Ursula

A Store I Love

$25-$100

Owl & Thistle is a perfect store for gifts for others & yourself really, as it's so hard to go in and not get something. It's owned by Keri, who sources everything herself, and even better it's in a neighborhood that is not at all full of cute gift stores (at least yet) in crown heights), so it's really been a great local go-to place.

Crown Heights, BK

http://www.owlandthistlegeneral.com/

Go to numerous craft markets, support the independent artists, craftsman, makers, get the story behind each unique product, and connect on a personal level. It's so much more satisfying than the 'made in faceless elsewhere' sea of 'stuff'.

Try to support your small local shops, instead of going to the big guys - not only more $ will stay in the local area, but also think that by shopping there you're supporting your neighborhood, as the little great store being there adds so the the whole vibe of the area.

I don't understand people skipping the small stores, driving to the big boxes, but then also complaining when small stores close up, and big boxes move into their neighborhood. It takes away from the charm, and less $ stays in the area, since profits go into the corporate overlords. Really try to think local.