It also saves our customers the cost of paying for a storage facility.” Pelican Cottage also carries new furniture and the opportunity to custom-order furnishings.

Visit Pelican Cottage and soak in the eclectic ambience, where you just might leave with a wonderful treasure and a fantastic bargain.

For more information about this advertorial, call 941-966-4477, log on to PelicanCottage.net or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Pelican Cottage is located at 820 S. Tamiami Trail in Osprey. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday.