by Sarah Stefaniuk | Apr 9, 2020 | Gift Inspirations, Montclair Village & Piedmont Ave, Women's Style
We started our Shop Local Oakland adventures in February 2019 knowing that Oakland had a burgeoning independent retailing scene. But we must confess: We had no idea just how dynamic, diverse, and vibrant our local shopping is. And the merchants are all Oakland... 
by Sarah Stefaniuk | Jan 17, 2020 | Kids Style & Stuff, Leisure & Entertainment, Montclair Village & Piedmont Ave
Pssst. You want to know a secret? There’s this cool comic book store on Piedmont Ave called Dr Comics & Mr Games. It’s an unknown entity to many–hidden away in plain sight on Piedmont Ave. But, it’s actually a thirty-two year-old... 
by Sarah Stefaniuk | Jan 10, 2020 | Gift Inspirations, Home Goods & Decor, Montclair Village & Piedmont Ave
A Bella Ceramica story. Have you ever been to Italy and explored the little ancient towns? And, one day you and your travel companion just happen to stumble upon an old local shop — it’s probably been there for twenty years–and it’s filled with... 
by Sarah Stefaniuk | Jan 9, 2020 | Body & Soul, DIY & Do-It-Together Creativity, Gift Inspirations, Montclair Village & Piedmont Ave
Every neighborhood needs a Rare Bird Gift Shop and Artists Studio. But, then again, it wouldn’t be a Rare Bird anymore. Perhaps that’s one of the reasons shopping local is so special. Indeed, each shop is unique and grounded in the owner’s individual... 
by Sarah Stefaniuk | Jan 8, 2020 | Montclair Village & Piedmont Ave, Women's Style
Here’s a question: Have you ever wondered how many lingerie/bra buyers at Department Stores and National and Big Box retailers are women? And, here’s another: Have you ever considered how well-trained the sales staff is in bra fit and construction? Wait,... 