Wow, this is no ordinary gift store…read more There are quite a few shops selling home wares, cards, candles and other gift-y items on Mission Street in South Pasadena. This place, however immediately stands out. When I passed by the store the first time I was struck by a collection of headwear: a beaded cap from the Congo and a hat from the Miao people of China and Southeast Asia. I'm an anthropologist, so I was hooked. This store has an incredibly curated collection: folk altars and santos from Latin America, bronze Buddhist statues and jewelry from around the world. The owner is quite a world traveler and it shows in her collection. Definitely a place for the culturally curious. Along with the numerous artifacts are small gifts: some wonderfully fragrant soaps (my favorites were rose geranium and patchouli/sandalwood), beeswax candles and some interesting kitchenware. People might find some items pricy...however, having done some research, most things are very reasonably priced for the quality. Definitely recommend.

I noticed this store as I was driving by and knew I had to go in! It is a hidden treasure near the…read moreheart of South Pasadena. Great vibe with a unique collection of items. The store owner, Sue, was such a lovely woman to talk to. Will definitely be returning.

I booked a same-day appointment early in the morning after looking for something fun for my kids to…read moredo. Our reservation was for 1:30 p.m., and we arrived a little early to make sure we could find the place without rushing. When we got there, no one was there. Since it's an appointment-only studio, I completely understood that they aren't open for walk-ins. I called the number on the door, and the person I spoke with confirmed they would be there shortly--about 20 minutes. Unfortunately, it ended up being closer to 30 minutes before someone arrived. By then, my girls were getting restless and were ready to leave. The only reason I waited it out was because I had read about the cancellation fee on their website and didn't want to risk being charged. Once we got inside, though, the experience completely turned around. The shop owner was incredibly patient with my girls, walking them through their decoden creations and making sure they had everything they needed. They genuinely had a great time, and it was a fun, creative activity that kept them engaged. There was one more hiccup at checkout--they initially charged us the additional sitting fee per person because they hadn't realized we had already booked an appointment. Thankfully, they caught the mistake afterward and promptly refunded the extra charge, which I appreciated. Would I come back? Maybe. The activity itself was a lot of fun, and the customer service during the crafting experience was warm and attentive. However, the delayed opening and the confusion over our reservation made the visit feel a little disorganized. If the appointment process were smoother, I'd be much more inclined to return.

What a charming and creative little gem! My husband and I came here for a fun, hands-on escape, and…read moreit was exactly what we needed. I decorated a mirror while he crafted a candle, and we both loved the experience! With how busy life gets, it's rare we get to slow down and do something artsy and relaxing together. This place gave us that opportunity, and I truly enjoyed every moment. It was so much fun! Highly recommended. Whether you're looking to make special memories with your partner, kids, or the whole family, this is the perfect spot!

When I shop for gifts outside of my neighborhood (East Hollywood), Retreat is my go-to…read more Diane, the owner, has curated a wonderful collection of jewelry, art prints, cards and fun gifts for virtually any occasion. Despite this shop's relatively small size, it is packed with goodies. My go-to is always the card section, where I invariably find a card for an upcoming birthday or, even better, the perfect card for a friend who could use a pick-me-up or a good laugh. My stationary drawer is packed with Retreat cards that I've got on the ready and I am very grateful. There is a great range of options in terms of price. You can find very fun patches and charms for around ten dollars. If you are looking a bit higher-end, there is a lovely collection of jewelry: but you are definitely paying for quality work that will be appreciated. Diane and the various employees are invariably friendly and eager to help you find something perfect for your friend or family.

This used to be one of my favorite shops, and my mom's too, but we recently had a strange and…read moreunpleasant experience. The person working there (possibly the owner, though we're not sure as we'd never encountered her before) was very rude and dismissive towards my mom. My mom was talking about her recent flight and some news she had heard about flying, as she had just arrived from out of town to visit me. The woman with short blonde hair suddenly interrupted, saying, "We DO NOT talk about that in here, NOPE! NO!" If you don't want to discuss a topic, there's a polite way to steer the conversation elsewhere. You don't need to be dismissive and rude, especially to customers. My mom felt terrible and shut down immediately. We left and won't be returning. It was a really bizarre and disappointing experience that ruined our visit.

Just received my order of various hair accessories from this exceedingly cute and quirky boutique,…read moreand it was like Christmas in August!! Not only were the products I ordered unique, they're so much more charming in person! And email communication beforehand with Miss Lena was so open and thoughtful, I felt so valued on top of the sensation of being seen by this rare shop. I'm really looking forward to an in-person visit soon!

I discovered Homage during a walking tour of Pasadena, and I'm so glad I did! The store may be…read moresmall, but it's packed with amazing finds. The jewelry is handcrafted, and many pieces include the artist's name and a short bio, which adds such a personal touch. They also carry candles, bags, greeting cards, and products for men, women, and children. The variety is impressive, and I especially appreciated the large selection of handcrafted items. The associates are friendly, welcoming, and genuine. I was greeted as soon as I walked in, and I noticed they recognized and acknowledged repeat customers. That's impressive, especially considering the number of tourists who visit the store. Another thing I appreciated is that they don't overwhelm you with emails. Their emails are event-focused and purposeful, which is refreshing. You're paying for quality, craftsmanship, and unique items you won't find just anywhere. The prices reflect the specialty merchandise they carry and the care that goes into selecting it. Parking... well, it's Pasadena! It can be challenging, with mostly metered street parking and paid parking garages nearby, but it's a pleasant walk to the store. I highly recommend Homage! It's a wonderful place to find unique gifts or treat yourself to something special.

