After living in San Francisco for 9 years, I decided to venture over to see what Alameda is all about. I could have spent the whole day in Modern Mouse! What a great find! They sell really great items from local designers, and the prices are great. I wanted to buy 1 of each item for myself, for my friends, for my sister, etc, but I practiced self-control and left with just a cute headband, a necklace, a print from an artist from Portland, and a cute little button made with fabric. The sales girls were really sweet and friendly, too! If you're in Alameda, make it a point to swing by Modern Mouse. read more

Love love LOVE this place and how it supports local and national artists, handmade crafts, etc! Lots of really cool art and unique gifts here! I was also really stoked to see they carry Phil Barbato's stuff. He's from my Homestate of Virginia and I am familiar with his creations! As a fellow crafter, I highly recommend shopping here and supporting fellow artists/crafters! Who knows what kind of treasures you will find! read more

This store is awesome! Whenever there's a reason to get gifts for someone I love, especially folks who don't live In Alameda but love ppl from our island town, gifts from here are always loved and appreciated. They support local Bay Area artists and even sell my album there. Even you could walk in there and grab an MJoy "Call it a Unicorn" album or sticker today! This place is the best and the owners are the sweetest read more

This is one of my first reviews that isn't a restaurant, so knowing that, you gotta know this place is pretty special. It's amazingly hipster in here, but thats ok. All the super neat things more than make up for all the fixed gear bike references. All of the items in here are made around the Bay Area by local artists/designers. Ranging from cute, to strange, to just straight up cool. I really liked the purses and handbags there had here. If I was a girl, I'd totally rock one of them over a Coach bag anyday. Also, the lego/scrabble jewelry? Only seen that kind of stuff online. They have some pretty neat mens accessories though. They have a really cool assortment of ties. I'd totally buy one if I was a tie kind of a guy, but I don't even know how to tie one yet. I did buy one item though. I got a wallet, since my current wallet is fat. I wear skinny jeans, so fat wallets make it look like I have this huge bulge coming out my pants. Usually that's a good thing, but not when it's all the way where my pocket should be. So I got a skinnier wallet, and it fits perfectly in my pants. Really neat store to come check out. One of those places that I really only expected to find in Berkeley or Haight/Ashbury. read more

My husband and I stumbled on this shop today and we loved that this little store exists within the big name shops at Southshore. It has high quality unique gifts made by individual artists, small American manufacturers, and Japanese imports. Finally a store that isn't made in China. We bought a bib with a print of a squirrel holding up drum sticks for our musician friend who just had a baby. Perfect, original and $12 bucks. We wish there was more men's and children's selection. We will return fo sho. read more

I can't visit South Shore (The old name is back -- woo hoo!) without making just a quick stop in this adorable shop. The hardest part is deciding what to buy! Together, my boyfriend and I have purchased: - fridge magnets made from bicycle parts - an adorable squirrel pendant made from Precious Metal Clay (check out Lulubug Jewelry!) - a squirrel pillow - super comfy fabric headbands - roll-on perfume in Lychee (a scent I rarely find!) My boyfriend has been hinting at wanting a build-your-own-robot kit, and I love love LOVE the screen printed T-shirts with the Oakland shipping cranes! Keep up the good work, Eleen & friends! read more

What a fun store, chock full of an excellent variety of unique gift items, and they are a venue for local and independent artists. Just a great spot to find one of a kind gifts and cards. Catie U. read more

Order a few things online, the service was so friendly! The products were of good quality! Hell, I loved the way they packaged my order! How did they know I loved these colors so much?! read more

love it! As a crafter myself, I can really appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. I did my holiday shopping here and all of my recipients LOVED their gifts! Eleen is great and has great knowledge of each of her vendors. If they don't have what you are looking for, she will order it for you! I love modern mouse! read more

