Unique Holiday Gifts from Richmond's Shores

Published: December, 2008 

However, some of the most unique and thoughtful gifts are found in out-of-the-way places. When you do your annual holiday shopping this year, consider the wonderful and one-of-a-kind products that are available or made along Richmond’s waterfront, including Point Richmond, one of its prized neighborhoods. Point Richmond is well known for its extensive artist community, which is quite evident when you stroll the streets of this hidden oasis of distinctive shops and galleries. Furthermore, several manufacturing companies located along Richmond’s shoreline produce popular items that are readily available online or at local retailers.

Step into Guillermina Oriental Arts and Antiques shop and you will find yourself surrounded by exotic objects sure to please every personality. Point Richmond resident Guillermina LaFever has traveled the world, bringing Asian antiques and collectibles back home to her shop on West Richmond Avenue. In the trade for over 25 years, LaFever has personally selected an array of treasures from Japan, China, the Philippines, Burma, Thailand and beyond. The antiques are impressive and the trinkets are delightful, while the jewelry and adornment objects of art can’t be found anywhere else. In addition to her buying trips overseas, LaFever has acquired items from private collectors that haven’t been on the market for decades. Her loyal clientele are always eager to reunite with her after her latest journey to see what new treasures she’s brought home.

Guillermina’s collection of Asian antiques is sure to impress the most discerning collector, whether it’s a Chinese wedding bed or Japanese tansu to create a focal point in your home, or perhaps a charming Kokeshi doll or netsuke to bring a smile to your favorite person’s face. The shop also boasts a wide variety of unusual and charming budget friendly items and, especially for this holiday season, a collection of gifts priced at under $10.

Looking for distinctive and affordable gifts? The Art Lounge in Point Richmond offers an unusual range of gifts from all over the world at below-wholesale prices everyday. The store features jewelry made of the hottest trends like Murano glass from Italy and magnetic Hematite as well as freshwater pearls, U.S.-made porcelain dolls, beaded bags, oil burners, Swarovsky hair clips, fashionable hand-painted reader glasses and handmade earrings. Plus men’s silk ties and leather wallets are 75% off retail prices everyday. The Art Lounge only buys handmade and handcrafted merchandise directly from the manufacturer on a clearance or liquidation basis in order to bring the best discount price to the customer. Many of the items are bought directly from small villages to the store, offering a unique range of items every month. The Art Lounge is a unique retail environment that provides rare customer service in an intimate casual setting. There are hundreds of items priced at only $5 to choose from, and they even offer quantity discounts.

Outback in the Temple of Venus is a newer Point Richmond clothing outlet, but the store has actually been in business for about 28 years. It originally opened in Berkeley, then relocated to Emeryville for several years before moving to quaint Point Richmond last year. Owner and designer Devi, who loves her new location, says that living in Point Richmond and then opening this shop here has been such a blessing adding, somehow Point Richmond has stayed under the radar, but this is the Bay Areas’ best-kept secret with its yummy international restaurants, cool shops and other amenities. Devi’s Temple Store is a clothing outlet that passes the savings on to its customers. It specializes in designer and high-end lines, but also offers products at all price points including unique gift items, cards, art and other unusual eclectic pieces.

If you are looking for something completely different for the person who has everything, consider creating a handmade gift yourself with the help of The Nova Studio. Lori Nova began making natural bath and body products in her kitchen in 2000 as a way to make family and friends homemade, practical gifts. Shortly thereafter, it only seemed natural to combine her passion for the new hobby with her training and love for teaching, so she opened The Nova Studio in Point Richmond to great success. The Nova Studio features classes in making soaps, bath and body products, perfumes and candles. According to Nova, My goal is to provide a creative space that encourages both students and teachers to find and share their passions with the community.

So when considering where to go this year for your holiday shopping needs, don’t forget the unique and wonderfully exceptional shops located along Richmond’s beautiful shoreline. We have also included a list of numerous additional locations in Richmond that can provide unique, high-quality gift ideas. This year, you’re sure to find something delightful and affordable in Richmond.