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Mingle
Categories: Shopping Jewelry Shopping Fashion Men's Clothing Shopping Fashion Women's Clothing Jewelry, Men's Clothing, Women's Clothing [Edit]
1815 Union St(between Octavia St & Laguna St)
San Francisco, CA 94123
Neighborhood: Marina/Cow Hollow
(415) 674-8811
- Hours:
Mon, Wed-Fri 11 am - 7 pm
Sat 11 pm - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
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97 reviews for Mingle
Review Highlights
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97 reviews in English
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Review from Shalina P.
Corona del Mar, CA
this is a cute little boutique that i discovered about 2 years ago. my favorite part of the shop is the local handmade jewelry. i bought a pair of earrings and i'm still in love with them today.
i recently went back to SF and had to stop at mingle to check it out. i came out with a sweater and 5 pieces of jewelry (1 bracelet, 1 necklace and 3 earrings). the jewelry is made of precious stones, but they are NOT large and gaudy like some jewelry made with these stones. they are delicate and a little funky! -
Review from Elaine L.
Emeryville, CA
It was a beautiful day, so what should one do? Answer: Let's go check out the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Then we drive past the Cherry Blossom Festival and notice throngs upon throngs of people squished into the festival grounds. Yikes! What should one do? Answer: Let's go shopping!
By the time I got to Mingle, my feet were sore and I had already purchased a fair amount of stuff, so suffice it to say, I wasn't really supposed to be buying anything else. That said, when I saw Mingle, I remembered that I had read some great reviews and really wanted to see for myself if it lived up to the hubbub. Besides, there was available metered parking right in front along Union St. It was like a sign from heaven, though I shouldn't be surprised: Everyone was probably still at the Cherry Blossom Festival.
The clothes were incredibly cute at Mingle, but like I said, I wasn't really out to get more clothes. I was just going to wander. Then I encounter...wait for it...the JEWELRY DISPLAYS!!! Like how I approach most tasting menus, I wanted to try everything, but given that boyfriend was beyond bored of our Saturday afternoon excursion, I needed to prioritize, so I only tried on 7 items....heehee. Trust me, that was my version of "editing."
The jewelry is unique, delicate, and quite affordable, and luckily, I had forgotten to wear jewelry today, so I was able to wear it out. Again, a sign from heaven! -
Review from Jessica t.
San Francisco, CA
A good business reflects the energy and passion of its owner.
Running a small business is no easy task and it's easy to get disenchanted.
Especially surrounded between a plethora of other fashion boutiques on Union Street.
But Mingle is special.
The Lebron James (aka King James) of the Marina.
Mingle has Mimi.
And therefore it oozes charm, individuality, and just a wonderful sense of positivity
Mimi continues to keep customers coming back to Mingle by constantly looking for new local designers to showcase in her store
She carries....
The kind of stuff that other women will cock their head and coo "oooooo where'd you get that? I've never seen a shirt like that before!"
kinda lines at.
Her stuff is...
fun, figure hugging, and some of her peices are even limited editions. (Mingle also carries a fun selection of guys items.)
Not only does Mimi have a great eye for what is unique and hip,
but she makes sure to connect with all of her customers.
Something you don't find often,
And a hard balance to achieve:
The ability to give honest advice about what will look good on a customer,
But the know-how to stay away from the whole shopping stalker thing.
Mimi excels at finding this balance.
She dishes out her shopping wisdom and clothes insights with ease.
And no pressure.
When I went into Mingle this weekend, I found the perfect hat!
A brown army-like brimmed hat, with too darling lighter brown patches on the side.
I haven't taken it off since.
(If fact I'm wearing it right now at work, while typing this)
Later tonight after work, I will put on my Lululemon sweats and light my heavenly smelling soy candle (which I also picked up at Mingle)
And just kick back and mellow out...
thanks to to Mimi's Mingle's magic. -
Review from Suge K.
San Francisco, CA
I haven't been in here yet, but I cannot wait to go. And before you get all pissed off about how I shouldn't review a place unless I've been there, sit down and shut up and listen...
