Best Places for Last Minute Gifts
It's party season and you never want to arrive empty handed. But who's got time to remember a gift, the card, some colorful tissue? These five spots are easy stops for sure finds. Whether you need a birthday present or hostess gift, one quick stop before you arrive will save your social stature and make someone feel very, very special. Check out our choices for Best Last Minute Gift Shops:
Terrasol: 1742 Polk St., San Francisco, CA, 94109, (415) 567-5213
Terrasol
Run by the most helpful fellows you could hope to meet, Terrasol features unique gifts for unique friends. You'll find colorful, artsy, often inexpensive baubles and festive holiday decorations. Not just sophisticated gifts, Terrasol also features gorgeous fresh floral arrangements. Flora and fauna need to be booked in advance, but you're sure to find something on the spot in this charming Polk Street shop.
Anthem: 3274 Sacramento St., San Francisco, CA, (415) 440-6500,
Anthem
This Laurel Heights home furnishings store offers luxurious gifts for your most fabulous friend. Special occasions deserve special sentiments. Anthem is perfect for a high end house-warming gift, from a lovely coffee table art book to a heavenly cashmere throw. You're going to wow the recipient of whatever you treasure you find at Anthem. And you'll guarantee an invite back!
Les Petits Ninous: 1195A Church St., San Francisco, CA 94114, (415) 826-2189
This adorable Noe Valley children's shop is the perfect place for a last minute gift before you arrive at the park, the playground and the party. You'll also find lots of contemporary clothing for the urban infant. Chic but inexpensive onsies and two-sies line the racks of this charming children's spot.
Qoio: 4068 24th St., San Francisco, CA 94114, (415) 788-5566, Qoio
Named after a Mayan god, Qoio features unique, one of a kind jewelry and gifts. With two locations in San Francisco (Noe Valley and North Beach), you can discover something amazing in every price range. It's always a challenge to find something special for that special someone in your life, but gentlemen in search of striking jewelry need only know to come to Qoio, and ask for a little guidance.
The Last Straw: 4540 Irving St., San Francisco, CA 94110, (415) 566-4692
The Last Straw
We haven't forgotten the Sunset District in our quest to bring you great gifts. And what better place to find a last minute gift than The Last Straw? This tiny white cottage is packed with lovely little rings and sweet sentimental gifts. You'll find helpful service and lots of local options. Nearly half of this store is stocked with San Francisco jewelry designers, soap-makers, knitters and more.
In a real pinch, you can always run into a Walgreens, grab scented candles, bath salts, quirky cocktail napkins, a bottle of wine and a colorful gift bag. Remove the price tags, throw it all together and voila! Hostess gift in 5 minutes and $10.
