2438 N. Clark St.
Chicago
773-477-9830
Since opening in fall 2007, this quirky gift and stationery shop has quickly become a must destination for brides-to-be and hostesses alike. Owner, etiquette expert, and stationer Laura Manteuffel has been creating stationery for 15 years. Her own Elizabeth Grace line is traditional with a contemporary twist, although she carries other lines for options at every price point, from $5 to $80 and up. (The average per-invitation price is in the $16 to $25 range.) In addition to weddings, she can also create rehearsal dinner and bar and bat mitzvah invitations, baby announcements, gift bags, and favors. Also find bridesmaid, groomsman, and hostess-appropriate gifts such as Kashwére blankets, colorful French Bull plates, Vosges chocolates, and vintage martini shakers, as well as jewelry (including a great line of cufflinks created from reclaimed wood from Wrigley Field seats for $148). Another perk? The shop offers free gift wrap. Bring any boxed item into the store, buy the wrapping, and the service is free.