The growing number of Mike’s Bikes stores in the Bay Area is a testament to the power of their mission statement — to help as many people as they can find a love of bikes. Their team of passionate cyclists can help you find any brand, helmet, or shoe you could possibly need.
A hub for bibliophiles across Marin, Book Passage does a lot more than your average Barnes & Noble. Its author events are known far and wide for being something you simply can’t miss. If you show up at an event, you could be in for a writing lesson, a fascinating lecture on a topic that’s far more profound than you would have imagined, or a classic in-conversation where an author (or two or three) chats about their book with fans. For those who don’t like big bookstores but still want to feel part of something big, you can’t go wrong with Book Passage.
Lea will create anything wedding, from a sparkling white wedding gown, to a pastel mother-of-the-bride pantsuit, to a bridesmaid’s dress that smashes the bad stereotypes of bridesmaid dresses. Enter the warm and welcoming store to let Lea guide you through the process. Fall in love with something on the racks? She’ll tailor it to perfection for you. Prefer something custom? Say no more, Lea has you covered. With a wide range of prices, she’s also a great choice for the bride on a budget.
They deliver right to your doorstep, and with their loyalty rewards program and frequent specials offers, it’s a great price point for those on a budget. Custom-curated experiences and easy savings — what’s not to love?
For over 20 years now, Stella’s has been offering an inventory of ever-changing styles, brands, and designs. Unlike most consignment stores, Stella’s searches for not only classic brands, but also emerging artists, local designers, and brand new items. The quality of everything creates an atmosphere more akin to a fresh-off-the-rack boutique than a consignment store. As an additional bonus, the owners have a sister consignment store just down the street called Seesaw, which specializes in children’s clothing.
Nothing says luxury like bespoke eyewear or independent designers, and Rims & Goggles provides both. Their 45 years in the world of optometry has given them a sixth sense when it comes to what brands aren’t worthwhile and which ones are.
This purveyor of fine stationery and gifts is the perfect place to swing by to pick up a present for that writer or artist in your life. Any calligraphy enthusiast would drool over the variety of high quality paper goods on display, and if you’re in need of a last minute greeting card to convey holiday cheer or birthday wishes, Folio has you covered as well.
Between a downtown location and an additional showroom, Summer House presents the intersection of style and lifestyle. This business’ 30 years of treasure hunting have resulted in a collection designed to inject spirit into a home. Make sure to check out the curated showroom for larger pieces and the downtown location for anything on the smaller side. If you’re looking for more comfortably rustic than clean and sharp, Summer House is likely to have the unique item you’ve been searching for.
Poet and/the Bench has everything, including the kitchen sink. Looking for some gorgeous new jewelry? They’ve got it. Want a unique painting to decorate your living room? They’ve got it. In absolutely desperate need of a ceramic, brightly colored, deeply weird monster? You guessed it: They’ve got it. Rounding it all off are selections of perfume, paper goods, and even culinary items. Owners Jeffrey and Bonnie have created something truly unique in the heart of Mill Valley.
Boasting a separate play spot for kids while the adults do their shopping, alongside an easy-breezy online store that makes ordering from home smooth and painless, Village Child is an ideal store for anyone managing a child or two. Right in the heart of Novato, it’s easy to get to, too. Make sure to check out the shop’s Posh Peanut collections!
Since 1953, Gene Hiller has been providing the Bay Area with fine Italian menswear, personal service, and custom tailoring. Owners Tom and Wayne have a combined total of 75 years of experience in the fashion industry, and have trotted around the globe in search of the finest materials and the latest styles. Be sure to book an appointment, however, as employees will often have less time to attend to walk-in clients than those who have scheduled in advance.
Woodlands isn’t just a great place for quality pet food and stuffed toys, although it definitely is that as well. On Wednesdays, it offers puppy training taught by expert trainer Mike Wombacher — if you’re interested, be sure to register in advance. If you’re looking for a kitty, Woodlands also has options, as they partner with an animal rescue program to provide in-store cat adoptions. Looking for quick care for your pet? Look no further, as they have a dental cleaning service and a vaccination clinic.
As the largest surf shop in the Bay Area, Proof Lab more than lives up to the hype. Of course it’s got hundreds of hand-picked surfboards, and of course it’s got wetsuits and skateboards and accessories. But it’s also got an indoor skatepark, ceramics classes, and hosts movie nights.
Boasting a reputation as one of the best toy stores in Marin, they provide helpful staff, classic toys, and even gift wrapping service if it’s the night before Christmas and you need something fast. Despite the brightly colored advertising, don’t be fooled into thinking that the store is only for ages 10 and below, as it offers some games that are sure to be fun for a slightly higher age range as well. If your kid is sick at home, don’t worry, for they have a large online catalog and offer free shipping
Few places in Marin have a more vibrant and holistic energy than Citrine. As a California lifestyle brand, they offer a curated selection of brands like Naadam and Lamarque to help shoppers connect to their sense of style in a peaceful environment that doesn’t alienate any woman larger than a size 4. What makes them stand out is their wider approach to appearance and lifestyle, offering crystals, candles, and even yoga classes to help women connect with their own bodies.
Best of the County Sponsor Shopping
Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine
Belle Marin is the creation of Dr. Faye Jamali, a physician who is committed to providing you with the highest level of treatments and care possible. Dr. Jamali’s self-described style — “minimalism with a touch of luxury” — is at the heart of every treatment. Her goal is to deliver superb results without complicated recovery times and cumbersome surgical risks.
Dr. Jamali has proudly called Mill Valley home for 15 years since moving from San Francisco. Belle Marin, founded in 2018, reflects her commitment to serving her local community with exceptional care and services.
At Belle Marin, we cherish and prioritize every individual who walks through our doors. Our commitment extends to embracing diverse journeys in personal aesthetics, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or stepping into the world of treatments for the first time. We approach each patient with open arms and without judgment, meeting them exactly where they are.
