Ariel H.
Yelp
This store first caught my eye a month or two ago, which seems to be around when it opened. It got my attention because I'd never seen anything of its like in Jackson Heights before. The owner has expanded from a nearby location in Astoria and the store itself is your standard yuppie/yuccie/hipster-catering establishment, which seems a little out of place among the vibe of immigrant families and more low-key mom-and-pop's everywhere in this neighborhood. Although I do think the store is lovely and wish it success, it is something of a bittersweet prescient of what may become of beautiful, and vibrant Jackson Heights as rents in Astoria continue to rise and that neighborhood begins to spill eastward. But that is a discussion for another day. Lockwood is definitely among friends on 37th, the more "upscale" of JH's shopping streets, near places like Arunee Thai, Lemon Farm grocery, and of course Starbucks.
Lockwood's offerings include home decor, candles, greeting cards and gift wrap, children's toys, a few kitchen items and books, jewelry, and other accessories. I even saw some coffee in there today. Many items have a neighborhood focus, such as mugs, necklaces, or fitted caps emblazoned with "Queens" and "Jackson Heights"--great for those of us who are as crazy proud of the 'hood as I am. I'm especially a fan of their wide selection of quality soy candles of various different brands. They carry Paddywax, Illume and at least 4 or 5 other artisinal candle brands--although not yet my favorite of all time, Votivo, which I have half a mind to ask the owner if she'll buy for me! ;)
The interior of the store is clean, trendy, and appealingly merchandised. Prices here are a little high for the area, but are completely in line with what other retailers will charge for similar products. Some cheery hipster music is usually playing, and the staff here has been friendly and helpful each time I've visited. They have a free points rewards program you can join if you think you're likely to become a regular shopper.
Aside from Inner Peace, Jackson Heights really didn't have a gift shop like this. So overall I think Lockwood is a welcome addition, arriving just in time for the holiday season. It is definitely worth a look if you live in the area and want to buy a quality gift without schlepping all the way to Manhattan.