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Naka
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11 am - 7 pm
Sat 11 am - 6 pm
Sun 12 pm - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Ryan B. said: "Thank god I found the Diamond Vault of Troy. If it was not for Randy and Tim, Erika would have ended up with another run of the mill setting and mediocre overpriced Diamond from a Wal-Mart style Jeweler. If you do not like to be sold,…" read more »
41 reviews for Naka
Review Highlights
"From t-shirts to jewelry; housewares, and baby-wares."
(in 10 reviews)
"Super cute handmade red wallet."
(in 4 reviews)
"Perfect for finding memorable little gifts."
(in 12 reviews)
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41 reviews in English
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Review from Julie S.
Farmington, MI
2/5/2012
This place is great for gifts! It was my one stop shop for x-mas. My brother received the Hunter S. Thompson t-shirt and my friends were gifted unique one of a kind jewelry. Prices were spot on for the worth of the products.
The place was very personable and I enjoyed some light conversation with other customers and the guy behind the counter. Great way to spend a carefree Sunday morning.
I will be back in the future! -
Review from Heather J.
Ferndale, MI
I lament that my pay cheque won't stretch far enough to wrap up Naka and leave a little bow on top. I have too little cash for all the treasures I covet, for myself and for my loved ones. Unfortunately for me, Naka is one of those rare boutiques which stocks many local, one of a kind, artistic items bursting with creativity and personality. The sparklies and shinies beg me to take them home with glistening pendants and shimmering gems. How can I choose just one!?
Ferndale, you are a lucky, lucky community to have Naka at your heart. The selection is a changing smorgasbord highlighting the immense wealth of inspiring artisans and imaginative designers in the area. The staff must have a network second to none, save perhaps the DIA, in coming up with the unique pieces they find. I can't walk by twice without stopping in, finding something brand new or that I overlooked before. And I'm no jewelry fiend either, with entire arboretums to hang bracelets, rings, and many things off of. (I wish.) Elizabeth Taylor would have waltzed through in delight if she had the opportunity.
Best of all, it's so wholly local and Michigan-friendly. I don't like kitschy stores that push tourist tack and knick-knacks off on consumers. Naka doesn't do that. They showcase artists and fine artisans, give great touches for the Mitten-based designs, and keep it clean, functional, and eminently beautiful. I've received a lot of compliments for the pieces I purchased; I know my family's going to be thrilled to have their little piece of the neighbourhood back home. I like knowing I'm supporting the local economy and shopping local.
There are other gift items, just as carefully selected. I like the paper goods, and the changing, updated supply guarantees I won't be stuck with the same selection next season or whenever a birthday/wedding/anniversary/holiday rolls around.
The whole fastidious shop never feels crowded, and the atmosphere never radiates exclusiveness and unfriendliness as some places do. It's a laid back, friendly, attentive place where you can probably find that perfect gift.
I love Naka, and I love it being in Ferndale. Yay! -
Review from Stephanie H.
Ferndale, MI
11/30/2011
This place is hands down one of the best boutiques in Ferndale. They always have different eclectic gifts for women, men and even children. I love the shop watch dog who is both kind and calm and sits in the shop window usually in the summertime. The owners are both kind and accommodating. The jewelry is unique and one of a kind. The purses are cute and fun. The t-shirts are great and are good for showing some pride in Ferndale and Detroit. The baby clothes are cute and are not what you find at your local babys r us.
My 5 year old daughter ever enjoys this store, because of the dog and the kindness they always show her. It is easy in stores like this, that have both delicate and one of a kind items to feel apprehensive and uncomfortable with children in the store. At Naka quite the opposite is true. They are always kind to my daughter and generally seem at ease.I really enjoy shopping her and if you are going to go local go NAKA! -
Review from Joe B.
2/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
I stopped in on a recommendation for a gift and was pleasantly surprised to find not only gifts for women but also some hip baby onesies for my friends that breed and a few items that would be a cool gift for a fella. The staff is really friendly, the store is sharp and the merch is inspiring with a MichiFerndale twist. Cool stuff in here kids. Worth a look see for sure. They've got a cool dog just chillin too. Hi dog. Prices are affordable if not moderate and the selection is pretty close to one of a kind I would guess.