I got a fantastic birthday present that was purchased here. It's a garter that is a flask holder (comes with flask too) and my lovely friend had filled it for me too! It's a pretty garter too, and comfortable to wear. Ok, so you're thinking maybe you're not a lush and you don't think you need to be wearing a flask on your leg at all times? Your loss. But why not leave the flask at home and use the flask holder as an ID/money/credit card/lipstick/key holder? That way you don't have to carry a purse OR ask your husband/boyfriend/boytoy to hold all your shit.
I can't wait to see what other treasures this place has! -
Review from phil h.
What do you look for in your shopping experience?
a) A store that stocks clothes by local designers?
b) An owner that will go out of her way to be helpful without being pushy?
c) Affordable prices for guys and gals?
d) All of the above
If you answered d) check out Mingle! Fellow yelper Mimi is super sweet and helpful with suggestions. I was trying on shirts one day and they didn't have my size...she took my phone number and called me a week later when they got one in stock that would fit me. Good stuff.Listed in: Born to Shop
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Review from stephanie i.
San Francisco, CA
A - always something cute waiting for you inside.
D - don't think you'll walk out empty handed.
O - oh yes, I know I am a bit of a compulsive shopper.
R - red. Does that bag come in red?
A - ahh it does? Great I'll take it in grey and red!
B - by the way, there are fun accessories in here too.
L - love to wander through the store everytime I pass by
E - even my girlfriend who doesn't like to shop, likes this cute little place. -
Review from Miriam W.
Small shop owners everywhere would do well to take a cue from proprietor Mimi Ting. Even in last Sunday's sweltering heat she was super sweet and chatted us up as we looked around her beautiful store (and we weren't the only shoppers.)
This sort of experience makes me want to go back to Mingle. And I will. I only hope that next time I won't be sweating profusely in record-breaking temperatures so that I may actually have the opportunity to try on clothes without being afraid of imparting my perspiration upon them.Listed in: HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE San…, San Francisco Bay Area…
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Review from T N.
Sausalito, CA
So, one day my boyfriend, for reasons unbeknownst to me, decided to try on a pair of jeans at the old man store on Union. They were over 200 bucks, which seemed especially inappropriate given that they gave me a terrifying view into the future with their depressingly saggy fit (and they were just barely on this side of stonewashed).
Fortunately, a mere few blocks down at Mingle, my boyfriend has now found several pairs of jeans, in different cool washes, that are not only half the price of the old man pair, but do justice to his (currently) hot cupcake bum and do not bring old saggy man ass visions into my head.
And it's not just jeans - Mimi has lots of cool threads which have found their way in the bf's closet, including his favorite jacket and hat. There are plenty of great women's clothing and accessories, too, including a fantastic chunky two stone ring that I am coveting. Mingle has a great selection of local designers and goods that are heads and shoulders above the standard Union Street fare.
Update: I would just like to point out a few things in regards to Mingle and its relationship with local designers. I've witnessed firsthand Mimi's excellent rapport with her designers and how well she takes care of them. She bends over backwards to accommodate them, even when it is not so beneficial to herself or Mingle. I'm sure she would love to buy directly from the designers themselves, but as a small business owner, I also understand how financially impossible that would be, especially given the extent that she seeks to represent local talent. She does an excellent job advocating local designers, and when you buy from Mingle, the money IS going to the artists.Listed in: They Can't All Be Winners., Ye Olde Hood, Fashionista Central
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Review from Yan M.
San Francisco, CA
I've never been in here until last night! What a cute lil store and Mimi was a superb host and wonderful proprietor! She transformed the store for a private party celebrating Miriam's bday and the store's 2nd yr anniversary. They have some really cute headbands, accessories, handbags and trendy clothes for guys and girls alike.
Happy Anniversary! -
Review from Scott K.
Manhattan Beach, CA
Mimi's the best!
People say that there is good shopping on union st.
.. and there its... that's to Mingle.
check out there hats too, if you are a hat person. -
Review from Jeremy P.
Westwood, CA
First, Yelp needs to add the 1/2 star option. It's not a 3, but it's not a 4 either. It's a 3 1/2.
Just bought a shirt there today, which was a great shirt, and I really liked it and it's cool, etc. They had some nice stuff for guys, but like another reviewer noted, iit's a shop mainly for women.
But, the owner noted it's all indie designers, so it's like Kweejibo, but the people in the landfill Marina would never deign to go to the Haight.
Nice store, like the shirt I bought, not a bad location (hey, it hits the right crowd in the Marina). -
Review from Sean S.
Oakland, CA
Let me add my voice to the growing chorus of yelpers in agreement about our lovely Mimi and her fabulous store.
The comfy abode in the back makes one feel like they are fare from the yuppieness of the Marina and almost on fashio shoot. In fact i had a archtect friend poisition 4 of us there for a great photo or 4. DId Mimi mind? Heck no, in fact there was bubbly and wine to spare with the task.
I positively love the clothes. Many things are priced out of my reach but as a non-profiteer, so are many things at H&M so don't let me be your guide in that regard. What you should regard is Kristina R who very well may be the best shopping companion I've ever had to date.
Some folks dance around the subject "well it looks good but you know..." or "mmm, it O does hug your hips but i wonder..."
At Mingle, Kristina R took one glance at me sliding into a too tight tee shirt and hat that was too big for my head and delivered a loud and clear "NO". Off they went because that no was delivered with the subtlety of a grenade shot off in crowded plaza.
Thanks Mimi though, for having many other choices to select from, many of which turned out to be "yes" es. -
Review from Christine G.
San Francisco, CA
Super cute store! I love that 70% of the items they sell are from local designers. I stepped in late one Sunday night with the intent of just browsing but ended up buying 3 adorable one-of-a-kind shirts.
Customer service was top-notch and the lady who helped me out even suggested a top which I loved!
Also, their jewelry is one of a kind and 100% of them are made from local designers. How cool is that?! The store is cute and definitely a keeper. Stop by when you're strolling through Union street. Their items are worth a second look. -
Review from H C.
Bay Area
After too long, I finally stepped in to Mingle and met Mimi! Meeting her in person was even better than chatting over Yelp. Her shop is just as adorable as she is!
When I heard about the sale, I had to make it down to SF. Forget the rain - it was worth it! I walked out with a super cute dress. I can't wait to wear it... Thanks Mimi!!! -
Review from Nilu r.
San Francisco, CA
Ahhhh, finally a great store on Union street. The service is fantastic, friendly, unpretentious, comfortable and helpful. The store is laid out really well. The prices are reasonable for the unique and artistic fashions you will find there. Lots of fabulously fun jewelry, little wallets and tee-shirts, good selection of clothes, and my personal favorite: BAGS! and nice bags, not cheapy crappy ones. I got myself a great bag today and that makes me so happy.
I love that the designers are local artists and the pieces are unique. I will definitely be back there. -
Review from Don Q.
Chicago, IL
Mimi's pretty cool when she's not calling me an 'idiot'.
One of these days, I'm going to teach her everything I know about style (one word: capes). In the meantime, she's got some pretty awesome stuff done by local designers to tide her over. -
Review from Lola L.
San Francisco, CA
Super cute and funky clothing boutique. They have a table of the cutest t-shirts with sassy phrases (around $30). A wall with racks of trendy clothing from tops, jackets and pants. There's also a selection of men's and baby clothing. Oh and fingerless gloves! Who in SF doesn't want one of those? Bags, belts and hats are strewn throughout. Even just to have! I was told that many of the brands are by local designers. Hearing this puts me to ease and encourages me to by more!
The sales girl was super friendly and helped me look for all the sizes I needed. The store is a bit tiny, more on the narrower side but all the cute stuff manages to fit perfectly. -
Review from Kat M.
Piedmont, Oakland, CA
My first experience with Mingle was great actually. I bought a jacket that was priced a little high, but it was cute none-the-less, a one-of-a-kind and designed locally, which is a HUGE deal to me. I didn't feel any pressure to buy and the sales clerk was super friendly and knowledgeable about everything. Too bad those extra high dollah $$$ pants I tried on weren't on sale!!
The following day, I noticed the seams in my jacket coming undone. I called and she had me bring it down and fixed it within a week. No problem!! I was very happy and will go back. I'm a little confused at what the one poster is saying about taking money from the local designers, I thought they are supportive and ONLY CARRY local designs?! -
Review from jen d.
