While exploring the NoDa area, I stumbled upon Blank Generation, and the moment I saw the word…read more"bookstore", I had to stop in! Total book nerd move, no regrets. This is a used bookstore with so much more to offer. Beyond books, they also carry unique knick-knacks like vintage clothing, arts, journals, and other thoughtfully curated items. The overall vibe is very bohemian and relaxing, the kind of place you can wander through and instantly feel at ease. As expected with a used bookstore, there's that classic old-book/thrift store scent, which comes with the territory and adds to the charm. The space itself is quaint, organized, and really cute. The bookstore section was my favorite, such a great selection across genres including mystery, romance, banned books, crime, and more. Truly something for everyone. I ended up purchasing two books, both reasonably priced and in great condition, which made the find even sweeter. The employee working that day was super friendly and helpful, answering my questions not only about the books but also about the surrounding area, which I really appreciated. I loved my time here and will absolutely be back to explore more books and browse the other unique items. If you're in NoDa and love bookstores with character, this spot is a must-visit.

Blank Generation is a two-room gift shop with a random assortment of jewelry, bumper stickers,…read moresunglasses and clothing in one room and bookstore in another. Stop on by for when you're around NoDa!

Definitely the best gem shop I have ever been to. Absolutely huge variety of gems minerals for the…read morebest prices I've ever seen a gem shop. I have been several times and have made purchases each time.

The staff was kind and extremely knowledgeable about the various products. Their selection was top…read morenotch! The prices were some of the best I've seen. I highly recommend Gem Avenue if you're in the area. Even if you aren't, this place is worth taking a special trip.

This store has it all! It's a used book store with excellent prices and selection. They also have a…read morecoffee shop inside that offers sandwiches as well. The other half of the large space is a Habitat for Humanity re-store with tons of furniture, Knick-knacks, lights and pretty much everything else you can think of! They have some tables throughout the bookstore that you can sit and another area upstairs with more tables. There is always a space outside where you can sit and enjoy!

This is an excellent combination of café, bookstore and thrift/furniture store. I have visited many…read moretimes over the past few years and always seem to come across something unexpected, whether that is a book, CD, vinyl record or game. The book prices are particularly good and make it easy to take a chance on an unfamiliar author or genre. The café serves very good coffee. On this visit I had a cortado, which was strong, smooth and well made. The staff were friendly, helpful and attentive without being intrusive. What I like most is the atmosphere. During my visit I saw families browsing books while enjoying a drink, friends meeting for coffee and people having informal meetings. It feels like a place where you can spend time rather than simply stop by. The balcony seating looked especially appealing for reading or quiet study, with a good view over the café below. A place with plenty of character, and one I will be returning to again.

Sooo much fun!! The cutest little house, they do have a couple designated parking spots around…read moreback, or you can find street parking in the neighborhood. The store is clean and organized in a way that is easy to navigate. All beads were clearly labeled with price. They had almost any color, or material you would want in beads. They also had sections of charms and pendants. You could really make anything- necklaces, earrings, bracelets, even keychains! There is a lot to choose from, I was a little overwhelmed at first but the staff is AMAZING. They were very well staffed and were very willing to help. There were already made pieces around the store, or they were able to look at inspo pictures and find beads/pieces that matched. Once you pick out your pieces, they give you a board to lay it out, and string to bead it on, then they take care of putting the clasp on and finishing it. They have tall tables to work at so you can stand while you work, or sit in a stool. You can drop in anytime they are open, but they are only open until 4:00 during the week. We scheduled a private party which they do after hours, is $20 a person not including jewelry, and you need a minimum of 8 people. We also brought our own drinks and snacks. As far as pricing, everything is very clearly labeled, then it was an addition $5 to put the chain and clasp on. My necklace was $40 total and most pieces made by our group ranged from $30-$60 for the most part. I will definitely be back!!

There is no other option for Brad shopping and this store does not disappoint! Great shop - big…read morewith lots of variety.

A Hidden Gem & Truly an Experience!…read more If you're looking for more than just a coffee shop, Ebony Experience is exactly what the name says--an experience. It was easy to find, and from the moment I walked in, I loved the atmosphere. You first enter a cozy bookstore filled with so many incredible books. If you're a reader, you'll be in heaven! I ended up buying two books, and I love that you can also swap books. It's such a unique concept. Then you walk through another door, and it's like stepping into a completely different space--a beautifully decorated pink tea and coffee lounge that's warm, inviting, and perfect for relaxing. There are plenty of places to sit, whether you're meeting friends, enjoying a solo date, or catching up with someone special. I had the Cookie Butter Latte, and all I can say is... chef's kiss! It was absolutely delicious and one of the best specialty lattes I've had. I'll definitely be ordering it again. One of my favorite parts of my visit was meeting the owner. She was so welcoming and genuine, and you can tell she's passionate about creating a space that brings people together. Behind the café is also a charming outdoor area featuring artwork and gathering space, and they host events throughout the month, so it's worth checking their calendar to see what's coming up. As a Black-owned business, I love supporting spaces like this that intentionally build community while offering such a unique experience. Whether you're planning a girls' outing, a solo coffee date, or a cozy date with your significant other, Ebony Experience is absolutely worth the visit. 10/10--highly recommend! I'll definitely be back.

The Merchant & Co is the Charlotte operation of their original location at Krog Street Market in…read moreAtlanta (3.9 stars, 26 reviews, https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-merchant-atlanta). It's upstairs next to Paradiso Plant Shop and is chock full of interesting Charlotte-focused gifts. We browsed through stationery, cookbooks, decor items, linens, glassware and such. I was particularly drawn to the Charlotte-themed coffee mugs but what's interesting is that everything here from the lights to the fixtures, is for sale. Yes, even the big "liquor" sign hanging from the ceiling. Lots of stuff to look at and if you're struggling with your Christmas list, this is the place to go. [Review 2080 of 2024 - 3762 in North Carolina - 23099 overall]

I live in Virginia and wanted to send my best friend flowers for condolences. I researched their…read morefloral shop (chose them at first because I thought their name was the cutest) and loved their selection of flowers. The site was very easy to navigate. They called and communicated to me my preference on delivery. My best friend received a beautiful display with my note at a timely manner. I really appreciate this shop for the ease of order and care of product. I suggest them for Monroe floral delivery.

I love this place! Friendly faces and delicious house made syrups for their curated coffee menu…read more Really easy going feel and lots of seating if you want to stick around for a while. They also have WiFi if you're looking to work away from the office. I'm always happier after I've had a coffee at August Lily. Must try if you're in Monroe.

I am a huge reader and love supporting local bookstores. I don't get to this part of town very…read moreoften and therefore have never heard of Troubadour before. I recently joined a book club and they have monthly meetings here. Actually, Troubadour hosts a bunch of book clubs so you should check that out. You can check their website and also sign up for their newsletter to get all the info. The bookstore is clean, bright, friendly, and well organized. I don't find many bookstores that have a horror section so I was glad to see they had one. Service is great and the selection of overall items is good too. Big plus for having good parking!

We just stopped by the Troubadour this morning. What a gem and on the East side of Charlotte!…read more This independent bookstore offers a wealth of books, speciality gift items, cards, seating and a cozy children's nook. Price points were fair and seemed to have something for anyone. We will definitely be making this our number one bookstore. The manager was knowledgeable and personable. He was also friendly and obviously enjoys books. I was able to find a unique gift for a friend. I look forward to receiving emails about coming events the Troubadour will be offering our community.