Maker + Muse — Local services in Maplewood

I'll just start by saying if you ever but something here and need to return it, make sure you use the gift credit within a year or they will try to illegally tell you it's invalid. Read on to learn about my terrible experience with this store.

I bought my wife some jewelry that she didn't like. She returned it for credit. A little over a year later she returned to use it and was told by the woman working that they would not honor it because it was over a year old. This is illegal. There are all sorts of consumer protection laws that bar these kinds of policies. I told my wife to keep the gift credit receipt and I'd follow up.

A few days later I called and spoke to the owner, pointing out that not only is it illegal but terrible business practice - especially in a small town like Maplewood. Why would you want to penalize customers who are giving you business? She became increasingly irate as the call went on and eventually began yelling at me that I don't know what it's like to run a small business in a town like Maplewood. Finally she agreed to just give me cash in the amount of the credit. She acted is if she was making a one time exception. Because I can't help myself, I had to remind her that in fact it's illegal and that's why she's giving me my rightful money, which reset her irate cycle.

It was a long, frustrating ordeal. I won't ever go back. It's just a shame for the artists who showcase their work there to have such bad...

I’ve been a loyal customer for years, and I continue to be impressed with Brian (the owner) and Maker + Muse. Where do I begin? First, Brian has impeccable taste - he's curated the products in the store in a way that I never have to worry about quality or whether the product is "in style". You can see how he was a successful interior designer during his time in San Francisco. Second, the store has become my go-to place for gifts - from hostess gifts to birthday presents for my mother-in-law (they also have gift wrapping!). Although the store is not large, Maker + Muse has an incredible range of items from housewares including (the most amazing locally made Birch House) candles, hand soaps and lotions, just the right books, vases, serving dishes, art work, etc. to stylish clothing, bags and jewelry. Brian is dedicated to sourcing and offering the highest quality items possible, and it shows in every single thing that is sold in the store. Third, the place is just a vibe! I usually run in there last minute before a party or a vacation and I know I'm going to find something. I honestly love it. If you are ever in Maplewood, make sure to stop and...

What an amazing store. It is clear from the moment you walk in that they have a very unique assortment of carefully curated items. I have purchased many gifts here for a variety of occasions - housewarming, birthday, Xmas. When I need help putting together a gift, the owner or the other people who work there are so helpful in making suggestions. But my favorite part by far is the jewelry. The assortment of jewelry they have - at all price - points is like no other store. Really tremendous. Let's support Make + Muse, we need stores like this in our towns.

Oh and I forgot about their clothes and accessories - I have sweaters and wraps and hats and gloves and purses and bags, all from Make + Muse and love all of them. I'm hoping one day they'll open a stand along women's boutique next...