San Francisco, CA
I didn't have nearly enough time to check out this place - I had only a few minutes to take a whirlwind tour before jetting back to the car. BUT - what I saw looked great!! I particularly loved the table of t-shirts in the middle of the store, and the patterned unique totes/bags. I can't wait to go back next weekend and take more time browsing the selection. (will update this review then!)
*Update* Nothing much more to add after the return visit. Saw a bunch of things I liked, but everything I wanted cost too much (just wasn't in the mood today). But still big props for having such a great collection of clothing. This place really beat the quality of the other stores in the area, and seems to edit their collection very well. -
Review from Anita B.
San Francisco, CA
I absolutely ADORE Mingle! Very creative and one of a kind items can be found here. I stopped in on Easter as I was just browsing on Union Street and I came out with the cutest halter dress from a local designer. So flattering andsomething that isn't going to be seen on every girl on the next corner.
Mimi was awesome and so friendly. I felt great about giving her my business and you can be assured that I will be back! Mingle is a fabulous store to have in San Francisco. Clothing is reasonably priced and one of a kind. What more can you ask for? -
Review from Priya S.
San Francisco, CA
SUUUPER selection of local and not-so-local designers. Mimi's discerning eye separates the wheat from the chaff. (Did I use that term correctly? I come from farming country, but sometimes I get my cliches wrong. Forgive me.)
The clothing selection includes something for everyone: very cool denim to awesome hats to one-of-a-kind dresses to deconstructed items to fitted and structured pieces.
So, no matter what your tastes may be, Mimi will find you something that makes you look 10x hotter than you did when walking in! -
Review from Erika G.
After a dissapointing vetnure into Blues Jean Bar, Boss Man and I strolled into Mingle and met Mimi. She owns the store and was so wonderful and very cool, on the cousp of "You Rock'ness"
Her store was filled with Indie SF designers. The clothes were fresh and different and the quality was great! Boss Man was totally stoked to find a hoody and some t's. We talked about Mimi's dog Nacho and NY.
Boss Man was happy, I was happy.
A true assest tot he SF Shopping culture here on Union Street. I am definetly going back there!!! -
Review from mama J.
San Francisco, CA
Mingle has recently become my fave boutique on Union. I went there for their Sample Sale Party with Maneater Threads (SF based on-line store--another awesome find!) and really dug the vibe. I'd gotten so sick of Union Street shopping until this little party. I thought every store had the same damn clothes (if I see another empire waste tank I might kill someone) and the same hoity-toity attitude for no reason whatsoever. But this place is not like the others.
The owner, Mimi, is bomb. She is so cute, stylish and original and, most important, honest. I tried on a few pairs of jeans (oh how I love buying jeans) and she was always waiting for me when I came out of the dressing room to evaluate them. I ended up grabbing some sweet Virtue flap-jacks (LA brand) and I always get compliments on them (bootylicious jeans--but if you have no ass, stick to True Religions) and my first pair of black jeans (Tags). Mimi paired the black jeans with a fun t-shirt (just for effect) and I ended up going back the next week to get that, too.
Mingle has a great selection of local designers and original pieces--clothing, bags, and jewelry alike--and tons of fashion t-shirts for a decent price (no $60+ ratty t-shirts here).
It's a small boutique with only 2 dressing rooms, but I think that makes the experience of shopping better because you really feel like you are getting the attention a shopper these days deserve.
If you are disillusioned by all the crap on Union, then give Mingle a try and renew your shop-aholic tendencies!
***EDIT--check out my review of Maneater Threads, too!Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Valerie F.
San Francisco, CA
A really cute store packed with stylish clothes from local designers (...and a couple LA designers) that are reasonably priced--considering that everything's unique. I bought a large structured canvas and leather bag with crocodile embossing on sale (50% off baby!!) and have been receiving compliments every time. Moral of the story: cute store, great finds, and they're even better when they've got a sale going on!!
Also, they've got mens clothes that look very urban-chic, so if this is your style...guys can finally enjoy shopping with their girlfriends! -
Review from Kyle R.
San Francisco, CA
After I moved from Wisconsin it became clear that if I did not want to look like a complete transplant I'd need to get some new clothes.
