Treasure Hunt: Grand in Union Square
The Friday Patch Passport shows you where you can find trinkets in your town. Get out and explore the unique local shops and all they have to offer.
When Grand owners Wendy Friedman and John O'Toole opened the boutique in January 2008, they sold "uber-hip and expensive" home decor, clothing and accessories. But six months later, they revamped the store to cater to customers who desired low-priced, locally-made, fashionable gifts.
Now the store and its website sell t-shirts printed with designs by Somerville artists, wallets and tote bags embellished with bicycles, sturdy plastic plates adored with trees and knots and a medley of other wares.
Prices vary but lean toward the inexpensive. A porcelain mug decorated with drawings of the Earth costs $9, a t-shirt runs about $22 and a lamp can cost more than $100.
The store hosts events to draw customers and liven up Union Square, said O'Toole, who lives in the neighborhood.
"Since we're not near the T," he said, "we have to give people who don't live nearby a reason to come here."
In mid-August, the owners plan to invite a local brewer to cater an in-store party, which will include a sale.
Hours: Tue - Fri, 12pm - 7pm; Sat, 11am - 7pm; Sun, 12pm - 5pm; Mon, closed
Handicap Accessible: No
Founding Date: Jan 01 2008
Payments accepted: Cash, Debit Card, MasterCard, Visa
Products: Home furnishings, gifts, clothes
Parking: On-street: metered
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