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Review from Niki R.
Midtown, Detroit, MI
12/4/2011
If and when I need to find a gift for one of my friends I drop in here. From t-shirts to jewelry; housewares, and baby-wares. This is my one stop shop. I often pick a present, and buy wrapping (because the selection is just as cute as the merchandise).
Love this place. Just wish they were open till 7 on Saturdays. -
Review from Christina G.
Ferndale, MI
9/10/2011
If I was a retail indie boutique, I would be Naka. This place oozes with great finds- from rare detroit tees to unique handmade (and michigan made!) jewlery, to baby stuff. And everything is TRES MIGNON!
The staff is super friendly and they are always playing great indie tunes. THE BEST place in ferndale to find a gift for someone, or yourself! -
Review from Tara Z.
8/5/2011
Is it weird that the first thing I thought when I walked in was that this was the best-smelling store I'd ever visited? Because it is. And this store is filled with gorgeous things printed with all the indie handicraft top hits: bicycles, owls, ironic mustaches, cassette tapes. You're bound to find something lovely.
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Review from Julia A.
Detroit, MI
5/20/2011
Few weeks ago it was my friend's birthday, I was so confused and thought a lot what can I buy for her?
I asked other friends of mine and they guided me to Naka, I went to see it It's going to be the place where i can find the best wonderful gift for my dear friend.
Then the confusion started again, the collection was amazing, but they helped me to pick the right gift and was happy to get it finally, and it was a massive Birthday party, Thanks Naka. -
Review from Jacquie T.
Ferndale, MI
9/30/2010
I love walking into Naka to see what new things they've gotten in that month. Anytime I've purchased a piece of jewelry from the store, I have ALWAYS gotten compliments. You can find everything from unique t-shirts and funky socks, to expertly crafted necklaces, earrings and handbags.
Most things are reasonably priced, so it's a great store for gift buying. -
Review from Ann G.
Ferndale, MI
9/6/2011
Best place to buy a gift! Unique local items- jewelry, clothing and baby things. My favorite store in Ferndale by far.
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Review from Melissa B.
Ferndale, MI
1/5/2011
I love Naka!
This is my go to place for buying a great and unique gift, though every time I buy someone else something I end up with something for myself (oops!). The staff here are wonderful and the puppers who hangs out here is a total doll. Such a wonderful store. -
Review from mariah c.
Ann Arbor, MI
4/10/2009
Did you miss the Shadow Art Fair or the Detroit Urban Craft Fair? Are you wondering where you can get some hand (but quality) made goods for yourself or a friend? You'll go wild at Naka. It's really, really hard not to.
I bought some presents and cards for friends, but I couldn't resist, and bought one of those super-soft Pokketto t-shirts Cecilia mentions for myself. They'll let you try on the shirts in the sun-ily painted bathroom, too!
They have a truly beautiful selection of jewelry. I often think of myself as "not a jewelry kinda gal," but the pieces here immediately change my mind because they are exactly what I find most jewelry is not - simple, elegant, and thoughtfully designed/crafted.
Gorgeous jewelry, tempting paper goods, Queen Bee bags and wallets (a place always gets extra points from me for carrying the lovely indestructible QB line), and great t-shirts... including Sarah Utter's inspiring "Reading is Sexy" shirts. I used to have a shirt like that I had gotten from http://buyolympia.com, but it shrank or I grew (?), so I have my eye on one from Naka (they'll let you try ti on, even).
A pal who just had a little bayba was lamenting the lack of places to go to buy cute and original baby gear. Naka has a whole little well-stocked section. I obviously need to go back and buy some more gifts for the little one! -
Review from Tim H.
Hamtramck, MI
10/14/2009
Hi everybody, my name is Tim, and I am a t-shirtaholic. It has been far too long since I last bought a t-shirt from Naka...
