A Most Magnificent Mother's Day in Downtown Mesa

Because she’s your Mom and you want the very best for her on Mother’s Day (and frankly, every day), here are just a few gift recommendations from the uniquely local shops in Downtown Mesa.

Just Because Gift Shop

Michelle Skaarup owns Dickson’s Jewelers, but then she saw the need for something completely different. “Originally, I knew Downtown Mesa needed a souvenir shop,” she says. “But now, this store has exploded into a wonderful Downtown Mesa gift shop. I hand pick every item we sell here.” Wander down the little alleyway to Just Because Gift Shop, step into the cozy little space and be prepared to be overwhelmed – in a good way. Besides great gifts for Moms, the store showcases kitchen decor and fun accessories like charcuterie boards, hilarious greeting cards, and local candles (“Sunset Scents” made in Mesa). You’ll find mugs, and towels, and aprons, oh my. Take your time perusing the cute wall art signs of all wording and phrases - funny, inspirational and “rhymes with witchy.” Don’t forget gifts for the pet lover, the wine lover, the gnome lover – and for Grandma! (Just Because Gift Shop, 54 W Main, #2)

Nash Vintage Collective

With more than 40 brands and vendors laid out in a delightfully meandering way, there are plenty of gift ideas no matter where you turn in Nash Vintage Collective. With a sweep of her arm, owner Heather Nash can recommend nearly everything you can see for Moms and/or Mom-adjacent humans: vintage dresses, silk pajamas and kimonos. Vintage jewelry for every taste. Eco-friendly bath self-care soaps, indulgent bath bombs and unique home decor. Linger over the crystal bar and find the perfect stone for good energy or simply for beauty. NVC showcases vintage art as well as whimsical furniture and art by her husband, Martin Nash. “I love vintage because everything tells a story,” Heather says. “And I love to show my customers how to incorporate art and vintage into their lives.” (Nash Vintage Collective, 58 W Main)

Meat Market Vintage Goods

If your Mom is a rock-n-roll Mom, here’s the place. Micah Acedo, one of three young owners of Meat Market Vintage Goods couldn’t show off the selection of rock ‘n’ roll t-shirts fast enough. “If your Mom went to the concert, she needs the shirt,” he says, nodding knowingly. Meat Market has a vast selection: Paul McCartney to Garth Brooks, Back Street Boys to Journey, Springsteen, Van Halen, Diamond – and that’s just the first rack. Along with a concert tee, Mom will need some vintage Levis or a pair of cutoff short shorts, just like she used to wear - before you knew her. It’s not easy to build a store stocked with 70’s and 80’s apparel when you’re in your very early 20’s – why does this trio of young owners do it? “To make connections with people and make them feel confident in what they’re wearing,” says Micah. “As well as paying homage to their youth.” (Meat Market Vintage Goods, 158 W Main)

Matage Custom Framing

Frame a favorite photo? Sure, that makes for a great gift for Mom. But how about her old set of cookie cutters or recipe cards? Her well-worn kitchen utensils? A single earring or favorite scarf? Those are the challenges Rob Brinton and his staff at Matage Custom Framing relish. “Shadow boxes with personal items – artifacts and mementos - tell a story, especially when used by a loved one,” Rob says. Currently, he’s working on a project for a client who brought in his mother’s collection of sewing scissors. “We love contributing even a small part to the story of any family in such a unique way.” (Matage Custom Framing, 166 W Main, #101)

The Boutique

Bopping into The Boutique, you’ll find yourself surrounded by trendsetting styles and brands to dress Mom from head to toe – and owner Lacey Barta and her staff are standing by to show you exactly how. Start with vintage-inspired makeup, of course. Next, tuck in a flowery boho top into a pair of perfect-fitting pants or shorts, slip on a concho belt, snag a sexy pair of sunglasses, slide into a pair of Bed|Stü boots paired with a Bed|Stü bag, perch a funky hat on top and away Mom goes – outfitted for the next fashion adventure! You say your Mom isn’t a “walk the runway” type? Not to worry – The Boutique is also the go-to for other perfect gifts for Mom! Think hair accessories, from bows and clips, headbands to ties and especially Boho Bandeaus. “Denim on denim is trending,” says Lacey. “Denim, florals, lace, linens, fringe, dresses and skirts, tops.” For a bit of an out-of-the-ordinary discovery, fill a Happy Bag with cocktail mixers, some naughty glasses and throw in a Spongelle exfoliator flower for good measure, because: Mom. Lacey, the newest Mom on Main (twins!), is excited for the holiday. “With two babies and running a successful store, I’m multitasking more than ever,” she says. “Thanks to the love and support from our awesome employees, customers and the Downtown Mesa community, I’ve learned it really does take a village.” (By the way, The Boutique as a full line of baby clothing for other new Moms!) (The Boutique, 166 W Main)

Retail therapy with (or for) Mom can make one hungry (and thirsty). Treat yourselves to a sweet snack or meal at one of nearly 60 eateries in Downtown Mesa. You’ll find breweries, coffee bars, and the new Rebel Wine Lounge, open just in time to toast Mom (and other wine lovers). Hey, we’re here to please and we’re not traditionalists – Dad’s invited, too!

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BY KATE SCHWAB, DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT | DOWNTOWN MESA ASSOCIATION

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