Amazing selection of beads ranging from Toho, Miyuki, Matsuno, to Japanese generic seed beads from…read more8/0 to 15/0. They start at less than $2 for 7.5-10g. At the entrance, there is a section of discounted beads. Near the back of the shop, they have crystal beads and other unique singular beads for purchase. They also have threads, ring jumps, headpins, and other tools but some of them are expensive. During my first visit, I wasn't greeted but I went out of my way to build rapport with one of the owners, I assume, who did eventually open up. There was a kid rollerblading in the shop, extremely anxiety-inducing and unprofessional. My second visit was more positive. A younger lady greeted me at the front mentioning to let her know if I needed any help and the kids were more tamed.

This place is an absolute gem. Great location, easy parking, and the kind of shop you can happily…read morespend way more time in than you planned. The inventory is incredible--eclectic, unique, and full of beautiful beads, materials, and everything you could possibly need for jewelry-making. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking for something specific, they have it all--beads, string, findings, and so many inspiring options you won't see just anywhere. What really sets this shop apart, though, is Christina. She is truly the heart of the place. She's warm, funny, incredibly knowledgeable, and just an all-around joy to be around. She can help you design something custom, guide you through making it yourself, or even create it for you. And if you need repairs, she's amazing at that too. They also offer classes, which is such a great touch--I took one on making bracelets and it was such a fun experience. What a cool thing to be able to do locally. Honestly, I never thought I'd say this, but I actually look forward to needing repairs--because it means I get to come back and see Christina. She makes every visit feel personal and fun, and you always leave in a better mood than when you walked in. Such a wonderful shop with a truly special owner. Highly recommend checking it out.

This has become my favorite stop to get funny, cool, and just better greeting cards than other…read moreplaces. I was fortunate enough to work briefly in the area last year and found this shop on my lunch walk. So many cool gifts, jewelry, etc. I love small shops with unique gifts like this that rotate artists, etc. Kind of hidden on the back streets of old town Pasadena. From now on, I'll always stop by and check if there's (at least) a new card to add to my collection. Don't forget to ask about their "secret stash" of additional cards, too.

The Retreat shop on Holly Street is the second of this small chain: the first is located in South…read morePasadena on Mission. The location is wonderful. Many people who shop in Old Town Pasadena focus on the stores easily accessible from the main street, Colorado. However, some of the shops off the main drag, such as the ones on Holly Street, are unique and fascinating. The two Retreats do share merchandise in common. You will find a bevy of delightful greeting cards, jewelry and candles at both. However, I would strongly encourage you to visit both shops, because each has some items that you won't find at the other location. It was at this shop that I first saw the owner's, Diane, artwork on display. She's made a significant collection of gorgeous, shimmering mandalas. I remember the first time I saw them a couple year ago and I was quite impressed. Since then, you will see more of her mandalas at both Retreat locations, as well as some of the pieces that evolved from her work with these pieces of sacred geometry. Like the other Retreat, this is an excellent gift shop. My stationary drawer is positively overflowing with cards I've bough here. I love shopping at Retreat because I always find something, small or large, that's just right for a friend of mine. Whenever I look through the cards that I've found here I get excited for the right time to send a particular card to a particular friend or family member. It is very easy to find something for any budget. I've found so many fun trinkets, amusing coasters and clever devices to have around the house. And all of these things were around twenty dollars or less. The jewelry, of course, is going to be a bit more pricey, but I feel you are definitely paying for quality. The staff on duty have always been nothing but helpful and friendly. I always enjoy chatting with whoever is minding the store at the moment. Definitely recommend.

I was there this afternoon to return a present my husband got me from there. The woman was…read moreextremely rude to me after I said I was here for a return. She started to talk in another language with the other woman that worked there, and was ignoring me when I was trying to talk to her. I brought back everything the way it was, the jewelry hadn't been moved from the box, and they told me that I was missing the bar code and that it was not valid to take it back without the sleeve that has the bar code. I told her that I never got it, she went to the back and left me waiting for 15 min, after which I told her that I could just file a claim with my credit card company. She ended up issuing my refund while talking to the other woman about me, not acknowledging me. I felt so terrible for entering that store, it really left a bad taste in my mouth. I won't be going there again!

They have wide selection of Swarovski collections, and you may also find some that you don't see at…read moreregular Swarovski stores anymore. The staffs are very friendly and helpful too. Prices are the same as the Swarovski set prices.

Beautiful shop with the best staff and an incredible selection of artworks - from international to…read moreregionally renowned artists! It's also a massive treasure trove of tchotchkes - a must see if you haven't been. Love coming here after stopping by Mike and Anne's for brunch.

Great location and lovely shop. Lots of eye candy and unique finds for self or as gifts. The owner…read morewas present but failed to greet me. Seemed like he was preoccupied with merchandising. His shop assistant was sweeping and kind enough to say hello. There was one other person in the shop and seemed to be a personal acquaintance or friend as the owner and she spoke often to one another. Meanwhile, I buzzed around and thoroughly enjoyed both the many trinkets and decorative displays. Even the outside entry was cute and inviting. I'd pop in again if ever you n the area. I think if Carmine would have engaged a bit, I would have been more apt to browse a bit more and make a purchase. There's some adorable retro-style magnetic timers and gorgeous gold goldfish I was eyeballing. Maybe next time. Five stars for Vibe and unique finds. 2 stars for friendly and welcoming atmosphere.