Actually, I bought a fan-freaking-tastic Hunter S. Thompson t-shirt at Naka's booth at the Ferndale DIY show last month and I am already itching to see what's new at their shop. A lot of guys seem to avoid this clean and cute boutique because of the description I just gave and I am cool with that. Just keep walking past guys and leave more of the t-shirt selection for me! Bwahaha! (I know I have a problem and admitting it is the first step to recovery.)
The owner and her staff are all really friendly and accommodating... and the monkey on my back smiles with joy at that. -
Review from Jean P.
8/30/2009
Yesterday was my first visit to Naka, but won't be my last! What a wonderful little store - there wasn't a single thing in there that I didn't want to take home! Everything is so unique and cool, and very reasonably priced considering the quality and creativity that goes into each item. I walked away with a shirt for myself and one for my husband, but I want to go back and buy more more more!
It is the PERFECT place to shop for gifts. My friend and I were just discussing how it seems that if you have to buy a gift for a female you don't know very well, everyone seems to buy candles or bath gels, and consequently every woman I know has closets full of the stuff. Why not get something more unique and interesting? Naka seems to have something for every price range, from super cheap journals & sketchbooks, handmade coin purses, right on up to absolutely gorgeous jewelry for someone you really want to impress (for instance, ME!). They also have really cool baby gifts, very sassy wrapping paper & gift bags, and nifty cards.
The proprietor seemed really really nice, very proud of her store (rightfully so), and genuinely interested in helping you find just the right item. I will definitely be dropping a few zillion dollars at Naka this Christmas! -
Review from Katie W.
Detroit, MI
4/11/2009
oh.my.gosh. Super cute boutique.
I came in hopes of finding a birthday gift for a beloved friend. From the wallets to the candles, jewelry, scarves, baby necessities, tee shirts- all very unique and cute. I had to have this adorable bag...I could picture her stuffing a beach towel, some flip flops and sunscreen in it and hitting the beach! It was coming down from the display and onto my forearm in 5.2 seconds....I wasn't going to lose this to any of the other shoppers in the store. I was also very drawn to the baby gear- the vintage-chic looking diaper bags and baby sets of burp cloths/cuddle blankets/bibs were all very adorable, but since my expecting friend doesn't know the sex yet, I opted to wait.
I still walked out with the bag, which I'd gladly keep for myself should she not like it... heehee, some adorable wrapping paper and a card. I'll be back Naka Shop and maybe I'll bring some treats for the friendly pooch! -
Review from Sarah G.
5/6/2009
Is it possible that you can be in love with a store? If so...I am in LOVE with Naka....shhhhhhh....don't tell my husband!!
I spent a pretty penny in here today and there were about 10 other things that I wanted to add to my shopping cart. The initial intention of my visit was to find a present for my friend...and in turn I ended up shocking up on goods for myself! Don't worry, my friend still got a gift!
So lets see....what did Sarah buy today???
*Super cute Detroit onesie for my super cute baby
*Super cute handmade red wallet
*Super fabulous smelling candle
*Super cute bird onesie for my friend (see .... I told you I got her something!!)
Other things I was very tempted to buy:
*Super cute T-shirt(s) for myself
*Super cute jewelry
*Super cute baby shoes
*Super cute purse
As you can see from my list...everything is SUPER CUTE. If you are ever stuck and can't find a gift to buy someone....I suggest you stop in here and you will find something immediately.
If you do stop in...tell the store I say hi...I mean, after all, we are having a love affair. *wink* -
Review from Ryan L.
1/6/2010
I'm glad that there are already 20 reviews for Naka because everyone should know about it. Naka is an adorable boutique in Downtown Fabulous Ferndale. It has a lot of locally made and interesting hand-made items.
I bought gifts for Christmas here. If you want one-of-a-kind items, this is the place to get them. It's also great if you want hand made items. They also have a lot of locally themed, Detroit-area items. In addition, Naka has a lot of jewelry.
If you haven't been here yet, then I suggest you go and go often. The selection is always changing and you're going to want everything inside. -
Review from Lish D.
