Meet Our Newest Neighborhood Gift Boutique: Chris + Mary

We are so excited to share a hot new artisan gift shop here on the Westside that is a must see. Chris + Mary opened its doors last month and is all about providing goods from local artists and small businesses around the community. Located on Pico Blvd. in Santa Monica right across from Virginia Avenue Park and is special the minute you walk in. One of our team members, Stephanie (as you can see above) is expecting a little girl any day now and at her baby shower earlier this month received some adorable baby gifts from Chris + Mary. We recently got the chance to speak with the owners Chris + Mary themselves (seen below) and hear the details of how this adorable boutique came to life!

The Noel Team: What is Chris + Mary?

Chris + Mary: When you come into our neighborhood shop, you'll find unique baby gifts, home goods, art, gifts for men and women, ceramics, greeting cards, jewelry, small furniture and a bit of vintage sprinkled in. Everything is hand-picked and has a story. Our friendly 13 year-old store puppy Rosco will likely be snoozing on his rug, but will always accept a belly rub. We can't wait to meet you!

The Noel Team: How did you end up opening this boutique?

Chris + Mary: We started planning this venture around November of 2015. Chris owned a vintage store in conjunction with a drop-in center for youth with developmental disabilities. Mary was running a mobile wellness business offering private yoga and massage therapy. We shared a love of connecting with people in our community and a desire to support ethically sound/sustainable local and handmade goods. We wanted to create a space together in our neighborhood that was inviting, uplifting and supported local artisans and small companies donating back to charity. When a spot became available across the street from our favorite neighborhood park, we jumped on it!

The Noel Team: How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?

Chris + Mary: Welcoming, curated, soulful.

The Noel Team: What do you hope for people to leave your store feeling or thinking?

Chris + Mary: We'd love for people to leave our space feeling inspired by the creativity and talents of others, excited about supporting local artists and small businesses, relieved having found a "go-to" unique gift shop, satisfied from the goods they've chosen, and with a closer connection to their neighborhood, community and world.

The Noel Team: What are your favorite pieces in the store currently?

Chris + Mary: Now that our doors are open, our main focus is gift boxes. Soon our customers and local businesses will be able to create custom gift boxes in our shop and online. We will also offer themed boxes such as New Home, Birthday, Pet, Love/Anniversary, Congrats, New Parent/Baby, Holiday, etc. Shipping and local delivery will be an option as well!

Chris + Mary are located at 2204 1/2 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405 and are open Tuesday through Friday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Chris + Mary will be available online coming in April but until then make sure to follow them on social media.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopchrisandmary

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopchrisandmary/

Thanks to the owners Chris + Mary for letting us pick their brains and learn more about this store! Happy Shopping!