Affordable Treasures: Everything But Ordinary – Ramona Journal

There’s nothing in town like Affordable Treasures. Fact is, I’ve never seen anything like it anywhere. 

Every time I go there, I see something new, meet someone new, and learn a thing a two. To describe it as “unique” wouldn’t do it justice. The store may not be a one-of-a-kind, but it feels like it, and many of the items inside are bona fide one-of-a-kinds. 

Affordable Treasures checks more boxes as a gift store than, let’s say, a card shop with gifts. There are so many wonderful items inside, it almost feels enchanted.

The store pleases the eyes with bohemian paisley, country plaid, colorful crochets, unique knives, items of glass and clay, hats for race day, rocks for healing, stones for wearing, pearls, turquoise and more. It’s a treasure trove of wonderful items, both old and new — items made by Ramonans with love and our special local flair. 

The store smells of fresh flowers, scented candles and an oddly appropriate hint of patchouli. From the moment you walk in, it tickles your senses. I feel more creative just shopping there. Sure, it’s a gift store, a florist (Sun Valley Florist is inside) and an art co-op, but you’re once inside, it feels more like an adventure in possibilities.

I didn’t think the name “Affordable Treasures” did a very good job of explaining what’s inside, so I tried to come up a few alternatives: “Everything But Boring,” “Art-fordable Boutique,” “Wellspring Gifts,” “No Kitchen Sinks” or “Many Pretty Things.” Ultimately, I realized the name is perfect just as it is, because the store is filled with treasures, and most everything is surprisingly affordable. 

Anita Zick, the store’s late founder, would be proud of how her dream has grown and how wonderfully the store serves as a hub for so many Ramona artists to display their quality work.

The store is divided into 20 different mini-boutiques. Each boutique is curated by a different artist and is full of items created, refurbished, reimagined or selected for resale. Imagine having 20 unique shops under one roof, each with new gift ideas every week. 

It’s a store like no other — a place where artists encourage one another, learn from one another and compete with one another. The customer is the ultimate beneficiary of all the synergy the store creates. 

If you haven’t visited Affordable Treasures, you’re missing out. If you have visited, but not in a while, you’ll be surprised by how much the store has grown. It’s filled for the holidays with unique gifts and so much more. The shop even offers giftwrapping at no charge. 

I’ve learned to rely on Affordable Treasures for my last-minute gifts, and, truth be told, many of my gifts are purchased last minute, as in, on the way to the party. And if you’re looking for that special item that characterizes Ramona, you’ll find something in nearly every corner of the store. Awesome gifts created and curated by Ramonans for Ramonans — how cool is that!

“You’ll find handcrafted, handmade, recycled, refinished, scrapbooking goods and many new creations all blended into one enjoyable shopping experience,” says store manager Johnnie Holdenried. 

“Plus, many of our vendors are happy to take custom requests. Come on in and see us. You won’t be disappointed!”