Plymouth, MI
1/28/2010
Naka is THE place for shopping in Ferndale! From DIY goods to hilarious T-shirts, Naka has everything you might need and keep you away from the mall for good.
The selection at Naka changes frequently. Guarantee that what you see one week might not be there the next. The store frequently has items on sale, so keep your eyes peeled for a good deal!
Naka offers gifts at a variety of prices. There really is something for every budget. I never feel like I've spent too much on something. Now when I go on a bit of a shopping spree, that's a different story...
Beyond the shopping, Naka is dedicated to Ferndale and the surrounding community. It's great to know a store you love also loves your community right back! -
Review from M P.
Brooklyn, NY
8/17/2010 1 Check-in Here
I noted on a morning after working the night that this store is in fact a nice collection of unique, funky appearing items for all your desires to appear different and special. The jewelry in particular was most impressive to my recollection although I was probably half asleep as I slowly wandered around looking at the merchandise. The girl behind the counter was kind of wary of me which I didn't really appreciate but perhaps I did look like I felt, all swamp monster-like.
I also noticed that several of the bags were via Portland OR which set the vibe of my experience there. I felt the granola loving, tie-dye flavors of Portland and was sort of reminiscent of a little store in the Village I'd visited while I was in NYC. I also enjoyed the doggie mascot. -
Review from Larissa H.
Ferndale, MI
4/28/2009
I absolutely adore this shop!!! It's like Etsy but in real life where you can touch and hold all the beautiful items/creations.
Awesome for gifts for just about anyone. And, of course, everytime I walk in to buy a gift for someone else, I always walk out with a thing or two for me, too.
The resident pooch is super sweet and always makes me smile! That doesn't hurt either! :) -
Review from Jessica C.
Royal Oak, MI
4/14/2010
Naka is like heaven for cool people. Its like if etsy had a little baby store. Its like if you want something super cute or something super unique or a super rad gift, this is where you would go.
And theres sometimes that dog. That dog is super cute too. -
Review from Megan M.
Denver, CO
7/7/2009
I love these kinds of gift shops. And I'm pretty good at mostly just browsing in them. But not at Naka- I think I've bought something every time I've entered this store!
It's pretty small, but I really love all of their things. In one shopping trip I think I found Christmas presents for my brother, his girlfriend, and a "day-twa" shirt for me too. -
Review from kristen f.
Detroit, MI
4/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
This store is the best place to buy a gift. When buying for female compadres, I know that whenever I walk into Naka that I will find what I'm looking for - even if I don't know what that is. They have an amazing selection of jewelry from local artisans that revolves constantly. I don't think I've ever walked into Naka and seen the same jewelry twice.
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Review from Jenn V.
Wyandotte, MI
10/7/2009
Adorable, funky store!
They have really interesting pieces, and you can tell the owner takes her time in picking what to carry in the store. Speaking of, the owner is SUPER friendly. I popped in one day when I was walking by, and although I just wanted to check it out the owner didn't give me an attitude for just browsing. Most places will ignore you once they realize you aren't purchasing anything, but when I told her I was just looking she was friendly and we started talking about the area and such. I like that kind of attitude-- and I remember that kind of stuff when it comes time to return and spend my money someplace.
She carries jewelry, hand bags, t-shirts, and other random accessories. All of them funky and unique, and many of them from local people, which I think is awesome.
I fear I will spend a lot of money here at Christmas time, like another reviewer said. Unique gifts that you probably won't find anywhere else. And the prices are reasonable considering the quality and the fact that it is a locally owned small business. Support it! -
Review from Lisa W.
Flint, MI
7/12/2008 1 photo
Naka has a really great selection of simple, cute items -- it's the kind of place you'd want to hit first if you want to buy a wallet with a wee little bird on it, for instance.
I got a journal here for my "god" daughter because I love to write and I thought I'd encourage her to hit the ink as well. It doesn't hurt to have a colorful journal to start with. She loved it. I feel like pre-teen girls and those just off to high school will really covet these things. -
Review from Heidi M.
12/12/2010
I love love love this store. It is so cute and has a great selection that is unique and creative. This is the perfect place to go shopping for a gift for a girlfriend. I'm super glad to have a place like this in my neighborhood.
