'Love corner' could get new member

Oakland Tribune, Feb 17, 2005 by By Tara Ramroop

SAN MATEO -- Forget hearts and Cupid -- the symbol of love may start to look more like the intersection of South San Mateo Drive and Third Avenue.

See's Candies, Sandra Caron European Spa, Steiner's Jewelry and Edmond's Plaza Florist are all within steps of each other on the same intersection. Sharona Sasounian, an Edmond's employee, dubbed it the "love corner" and wants to make it even more amorous with her new store.

Sasounian is planning for a "high-end" gift shop at the 315 South San Mateo Drive property, next door to her brother Edmond's shop. This weekend, the two-story space played host to dozens of Valentine's flower arrangements. But if her plans go as expected, it'll soon house candles, lace, some furniture and maybe lingerie.

"I want to bring a touch of L.A. here," Sasounian said. "Downtown needs more of that."

Sasounian isn't the only one who thinks downtown could use a touch of class. City officials were ecstatic when Jos A. Bank Clothiers, a high-end men's clothing shop, opened in November.

The city's Economic Development and Business Assistance commercial-space listing shows 19 retail spots open downtown. The 315 South San Mateo property itself was vacant for a few years after Ross Radio & Television closed down.

Staff writer Tara Ramroop covers San Mateo. She can be reached at (650) 348-4302 or by e-mail at tramroop@sanmateocountytimes.com .