813 W. 50th St., Mpls., 612-827-3071, patinastores.com
Shopping local isn’t just about doing good anymore—not when artisans are turning out such flat-out irresistible goods. Who better to put them under one roof then Patina, the local boutique chain beloved for its chic tchotchkes and meticulously merchandised stores? When owners Rick Haase and Christine Ward increasingly heard from customers that they wanted to support more Minnesota businesses, the couple hatched Shoppe Local. The cozy new south Minneapolis shop pays homage to some 200 local labels. There are plenty of the usual suspects—Caldrea, Illume, Russell + Hazel—but most items are by under-the-radar artisans who previously sold strictly at craft fairs and online. The well-edited assortment includes accessibly priced art, books and music, handmade baby gifts, impeccably crafted jewelry and handbags, and truly wearable fashion. A selection of fresh produce and floral lends a homey feel to the shop. And that is definitely a good thing.
