The other day on the news I heard a bleak forecast regarding small businesses in this economy. The report said that 1 in 5 businesses will close. I thought about all of the mom and pop shops that I patronize and how I like that they know me and my family. I will be honest, I do shop at Target for my basic household supplies, but there is so much more variety in the boutiques around town. Here are few shops within a one block radius of Telegraph Avenue in the Temescal District of Oakland.
The other day I stumbled upon Ruby's Garden in the Temescal Plaza next to Genova Deli. How could I have missed this store for the last year? A clean and cool boutique with original art covering the walls and funky tee shirts for kids, handmade capes made by local folks, colorful ugly dolls and more. This is my type of shop. Ruby's Garden features clothing for babies and children up to age 8 and is a full service florist with delivery service available. Owners Mae and Mary are Temescalians , (Okay, I just made that word up - they work and live in Temescal and they are committed to the success of this district of Oakland.) Click here for Ruby's Garden online.
Stop by Ruby's Garden for gifts, inspirations and urban chic clothes for your kids.
The Shaver Shop is a local business that specializes in the sale and repair of knives, fine cutlery, scissors, barber and sewing equipment. Purchase new knives or maintain your old. 510-655-8742 Click Here to visit Shaver Shop online.
Article Pract's owner Christina Stork was super friendly when I stepped into her shop. She showed me the naturally dyed yarns made in Berkeley by, A Verb To Keeping Warm. Her shop features as many locally made products as possible and offers an assortment of classes. Click Here to Visit Article Pract online.
Proprietor Scott of Scout Hardware brings home inspiration to all. Showcasing uncommon goods from around the global including finds from French flea markets, no VOC paints by Mystic, window treatments, furnishings, lighting and more, Scout is an ever changing home and accessory store perfect for your Berkeley Bungalow, Rockridge Craftman, or any room that you want to add a little nostalgia. Click Here to Visit Scout Online.
