Maggie C.
Yelp
Even though I live across the country, I stop by Otherwild every time that I visit in Los Angeles. I make a special trip to Otherwild for the same reason that I visit Bless and Colette in Paris, Andreas Murkudis and Manufactum in Berlin, or Aedes des Venustas and Creatures of Comfort in New York. I enjoy stores that offer you an experience of a particular city through a selection of specialty goods that is both particular and progressive.
Whether at home or during travel, I like visiting places where I know that I am in the company of thoughtful specialists that have created a special environment. The ideal store should be comparable to the library that covers every topic that might interest you. The shopkeeper, like a great librarian, is never intrusive but always knowledgeable.
The subtlety of Otherwild's light-filled space imparts a sense of calm without even trying. The tasteful displays are arranged on open tables and shelves, presenting a welcome reprieve from over designed vitrines stuffed with lesser goods in dull boutiques that could be in any city, anywhere.
Otherwild offers a distinct array of home goods, jewelry, publication, clothing, accessories, gifts, etc. Products range from local to national, and you always know that within such a thoughtfully considered amalgam, any gift you find here is going to be treasured. Practically speaking, the quality for the price can't be beat. In one trip, I cover birthdays and holidays for ten people. It's that good.
The great disadvantage of not living closer is not being able to attend their inspiring workshops. I can't think of any other store that fosters a platform for creativity and curiosity. How nice it is to shop in a space that you also know supports artisans working in so many spheres - artists, nutritionists, ceramicists, weavers, etc. That the people visiting the store have the option to buy the products or learn more about them. What's better than that!?
The emphasis here is not only on quality of goods but quality of experience.