Jackson Square has new look and vacancies

Jackson Square in downtown Fallbrook has a new look. Now it needs some new renters.

Thanks to the removal of a building located behind the children's clothing store Sunshine Kids at 123 N. Main, the inner courtyard in Jackson Square is now more spacious and features a covered patio area.

"We took out the old building that was built back in 1980," said Caddy (Calvin) Jackson, who manages Jackson Square for his mother, Betty. "It was not very well constructed. It had a lot of water damage and was getting some mold in the walls, so we decided it would be better just to tear the whole thing down and put in a covered patio."

Jackson said he envisions the expanded but still cozy courtyard being used for special events or gatherings, and even intimate concerts.

"We see it as area for receptions or birthday parties, that type of thing," said Jackson. "Ken Rexrode, who does a lot of musical events, will be managing it for us. So part of the image is you might have a little concert in there."

Rexrode runs RexRode Productions, an entertainment company that specializes in creating and producing musical productions. Rexrode believes the new courtyard can be used in a variety of ways.

"I think it is going to be a really nice space for the community," said Rexrode. "It can hold up to 125 people. I envision doing some musical events there for the community, like singer-songwriter nights where three or four people do a 40-minute set. Another vision is a monthly movie night.

"I believe it can be an asset for downtown Fallbrook because it can be a venue for events that will give people a reason to come downtown," continued Rexrode, who added that people can also book the courtyard for private events by calling (760) 822-2185.

The building that was torn down was last occupied by the clothing store The Patchwork Pony, one of three business to have left Jackson Square this year.

Golden Kitchen, a Thai restaurant that opened in August 2014 and occupied an upstairs location in Jackson Square, just failed to make its two-year anniversary when it closed at the end of July. Florist the Social Flower moved out of its small shop in Jackson Square in June and relocated to Valley Fort Village (3757 South Mission Rd.).

Businesses currently operating in Jackson Square are Simply Vintage, a store that showcases classic collectibles such as vintage jewelry, glassware, and home decor; Tea Lane, a beautifully-decorated tea room that serves sandwiches, salads and desserts in addition to an amazing variety of teas; Sunshine Kids, a boutique story that sells children's clothing, unique toys and gifts; and UpCountri Homes & Estates, a boutique real estate brokerage company serving North County San Diego, the coast, and surrounding areas.

Caitlyn Cole, who has worked at Simply Vintage since it took over occupancy of 119 N. Main from The Broken Chair used furniture store 2 1/2 years ago, said special events really help business.

"We stay open to 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. on (Fallbrook) summer nights," said Cole, referring to the downtown street parties put on by the Fallbrook Village Association. The last of three Fallbrook Summer nights will be held Friday, Aug. 19, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

"We also participate in wine and bites," said Cole, referring to the event put on the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce that affords people the opportunity to stroll the downtown district while stopping at several venues for some wine, a bite of gourmet food, and a unique art experience.

If Rexrode is successful in bringing events to the improved courtyard, Simply Vintage may be staying open late more often, and perhaps other shops will be attracted to fill the vacancies at Jackson Square.