Love this gift shop! Perfect gifts for all occasion. A little pricy but have a variety of high quality items

I like to give unique gifts and The Blue House caught my eye. They had a lot of beach style gifts in the window. But, as you walk in the space is filled with many assorted gift sections. There are gifts for children and babies. There is a section for beautiful dining China and cook books. I was fascinated by their pillow section. There were pillows for each state embroidered with things that are special to each place. The DC pillow had cute Panda bears on it. It was just beautiful. Service was excellent. I am sorry, I forgot the sales ladies name but she was so nice and helpful. I really appreciated her assistance. The prices were high, but again you are paying for the unique crafted gifts. The pillow I wanted was $200. That was out of my budget. But, I am sure someone will love it. I will definitely return, because they had a gift selection for people who play mah Jong. I am sure my friends would really enjoy one of their gift items. I am glad I stopped by. read more

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Very cute items and the items I picked out seemed decently priced! I personally don't mind the leave the drinks at the door policy- I feel like with stores like this it's very common. I personally didn't see any signs about not being on my phone, but that doesn't mean there weren't any. In fact, it would explain why the cashier seemed a little tilted (I was on my phone while I was waiting for her to bag things up). I would possibly come back here again despite the slight cold air. I love trinkets and this store seems like a good boutique trinket store. -1 star mainly for my check out experience. read more

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Politically appalling even for being in MOCO. Came in here to buy a friend birthday gifts. Walking throughout the store is very cute, but also very politically blue (hence the name of the store?) that was fine with me, I picked a few things out and then was nearing towards checking out when I saw the magnet section. Thinking I might find something funny... nope. Just magnets that wish the sitting President dead. You should be ashamed of yourself as a business. I will never give a dime to this store. read more

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Honestly an amazing gift shop worth the trip whenever you want to spoil someone or yourself! I found so many things I love and you will want to buy everything! You can find all ranges of prices and there's something for everyone! You can tell how much work and thoughts they put into their shop and they find the most amazing gifts: cookbooks, jewelry, purses, stationery, things for the kitchen, the ultimate best Jellycat stuffed animals (they truly pick the cutest), great mugs and cups, clothes, and so much more. A dream shop Also you get great advice from very energetic and knowledgeable saleswomen/ owners who are very passionate and involved and knowledgeable and know the shop and items by heart. They go the extra mile to help you out ! Such an outstanding gift store!!! Thank you! read more

Been shopping here for years. Very friendly and helpful staff. Huge variety of unusual stock. I always find a perfect gift, for a friend or for me. read more

Stopped in and picked up a Jellycat bag charm. Great selection of cute and unique finds. Can't wait to come back and browse more!

I agree that this is nice store with interesting gifts of wide variety. Points off for customer service which has been unfriendly on my two or three visits this past year. Sometimes it's as if I was invisible, other times, very curt. Today the sales person left me standing there after she rang the charge and left to help another person without a thank you or good bye. She didn't even give me my receipt out of the register. My observations made me wonder if it is because I'm a person of color. I have observed different attention and politeness that could make one think customer service has an appearance bias. I'll shop elsewhere from now on. read more

I loved shopping in this store yesterday! I was welcomed and received excellent customer service from Dana and the store owner. The store had a fabulous selection of gift and holiday items. I was able to find gifts for a variety of occasions and they were all wrapped in a Blue House bag with colorful ribbons! read more

The Blue House - Home Decor Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

I've walked past this store so many times and just assumed it was exclusively a baby gift shop by the things that were in window/sidewalk display. Not entirely true. I think I'd call this a wannabe-boutique sans Ritalin. Polite enough staff. Baby books and toys, onesies. Home decor: collapsible storage baskets, cookbooks, moleskin agendas, kitschy figurines, soaps, gag gifts like cartoon spilt ice cream. Wine bags and stemware. Mom sweaters, clutches, wristlets. A few cute skirts and dresses. Accessories tend towards beaded crafts-- most of the jewelry and belts are cute but not wearable outside of casual situations. Scarf selection was jackpot: grey and black striped infinity scarf, light scarves in polka dot, floral, peacock/animal prints that had me carressing their price tags. The willpower I had to exert to not buy them! I think the no cell phone signs are tri-fold in purpose: you can't talk obnoxiously to ruin other shoppers' experiences, block the narrow pathways because you're texting, or Google to discover the 33% markup on Iron Accent products. read more

The Blue House - Beaded detailing. - Home Decor Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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Cute store with nice gifts. They obviously need to work on their customer service skills. Maybe they're not scared of Amazon taking away their jobs or the store? Hmm. I usually like to support small businesses, but it's easy not to with their attitude. I tried some of the lotion testers on the front counter and asked one of the women for a tissue and she responded back with a snarky response. It made me not even want to buy anything. Good luck! read more

Hands down my new favorite housewares store. There are so many goodies in here for housewarming gifts, baby gifts, birthday gifts... I kept taking spins around the store and finding cuter and cuter things to buy -- so beware! I left with a glass Nantucket cup, luxury hand lotion, a neoprene coin purse, a children's book about the alphabet, and various birthday cards. Everything is lovely! read more

