A love letter to my favorite local shops — the hidden gems, small businesses, and beautifully curated spots around Fargo that deserve all the love (and maybe a few of your dollars). Includes party supplies, macarons, vintage denim, and the occasional gummy shark. You know, the essentials.
I closed the doors to the Alina shop... like, two days ago. So naturally, instead of resting or organizing my pantry or doing any of the 47 other things I should be doing, I’m here — tossing together a blog post because my brain doesn’t have an off switch. Is this a perfectly timed and strategic rollout? Absolutely not. But this little corner of the internet is how I process things — and share the stuff I love — so here we are. (And to be fair, I'm running through time cards in another tab at the same time.)
Even before I had my own boutique, these local shops were my go-tos. They were doing cool, beautiful, creative things long before I was, and honestly, they’ve always inspired me. Their spaces, their people, their energy — all part of what shaped what Alina even was in the first place.
So, this blog post isn’t some big launch moment. It’s more like a “I can’t stop thinking about this and needed to get it out” moment. And while my shop is now closed, the spirit of Alina is still very much alive — in the things I find, the people I love supporting, and the joy of curating little bits of beauty even when my house looks like a tornado hit the arts & crafts bin.
These local gems — some tucked in, some longtime favorites — are full of that Alina energy. They’re places I go to feel inspired, snag a gift, or treat myself when my kids aren’t climbing the displays.
I know shopping local can be hard sometimes. My life, like a lot of yours, is centered in a one-mile radius of school drop-offs, daycare, work chaos, and a house full of snacks. I don’t always have time to browse. I forget birthdays. I panic-order gifts at 11 p.m. But I want to be better at this. And part of that is knowing it doesn’t have to mean buying something every week. Sharing a post, commenting on a photo, grabbing a gift card to tuck away for later — it all counts. It all helps.
So this list is a love letter, yes — but it’s also a little reminder to myself that just because my shop closed doesn’t mean I stop showing up for the places (and people) who helped get me here.
Preferably with a macaron in hand.
So if you’re looking for a new favorite spot, need a last-minute gift, or just want to be reminded that our little city is full of wildly talented people doing beautiful things — here are a few of the shops that have always meant a lot to me. They've inspired me, supported me, and honestly, just made life feel a little more joyful (and a lot more stylish).
Hand Picked Goods
14 Roberts St N, Fargo
One-of-a-kind vintage finds, playful accessories, and unexpected gems that make your home feel layered and lived in. I always walk out with something I didn’t know I needed. Bonus: she has the cutest kids’ party supplies — I used her dino-themed decor for Rowe’s 3rd birthday, and I’m still not over it. Mermaids, unicorns, dinosaurs, you name it — it’s a tiny party paradise in there.
Follow on Instagram: @handpickedgoods
Mint + Basil
714 Main Ave, Fargo
A staple next door to Alina, and still one of my favorite spots for elevated basics, cozy gifts, and some of the cutest little decor pieces. Their focus has shifted more toward fashion and lifestyle lately, and their clothing selection is full of fun, stylish pieces that rotate often — always something fresh to discover.
Shop their online store: Shop Mint + Basil
CUL DE SAC
23 8th St S, Fargo
Formerly known as Kittsona, Culdesac has totally reinvented itself — and it’s kind of magic. Now focused almost entirely on vintage clothing (like, 90% vintage!), they’ve curated a seriously cool collection that ranges from sought-after rare pieces to everyday finds with style. The remaining 10%? Fargo and NoDak-branded gear that keeps things grounded and local. It’s a mix that feels fresh, nostalgic, and totally wearable.
Visit them on Instagram: @meetculdesac
Unglued
1702 1st Ave N, Fargo (Inside Brewhalla)
Colorful, creative, and community-driven. If I need a gift, a laugh, or a dose of handmade magic, I head here. Their mix of local makers and quirky finds is unmatched.
Explore Unglued: @ungluedmarket
Yeobo Sweet Shop (Inside Unglued at Brewhalla)
1702 1st Ave N, Fargo
A candy shop inside a market full of magic? Yes, please. This place is packed with nostalgic and international sweets, gifts with personality, and treats that make your kid's day (and yours, let’s be real). Bonus: it’s run by my neighbor, so I have a solid source when I need gummy sharks at 10pm.
Shop or follow: @yeobosweetshop
Sonder Bakehouse
3001 Bluestem Dr (West Fargo)
Hidden gem status: HIGH. Kayla became famous for her cheesecakes (for good reason), but now she’s also known for her insanely good macarons in rotating flavors like fruity pebbles and animal cookie — the kind of flavors that make you gasp and text a friend. She changes them weekly, so it’s basically a bakery-based treasure hunt. Oh, and she’s now making a Midwest brownie for 701 Eateries that’s like a puppy chow–meets–scotcheroo–meets–brownie situation. Absolute legend. Her space is amazing, she also teaches classes and puts on amazing events. (Join me and grab a ticket for her upcoming fundraiser for @charitywater)
Follow on Instagram: @sonder.kitchen
Aal Yours
Neighborhood Consignment & Antiques
This one’s for the treasure hunters. It’s got that "organized chaos" charm, and I mean that in the best way. Vintage finds, quirky furniture, unexpected deals, and the kind of place where you might find a gorgeous mirror... or your kid climbing into a display basket. It’s a little wild and a lot wonderful.
Explore: @aalyours
O'Day Cache
317 Broadway N
Global treasures and artisan home goods — this shop feels like a little world tour tucked into downtown. I love their furniture, carved bowls, and textiles with a story. (Also must find their pajamas, robes, and dinner napkins!)
Shop or visit: @odaycache
Proper
Downtown Fargo
If you’ve ever wanted to shop somewhere that feels like walking into your coolest friend’s closet — the one who travels, throws themed parties, and has an epic itinerary for every trip — this is it. Proper has curated a collection that’s fun, fresh, and unapologetically trendy in the best way. Graphic tees, standout accessories, the beloved Just Black denim line — it’s a vibe. Checkout the new spring graphic tees - obsessed.
Check them out: Shop Proper
I’ll be sharing more local favorites in upcoming posts — from hidden gems to home styling favorites to the best spots for slow mornings and cozy dinners.
Got a local shop you’re obsessed with? Send me a DM or drop it in the comments — I’d love to feature more small businesses that spark joy ✨