I had heard about Mingle from my sister and decided to check it out. Mimi was a blast and really helped me figure out what would and would not work for me.
Great clothes and accessories for both men and women. I liked knowing that what I bought came from local designers. The selection changes pretty frequently, there is almost always something new each time I stop by. -
Review from Bjorn T.
San Francisco, CA
This place rocks and so does the owner Mimi.
They have the coolest men shirts and stuff, i cant count
how many i have bought there. They carry unusual brands and
only a few pieces, so you dont have to look like all the other dudes
out there. Bought a killer bracelet there too that i get tons of compliments on.
ROCK N ROLL MIMI !!!!!!!!!! -
Review from Carolyn C.
Saint Louis, MO
I discovered Mingle randomly about two years ago and fell in love. It's perfect for picking up gifts for my girl friends and really, more often than not, for myself. The clothes are trendy, the t-shirts adorable and the jewelry unique.
Mimi herself is always wearing the cutest outfits and accessories, and I usually end up buying the ring or top she is wearing. I am also continually impressed by her memory -- she remembers what I've purchased and what I like, and without being pushy, always shows me new pieces that she knows I will adore. -
Review from Lisa S.
Frank is the man. Right when I stumbled into this lovely boutique, he engaged me in conversation and had me feeling like we were old friends! I ended up buying three pairs of earrings and three rings and even found a cute dress on the sale rack! The earrings were a tad bit pricey for me, but they were all done by local artists, and I think that rocks (plus there were FABULOUS!!! Almost bought more, but I was breaking the bank!), so I caved.
Good thing I live in LA, or I'd be in here every week. :) -
Review from Kym L.
Sunnyvale, CA
I love this shop, this boutique top my list of fave shops in the bay area as of yesterday, their selections are so unique and affordable.
This is one shop I will definitely visit religiouslyListed in: Born to Shop
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Review from Alexia P.
San Francisco, CA
I love Mingle! It's one of the only Union Street shops that has both womens and mens clothing! Thats a huge deal since I live close by and like to take my boyfriend shopping. He is really great about going to shops in general but it's nice to have at least one that has mens clothing that he likes!
It has great clothes by local designers which is so cool because you get really great stuff that you can't get at the GAP around the corner. I got this great sweatshirt dress that has a hood and really cute sleeves. Ben got this great shirt with two lions on it. I also love their accessories. They have cute headbands and great jewelry! :-) Plus the owner is really nice and helpful!
Oh! And they are dog friendly!! :-)Listed in: My Neighborhood, Born to Shop
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Review from cat z.
San Francisco, CA
I stumbled upon this store thanks to an issue of Lucky magazine.
This is where I go to refill my Cookie & The Dude ( I think?) headband collection every few months!
The owner of the store is really pleasant, very amiable, and she has a great memory!
Cool, unique clothing, this is one of the shops that epitomizes what San Francisco stores are all about.
(When one thinks of a local San Francisco store you might think: independently owned, fun, trendy places, with really nice or at least tolerable owners who care about their customers!) -
Review from Christy B.
San Francisco, CA
Mingle is one of those places that no matter what youre in the mood to buy, you can find something that you will love here...and something that will be unique. It's hard to walk into a boutique today and remember why it's different from another.
I remember when I went in for the first time, the owner, Mimi, was so welcoming and friendly, not pushy, and always willing to anwser any questions that I had on a item (HONESTLY).
I"ve also given gifts from this store and my friends have always loved knowing that they are from local designers. -
Review from Lauren H.
San Francisco, CA
I was originally headed to Jest Jewels to buy my mom a Christmas gift, but good ole yelp told me Mingle stocks jewelry by local artists as well!
I was delighted to find a dainty gold bracelet for under $100 at Mingle. I also checked out Jest and the best I could find in that price pt was tiny gold plated earrings-- nowhere near the same Wow factor.
The Japanese gals that work there were super helpful in suggesting pieces after I described what I wanted and price pt.
From now on, I'll head there for my last min jewelry gifts instead of Jest Jewels (sorry!). -
Review from Annie S.
Flushing, NY
I love this store! The service is top notch as the main girl, Kate, knows what she's doing and has a great sense of fashion. She's very helpful and has great suggestions on what looks good on any body type.