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Review from Rhonda L.
Southfield, MI
1/14/2011
I love this place. If you need a different gift, bling for a baby or an outrageous t-shirt ( reading is sexy) this is the place.
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Review from starli h.
Chicago, IL
1/6/2010 ROTD 1/21/2010
i'll admit it, i make decisions on appearances. yes, sometimes i buy objects based on packaging. hey, i have to categorize constant information overload somehow.
so, when strolling past naka i figured it was just a girly shop. i assumed it would probably have things i'd like. and sure, maybe good gifts. i mentally filed it in "check out when desperate for a gift or if i ever have free time and actually check out things near my house."
well, sadly the latter occurred when i wanted to get my friend something that was unique, with the requirement of being small and shippable.
still making silly assumptions, when i entered i immediately filed it in the "gifty, trendy shop thing" that is really out of control in chicago. well, i'm pretty stupid sometimes. (sometimes!)
naka is awesome!!! there are some seriously cool things in the store. a lot of handmade things, a lot of really cool things that you won't find many other places. i got the feeling that every single item is carefully handpicked. i had so much fun trying to figure out what to get.
i ended up getting a really cool handmade silver necklace... when i sent it out i got several deeee-lighted e-mails about the awesome-ness of the necklace, which is better than what i hoped for! i wanted that stinking thing for myself!!
i also found a really nice wood and silver money clip for the boy, he thought it was vintage and loved it. i wanted the stinking thing for myself.
great jewelry counter, cute baby things in the back, teapots, calendars and papers and other generally awesome things that you need to have.
naka, i am sorry for my silly assumptions. i love you. -
Review from Anna K.
Brooklyn, NY
9/23/2010
This place is freakin' great. I make it down to Ferndale just for Naka any time i need a Detroit present for a friend or family. Not bad for the price, and really innovative, neat stuff that makes you love your city!!
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Review from Kristin G.
Royal Oak, MI
12/21/2009
Really unique gifts abound! They have an assortment of "Detroit" and "Mitten" goods, gorgeous jewelry, great little gift items like notebooks, Tshirts and even socks. Perfect for finding memorable little gifts.
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Review from Cate W.
Ferndale, MI
9/19/2010
Hooray for cute boutiques! Boutiques that aren't too cool for school, but still offer jewelry, accessories, cards, etc. at a variety of price points! Naka has enough of a range in styles that I could steer from the screamingly hipster apparel to less predictable pieces. The girls behind the counter are very nice and helpful, and the cards are especially high quality. Cute baby stuff, too.
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Review from Valerie G.
Ferndale, MI
12/1/2009
Naka- you are so cute.
I love stopping into this store- although it is a bit bad for my pocketbook! Sometimes I can make myself walk away after only browsing, but usually I have to buy something. The owner and her dog are so friendly, it is fun to stop in just to say hi.
Naka is a fabulous little independent boutique carrying all sorts of cool items for me, for my husband, for my house, for my friends, for my baby- for everybody. :)
I'll start with things my husband loves- the t-shirts and belt buckles. He is in love with this Hunter S. Thompson shirt he saw there - but they didn't have it in his size the day we went. Sad- I will have to check back.
My baby - he doesn't really know enough to love anything, so I tell him what to love. He loves the super adorable onesies that are hiding in the back of the store- He also loves the bib/blanket/burp cloth set that he has from there with the retro cowboy design on it. So awesome. The big is reversible. Love it.
Me- What do I love? All of it. I love the aviary laptop bag I just got from there. I have the cutest laptop bag at work. The guys think I'm weird, but what do they know. I love the purses and wallets- I usually want to buy them all. I love those hairpins that were so adorable that I just had to buy them even though I don't wear hairpins. I love all the pretty jewelry and all the paper products. Oh Naka- You are super. Thank you for being so close to my house. -
Review from Sara A.