As some of you may know from my review, I own a gifts store. And I love every single piece I carry. Nonetheless, I go to Modern Mouse when I want to indulge in some gift shopping. I decided to buy all my xmas gifts from local designers and artists, and I had no problem to find original tasteful well executed gifts for my family members (ranging from grand father to baby nephew, by teen cousin). Keep up the good work. read more

A wonderful local shop that sells wonderful, locally-made items! Whenever I need a thoughtful, unique gift for someone I head straight to Modern Mouse. I know when I purchase a gift for someone there it will be well-made and different. I especially love the jewelry selection and the greeting cards! Bonus that they have a little kids' play area so parents can shop for a bit while the kids are entertained. Prices can be a bit on the steep side. read more

Tucked away in a strip mall is this fantastic little shop, filled with locally made treasures. I've been in here twice, they have really nice, unique things. The first time I bought a candle (thrilling, I know). I had just stumbled upon the place, trying to find the elusive 24 hour lite hidden somewhere between Trader Joe's and Beverly's. I came back to buy some coasters as a birthday present for a friend of mine. One of the artists does these great sketches of things like sewing machines, ovens, motorcycles, and sells them also on towels and coasters. Alameda-specific market bags, tee shirts, beautiful jewelry, candles, soaps, prints, wall hangings....everything is unique and a lot of things are a little different and quarky. I have my eye on several items currently. My perfect place to find something different as a gift, and to pick up a little something for myself. read more

It's one year later and Modern Mouse is no longer a pop-up shop. It's a full-fledged store now! They're going strong with a really nice staff and lots of new inventory from local designers. Congrats on your first anniversary!! read more

Walked by here often before stepping inside. I love the idea of buying locally, and everything here is locally made. They're currently moving across the way to a new space about the same size. I think they'll re-open the second week of Feb. 2013. Before they moved, they had a moving sale where items were 25% or more off. Got some really cute jewelry from here & they have a fun selection of clothing. Good for greeting cards and children's items too. Definitely should stop in if you're in the neighborhood. They have a rewards program that doesn't require a physical card. YAY cuz I always lose those. Spend $10 ten times and you get 10% off your next purchase. I've been in there two times and have already reached my first 10% off... shows how much I enjoy this place. Things can be pricey, but remember it's local and it's worth it. read more

Modern Mouse - Free water bottle w/ minimum purchase & check in on yelp - Cards & Stationery Near Me - Alameda, California

I'm almost embarrassed by how much I go here. Almost being the key word. This store is amazing. I buy every single gift for all of my friends/family here. You just know nobody will be getting them the same thing...because these items are all one of a kind. Really artsy and fun. read more

Love this little boutique, always find the perfect gift! Got my boyfriend the build-your-own robot origami thing. Got my best friend a little hand made ring. Got my mom a small change purse. Got myself one adorable wallet! Friendly staff, fabulous things. Love it! read more

I've only been here a couple of times and I do plan to come here for my gift shopping in the future! This is a great place to shop for yourself or for others. Price ranges vary. I've seen items as low as 50c. I try not to purchase items on the net because I feel we need to support our local retail establishments. It's nice to know that there are brick and mortar stores that keep my interest and worth my business. All of the items here are crafted locally and I feel it's a good way to check out local artist crafts as well as supporting them financially. Even if one doesn't buy anything this place in the least helps to support support their name by carrying their items! read more

This store has tons of great artist-made gifts. It's like shopping on Etsy but way better because you don't have to scroll through a million photos, they have done the curation for you. It is where I go to find gifts for friends who have everything. read more

Cute little store with postcards, posters, scarfs, decorations, designers T-shirts, books, paintings and other creative goods. Not very impressive but not bad. Located at south shore shopping center. surrounded by many stores and supermarkets. read more

Went out to visit this shop last month and bought a very cool tee shirt. I was blown away by how beautifully this shop is put together and the helpfulness of the staff. Bravo! read more