I especially love their selection of jewelry made by local artists. My friend was looking to buy jewelry and we went to several jewelry stores on Union. All the other jewelry stores had outrageous prices, which we could not afford. However, Mingle has cute and well-made jewelry made by local artists. The best part - affordable prices!! My friend was ready to spend $900 on one ring at this one store, but then we went into Mingle and she spent $600 on 5 pieces of jewelry at Mingle. I even bought a bunch myself. Loves it! -
Review from Carrie B.
San Francisco, CA
So there I was, wandering Union Street on my mission to get a "colorful shirt" for my boyfriend's birthday. I wanted something kind of stylish but not too Marina (apologies). Mingle was the first place I stopped in, and I found a huge selection of unique mens tshirts (as well as some cute stuff for me!). The woman working (owner?) told me it was all locally made, and helped find me a size in the back, talked to me a lot about the design, fit, etc. Her attentiveness sealed the fact that I'll be back.
The only thing is that they only have a 7-day return policy for store credit. Luckily the shirt fit! -
Review from Madeline N.
Cambridge, MA
Customer service is THE best here. It doesn't matter if you go in looking scrubby (as I was), you get treated with respect. Even if you don't buy! That's my idea of a good shopping experience.
Of course, I did end up circling back to buy. The clothes are adorable, original, and made by local artists. Like everything else on Union, the prices are a bit high, but it's worth it if you love it. -
Review from Janel Y.
I'll never forget the first time I came here, because it's when the girl manning the store lied to me. On the upper level there was a sale on gray skinnies and luckily I found my size. The only thing was that they were a bit long so I asked her if I hemmed them, wouldn't I lose the tapered effect at the bottom? She said no, explaining that the pants get narrower from the thigh and down so I should be good. Well, after I hemmed them, my skinnies turned into tapered jeans which just didn't look right. I ended up buying another pair of skinnies from Urban which cost me half the price I paid here!
Despite that bad experience, Mingle is a small place that's crammed with lots of cute, trendy threads. I especially like the center table that has piles and piles of graphic tees. I haven't purchased anything since the jean incident but I still keep an eye on their racks and shelves. -
Review from Carol C.
Austin, TX
After a year of walking past this store, I finally went in, and I was a bit disappointed in the styles they had to offer. While there's a ton of unique items that you won't see on the masses, I felt like some of them were not "finished" and I don't think that was on purpose. A lot of their items come from local designers, which is cool and the salespeople are super nice and helpful. I added an extra star just for that! They've got a few unique handbags and clutches.
I would go back, but my intial impression is that this store may not be my style. -
Review from Connie C.
San Jose, CA
As an artist and a fashionista, I appreciate boutiques like Mingle that support emerging fashion designers and artists. Fabulous, cute as a button owner and fellow Yelper Mimi T. rents space to designers in her shop and pieces are sold on consignment. Its prime location on Union Street & Octavia gets lots of foot traffic, and is one of the few shops that offer one of a kind pieces for both men and women, so you are almost guaranteed to be the only person to own it.
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Review from Sophrosyne Y.
Los Angeles, CA
I'm not much of a shopper. In fact, I might even say that I've come to hate (gasp!) shopping--especially for clothes. This is why, when I happen across a store that makes things simple for me, I must give props.
A few weeks ago, I attended a female friend's birthday party and had to purchase her a birthday gift. Given my aversion to shopping, and my wife's impeccable taste, my wife typically assumes responsibility for such matters. Unfortunately, my wife was out of town that weekend and I was (dangerously) left to my own devices to find an adequate birthday gift. I had absolutely no clue as to what to get. Thankfully, my wife had shopped at Mingle previously. Before she left, she told me to "go to Mingle and ask Mimi--she'll pick out something nice." So, like any good husband, I heeded my wife's advice. Sure enough, I went to Mingle, found Mimi, explained my predicament, and in a flash she selected two or three necklaces and two or three pairs of earrings as potential gifts. I had no way of knowing which of these options would be the "right" gift, so, through a series of well-tailored and well-crafted questions about my friend, Mimi and I honed in on the "right" gift--a necklace. I was in and out in about 10 minutes. Thanks, Mimi. (By the way, my friend loved the necklace.)
