Today my friend and I stopped at the Alley on Bitters (formerly named Artisans Alley) to try out the Bread Box and afterwards we happened upon Iva Style. What a wonderful and unique shopping experience! The staff was so personable (without being intimidating or intrusive) from the minute we walked in. It felt like we had been friends forever. Our four young boys were with us and they were treated like family too. The sweet sales person stooped down to eye level to my youngest (age 3) and gently took the time to explain to him 'why' he should not touch the guitar that was propped against the wall (not just admonishing him for touching it - good teachable moment done with love and respect). Then she followed that up by giving him (and the other kids) a coloring book! What a darling thing to do! The store was covered in unique artwork, jewelry, accessories and finds you don't see in other places. I enjoy a colorful whimsical aesthetic, it was like walking into HAPPY LAND! And oh! my! gosh! The baby & children's clothes are to die for! What a perfect place to come for a gift! We learned about some new womens athleisure & womens clothing items she has in the works. I will be absolutely be back to check them out. They do carry an extensive collection of Meileg dollhouse items. This makes me wish I was 5 again. Our little ones were in wonder (as I was) taking in the experience of the store, but were very careful to look and not disturb. I know it's so difficult to keep a boutique going in this day and age were people want to buy everything online, but what would we do if we didn't get to actually see and enjoy these treasures in person any more? What fun would life be then? I think it's important to visit your local businesses and help out where you can. We learned Iva Style is also a woman owned business, and I commend her for making it through Covid. Hopefully the rest of the Artisans Alley will soon come back to life. It does look like its had a few hits but WE all carry some economic power to help bring these fun places back to their former glory. Its a perfect place to go have a girls day (my husband enjoys too) without having to drive all the way to Boerne or Fredericksburg. They have a wine bar where you can get a charcuterie board some other shops that are truly gems, like a balloon specialty shop! Definitely check out The Alley on Bitters. read more