Super friendly staff, lots of artsy local jewelry. I like shopping here for souvenirs too, they have a great variety of T-shirts with the logo of Alameda and Oakland, the greeting cards and frames are very nice. This store have a great variety of hand made goods. They have something for all ages, my daughter likes the sticker and stuffed animals. read more

Really fun and cute locally made art, cards, and shirts. Great for browsing if you're in south shore or go there purposefully for nice cards, t shirts or hardware. I got a print by a local artist that's going on my wall. read more

Love this place! This is my go-to destination for gift-buying, and I never come out empty handed no matter who I'm buying for (the fashionista, the quirky uncle, small gift for cousin's new girlfriend, etc). The staff are super helpful and friendly (except for one gal, don't know her name, but she is very cold and difficult compared to the rest of the dazzling staff), and they'll provide gift wrapping and gift receipts if necessary. Heart! read more

Mint and Matt offered us incredible customer service! The gift wrapping was beautiful! They were friendly, helpful and attentive on top of being able to multi-task! We love this little gem of a local store! read more

I have enjoyed shopping at Modern Mouse ever since they opened -- they have always been one of my go-to places for gifts for friends young and old, as well as myself on occasion. But I had a very unpleasant customer service experience there earlier this summer that has soured me on the store. I brought back a t-shirt I wanted to exchange, well within their exchange time frame, with the tag still on. The fellow who helped me (I believe one of the co-owners) examined the shirt for what felt like an awkwardly long time. He laid it out, dusted it off, used a roller thing, hung it up, inspected it....this went on for almost 10 minutes. He finally said he could only give me a partial refund because it looked stained. There was a slight smudge on it but I assured him it had never been worn, which it had not. I don't want to get into the details of our back and forth except to say that I found his implied accusation and tone offensive. From the outset, it felt like he was implying that I was trying to pull something over him by returning a used or damaged shirt and that he could not sell the shirt for the same price in the state that I was returning it in so thus the reduced value for my exchange. He wasn't necessarily being unreasonable, but at that moment, he made a choice. He could have graciously taken back the tee and allowed me to pick out something that we liked better and maintain a positive customer relationship. Or he could risk insulting his customer and leave her to walk out very unhappy (actually angry) and uncertain about ever returning. He chose the latter and hopefully my feedback will be helpful. read more

Great little shop meticulously curated with tons of local artisan wares. Everything is super affordable and unique. Staff is friendly! Will return many times whenever on the island. read more

I love this place! I feel inspired to make something every time I come here! I love that everything here is made by local/independent artists and not mass produced so most items are unique, which makes it my favorite place to find gifts. They have a wide variety of things from hand soaps to bibs to belt buckles to mugs. My favorites are the art prints by Tomoko Maruyama as well as the earrings by yeah. hello. The only downside is that things can be pricy, but at least I know I'm supporting an artist who put a lot of hard work into their work and not some evil corporation. Furthermore, the staff is great. I love the owner, Eleen! She's the sweetest and she's very helpful. They also have free craft nights with snacks and drinks. Last month, I made a monogrammed tote bag with my friend and all the supplies were fee (donations are encouraged!). I love this place and I hope Eleen keeps it up! And they gift wrap!!! :)))) read more

Providing an Exceptional Local Service for an Overseas Customer: Organising a gift for someone long-distance can be extremely difficult, especially when it needs to arrive on a specific day. Eleen, Matt O, and the team at Modern Mouse were able to do that for me without any hesitation. Although the online store had a comprehensive display of items on offer, Matt went above and beyond by emailing me additional gift suggestions specifically tailored to the occasion. All of my queries were responded to promptly. After getting in contact with Matt, I was reassured that there would be no issue getting the gift sorted out for the date I needed it delivered. Usually when I order a product online, there is a feeling of uncertainty that issues happening throughout the ordering process may cause delays. Instead, I was able to call to discuss any concerns I had, and everything ran smoothly. I was very satisfied with the smoothness of the delivery process, and the exceptional customer service I received both online and over the phone. Thank you, Modern Mouse! read more

