Charles Mayer & Company has a long history in Indianapolis including 20+ years in its current…read morelocation at 56th and Illinois Street.
Charles Mayer & Company is a "gift shop," though likely not in the fashion you're thinking. If your primary thought is "I'm on a budget," then Charles Mayer & Company is likely not going to be your first destination. This is a "premium" gift shop offering home decor, tableware, books, frames, candles/fragrance, linen, jewelry, fashion, decor, baby items and more.
Charles Mayer & Company began in downtown Indy in 1840. Charles Mayer immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 19. It grew into a five-story building and operated until 1954 when its inventory was sold to L.S. Ayres. The building was then razed in 1959.
Fast forward. In 1992, Claudia Ryan decided to revive the story alongside her husband, Tim. Tim just happens to be a maternal great-great grandson of Charles Mayer. A new tradition was born inside this store on the northside intentionally designed to resemble a home. It's also, much to my surprise, more accessible than I expected - though, given the price of some of its items I'll openly admit this is one store where I'm super cautious.
Somewhat ironically, Ryan is also a former VP of Fashion Merchandising for L.S. Ayres.
So, a few things here.
First off, the customer service is impeccable. If you know me, you know I'm a bit of a slob. Hey, it's true. You can say it. I don't exactly radiate the vibe of being someone who's going to enter your store and spend a lot of cash. So, I'm always a little impressed when I enter a more luxe store and am treated well. At one point, for example, I wrote about the fact that I'd gone through the former Saks Fifth Avenue, not particularly dressed well but with cash in hand, and was completely ignored.
That doesn't happen here. This is a neat little corner - you're talking places like Kids Ink, Byrne's Grilled Pizza, an art gallery, a butcher and more. It's quite cool. Charles Mayer & Company feels natural here and really fits in with the vibe of the area.
The people were friendly. The store is surprisingly accessible. The selection is remarkable - I'm particularly dazzled by the MOVA Globes. While not everything on the website is in-store at all times, it seems like they can usually get it and in a pretty timely manner.
Have you ever wanted a $145 designer fire extinguisher? They have them here (and they are incredible). This place is completely dazzling. However, again, it's definitely a more luxe gift shop. If you're looking for a gift on the finer side, this is definitely a place to check out.