Detroit, MI
7/29/2008 5 photos
Gift giving is an art and if you're looking for a little inspiration, let fashionable Ferndale's Naka be your muse. Dubbed an indie boutique, Naka (meaning beautiful in Shona), is located on 9 mile and offers DIY, indie and just plain fabulous goods for men, women, baby, and home.
Opening in September 2005, Naka has clearly made a name for itself by being recognized by the local news station as one of the best boutiques in the Metro area and adored by a devoted base of customers. With the variety of unique wallets, wall art, bags, and paper goods it's simple to see why once you set foot into the exceptionally unmatchable boutique you'll be hooked.
Naka's inviting quirkiness can easily be seen and felt as soon as you walk through the door (while often being greeted by Ava, owner Kelli Pettibone's adorable ebony pup). Naka's jewelry section is a lush forest of idiosyncratic and cute necklaces, earrings and rings by such up and coming companies like Small Things out of Portland. The prices are reasonable for such wearable art and the selection isn't monumental, but still impressive due to the wondrous individuality of the pieces, mainly silver
In addition, this swanky store carries bags and wallets made by the always fabulous Queen Bee Creations, pins, and a small, but crafty amount of Detroit souvenirs by Handmade Detroit.
For baby, Naka carries one of a kind onesies that any expectant mother with a sense of style and humor would adore. In addition, the boutique has hip diaper bags that would make any ripe mom feeling stylish and cool. For the guy who has everything Naka has that something: wallets, t-shirts, and silkscreen ties all embellish the store's minute but magical men's section.
The store also offers paper goods including notebooks, greeting cards by such companies as Phantom Limb, gift wrap and bags. If your loved one deserves more than a conveyor belt gift, come to Naka to purchase that perfect, exclusive little piece of wonderful
Hours: Monday-Friday from 11-7 Sat 11-6 -
Review from Ashley M.
Ferndale, MI
8/17/2009 2 Check-ins Here
Naka is my absolute favorite store in Ferndale. Everything in this store is adorable. After going in there for my first time a month ago , I've been back every week, sometimes two or three times a week. It's a great place to go for gifts, they have lots of one of a kind jewelry and bags. If your in the Ferndale area , definitly check it out!
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Review from D'Anne W.
Ferndale, MI
5/21/2009
It's true that there's lots of great stuff here, but the real reason I give Naka five stars is that Kelly, the owner, is so, so nice as is Ava, her dog. If you're looking for something unique and hip but still pretty you'll probably find it at Naka. Lots of Etsy-esque things there. Cool Detroit specific art items, too. For Mother's Day my wife bought me a Boblo Island t-shirt and a matching onsie for our soon to be born baby. I am really glad that this store exists in Ferndale and I support it as much as I can. It's important to support indie businesses. Do it for Ava!
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Review from Emily B.
Ferndale, MI
4/17/2009
This is the best boutique in Ferndale. Everything about it is adorable. Check out the locally-made jewelry and awesome candles. I buy EVERY birthday gift here. I love the tobacco-leaf scented candles. One more reason that I'm loving downtown Ferndale! The owner and all employees are sweet and helpful, and there's this super-cute dog that hangs out there as well. I hope the owner is doing well even in the economic hurricane because I'd be horribly sad if Naka was gone.
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Review from Cecilia P.
Detroit, MI
9/22/2006
Naka has great t-shirts by Pokketto-soft and a little longer than the average. Bought my "Reading is Sexy" t-shirt here. Great jewelry, stationery, purses. A small, but well-edited store.
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Review from A. M.
Portland, OR
2/15/2010
Great store to find something for the person who's hard to shop for.
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Review from Scott M.
Ferndale, MI
7/29/2009
This is a great little store! Anytime I need a cute, unique gift I always think of Naka and of course stop by when I can. The folks there are really sweet too. This store is a great asset to downtown Ferndale!
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Review from Meg B.
Southfield, MI
4/4/2009
Incredible store. I have no idea why it would rate any less than five stars. The place is like Etsy, only better since you can touch and feel and smell all the wonderful things they have. Every time I go there is no way I'm walking out empty handed. Everything is very reasonably priced, not like some other boutiques I've been in. My favorite place for gifts, hands down.