I love this place! Products from local artists - all super cute, unique, and mostly Bay Area inspired. I wanted many items for myself, but resisted and bought a couple gifts for friends. Prices are very reasonable and they has a frequent buyer program! I definitely will be back, so I signed up! read more

Its basically everything you love on etsy in one physical location. Amazing, but a bit pricey. Probably the equivalent of etsy items plus shipping. I could spend hours in there! read more

This place is adorable and a hidden gem at South Shore. In the midst of the big box stores and chain restaurants galore, you can walk in here to get a breath of fresh air and browse all kinds of cool gifts and local artists' wares: soaps, ties, cards, toys, baby stuff, jewelry, wallets, bowls made out of vinyl records, knitted cowls -- it's all here! I always love dropping in and checking out what's new. I only wish that I had more cash to support this store!! read more

This is a seriously awesome amazing place! They have amazing gift options, locals goodies, awesome staff, and the cutest squishiest store ever! They support small business and local art and it is essentially a one-stop-shop for shopping small. Before you consider big box stores, please go check here first and feel great knowing that what you spend goes back into the community (: read more

Saw a Godzilla tote in their window in March, and it drew me in. Lovely and fun place to shop. A must see.

Aww,... I had hoped to be the first to Yelp this fantastic new store which held it's Grand Opening today! Walk down the alley between Safeway and Trader Joe's at Alameda Towne Center - once you arrive at the intersection you will find Modern Mouse on your left. It is a great, fun new store which supports the local community. Modern Mouse offers a fantastic selection of unique stocking stuffers and gifts for all 8 nights of Hanukkah :) I found some wonderful merchandise for myself: a really cute change purse with a very happy elephant fabric, cute hair clips, and this awesome plush squeezy toy that you can squeeze in the palm of your hand to relieve tension! SO LOVE IT!!!! read more

I am really impressed with this stores selection, hence the "I want one of everything feeling" that rises upon entering. I've only found 1 (or maybe 2) stores that have done this for me in the past. Catering to local, unique, upcycled beauties this shop has something for any of your individual gift needs. My retail therapy has bumped up majorly in cool points after visiting modern mouse. Thank you for my yummy charcoal soap via mispa, and the awesome hand lotion perfectly blended as well as my delightful jewelery...much sunshine and smiles abound. my favs included the stuffed fuzzy dinosaur, handknit bunny and hapa onesie---go check it out for yourself! read more

great place to find gifts that vary for all types of personalities! there are gifts that range from $7-$100. i found some awesome perfume from mi-so and the cutest keychain from archicraft. i'm going back to pick up the keychain holder that i'm absolutely sure will receive compliment after compliment. if you're looking for a place to pick out a gift for someone who has EVERYTHING, come here to find that special something. all the staff that i've met here are kind and courteous. the owner is also the a sweet sweet girl :] go here and find that unique handmade/local-made gift for that special someone! read more

Modern Mouse is the best if you want super unique, relevant gifts and believe in supporting small businesses and local artists! When I come in looking for a gift for a friend, i ALWAYS find something! (For them and for me... ) The staff are always really helpful and polite. Would highly recommend 10/10 read more

I have never struck out at Modern Mouse! They are great people with great merchandise and I makes me happy to support them. Definitely my favorite store in Alameda! This is my go-to stop for the younger set on my gifting list. read more

Tucked away in the midst of chain stores, this great little store is so charming and imaginative and fun to drop in on. Great t-shirts, jewelry, soaps, household items, cards, gifts, surprises, all creative and charming. The proprietor is truly nice, too. Anytime you need a cute top or a gift and you want to buy something local and hand-made, this is the place to go. read more

If you love handmade, one of a kind gifts, then you'll love it here. As an etsy.com addict, Modern Mouse has the whimsical and eclectic items I love. They have unique accessories, off-beat t-shirts and cute baby clothes. Plus, my daughter loves their origami robots. read more