art effect — Local services in Chicago

I enjoy this shop for their unique selection of goods, but I was truly disheartened on my visit today. I specifically walked there to buy gifts for family members hosting my baby shower over the weekend. I walked in with my dog (who is exceptionally trained) as I've never noticed a pet restriction. I was about to take a few crystal diffusers to the counter when an associate said hello. I was hoping to hear 'can I help you' but instead she said dogs were only allowed inside if they could be carried because of the fragile merchandise. It must have been obvious that I was not going to pick up my 40 lb dog, especially at 8 months pregnant; so she was essentially asking me to leave. I asked for an exception as I just needed to buy 3 shower gifts and she said she would ask her manager. A moment later, she and the manager returned to coldly reiterate the precious nature of the items in the shop, invite me to the sidewalk sale, and advise me to beware of potential shards of glass by the door left from someone else's misstep. I don't leave a lot of reviews for businesses and would like to support local ones as much as possible. That said, I am looking for more of a 'can I help you' type of place. After all, such a simple question would have yielded a several hundred dollar sale. Missing the days of kindness in retail because otherwise it's just candles and cheese knives and stuff to put more stuff in. And if kindness seems out of range, just put up a clear sign for no...

Update: they’re still racist. I met up with my friend the other day was telling me how they went into what seemed like a cute little boutique only to be harassed and followed under the assumption they were stealing. I asked them where this was and guess what they said! 🙃⛔️⛔️⛔️⛔️

I’ve learned through the reviews that Esther the owner is responsible for this behavior. Her mindset is clear. She should not be operating ANY business in our community. DO NOT SHOP HERE.

(03/11/24) Walked in, asked me if I needed help. I said “no thank you we’re just looking” as one does, just wearing my hoodie and crossbody bag and being nonwhite. I saw who appeared to be the manager (a larger, older, yt woman) briefly utter something to her employee - who proceeded to follow me and my friend around the store. FOR THE ENTIRE TIME. And what seems obvious to me is that these people racial profile. They’re values are based in and rooted in whiteness. (Clearly) Its pretty clear! I did not and will not support this business. There PLENTY of more interesting and unique nonwhite owned businesses around chicago who deserve...

I love this store so much, and am sad to say I can no longer return due to the second time I’ve been treated poorly by an employee - from what I gather, I believe her name is Sybil.

If you’re going to be rude about dogs, make sure there is a sign on the door. We checked thoroughly before entering - my dog is also 7 lbs, I’m not out here trying to bring a pitbull in a china shop.

For similar home items and much friendlier service (also dog friendly), try Eskell in Bucktown, we had a lovely experience and found exactly what we were looking for!

Edit: Since my experience, they have added a sign to the door about dogs and beverages that was not there before (my mother and I thoroughly checked after we were rudely scorned) and have gaslit me in their response about it both on this platform and via text. I’m so disappointed in these owners after reading about a plethora of negative experiences others...