The Blue House - Home Decor Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

Almost gave it two stars, but I realized I just didn't feel welcomed in the store to buy anything. The store is very inviting from the sidewalk but as soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a "can you please leave your drinks on the table". Not really feeling like leaving my drink unsupervised at the entrance, but I was almost done with my tea so I obliged. Very cute kitschy items...books, candles, toys, jewelry, some clothing, just a little bit of everything. Not necessarily my taste but cute store. So, back to the real story...after I get over the drink thing...the same table to leave your drink has TWO (yes I said TWO) signs....that read "happy happy no cell phone zone". OK. I get it...BUT TWO SIGNS??? Hold up!!! There was more than two. I know I saw at least FIVE signs repeating that message. Good grief!! Alright now!!! So, I just left feeling a bit unwelcomed...as I type from my cell phone. "Happy happy yes cell phone zone!" read more

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I don't live in the DMV, but every time I visit family, I come to see what they have. The people who work there are always welcoming and helpful. I always find something I want, even if I don't need it. I have recently ordered something for my family as I won't be traveling back to MD this Christmas and the clerk couldn't have been kinder. It's a small store so requests to leave drinks outside or at the door & prohibitions on cell phones seem completely appropriate to me. I am so over listening to other folks cell phone conversations. read more

I've always loved this store, super cute and has great gifts. I recently needed some new puzzles, but was nervous to go in because of COVID. I called the store and they could not have been more helpful! They FaceTimed me to show me all the different options, and once I picked the ones I wanted they packaged it up, and one of the employees (wearing a mask) came out to my car and gave it to me. Great customer service and I appreciate them making my shopping experience so comfortable and safe! I would definitely feel comfortable going in next time, but was also informed they now have a website as well. Would definitely recommend! Felt great to safely support a small business during these trying times, and my family and I loved the puzzles! read more

We got the cutest cape cod kitchen towel. Staff was friendly and had a great assortment of stuff. Will come back again!

Usually I absolutely hate stores like this. They are full of useless crap that I would never use and do not need. The stuff is all colorful and happy and completely impractical. But there is a reaons it was useful to me. Do you know someone who likes colorful, fun, impractical cutsey stuff? We all do. This store is the place to get it. In fairness I was in and out of there in about 3 minutes and for less than $50 I got Mother's Day sorted out viz: 1X cute purse that is small for those times she does not want to carry all the crap around 1X set of earings which kinda sorta matched the purse 1X cool hippy Indian house music or rap or whatever all the cool kids listen to nowadays CD. Oh wait a minute, cool kids don' t listen to Cds, ah well. Useless crap, but gifts that endure and an OK price point, with decent service and speedy speedy speedy. Actually I was the only guy in the store and it was almost like they wanted me out of there because all the females were going to engage in some sort of crappy consumer goods worshipping fire dance or initiation rite or something even way more exciting than that...... read more

I'm so confused by this store. Is it a gift shop? Is it a baby/kid store? Is it a furniture/home decor store? Is it a wannabe bohemian suburban soccer mom regretting giving up a fabulous art fellowship in Paris to get married and squeeze out 2.5 kids subliminating their desires and frustrations by purchasing kitch at four times what actual real bohemians who DID take that fabulous art fellowship in Paris would pay, store? I just can't tell. read more

I've walked by this place probably 20 times, and never thought to stop in until I needed a baby gift. The store is *exactly* what you'd expect from Bethesda: chock full of overpriced, unnecessary items like napkins with kitschy sayings about wine, designer flasks with polka dots and $30 onesies. Seriously? The baby would probably outgrow one of those in three days. That's $10 a day! The two ladies who greeted me when I walked in must have been the owners, because they were discussing stock items and what was moving and what wasn't. Plus, they hovered. Like Dee said, if you need something feminine and cute, this would be the place to go. I can think of a few moms who would absolutely adore this store, and it would probably be good for bachelorette/bridal shower favors as well. I ended up purchasing a bathtime toy in the shape of a frog that lights up and sings when you put it in the tub. I kind of want to keep it for myself... read more

Unfortunately, the customer service and overall attitude experienced this weekend was so unprofessional, I felt compelled to write this review. Long story short, after 5mins of browsing merchandise in separate isles with my fiancee, a booming voice yelled across the store "We have a no cell-phone policy" directed toward my fiancee' who was making a quiet call with no immediate customers surrounding her, and less than 1/2 a dozen customers in the store overall. My point, it was completely uncalled for behavior. Not to mention, the attitude and verbal tone invoked such scathing hatred from the store clerk. This clerk (who apparently is the owners daughter) could of easily walked up politely and asked my fiancee to step kindly outside. Anything else besides yelling across an empty store would of been better. Standing there shocked, my fiancee' walked out, while I approached the counter asking for a business card and mentioning I would be leaving feedback across multiple media channels about the experience. Her reply "whatever, you're nothing - bye" The real kicker, after searching online it appears this store & this particular person has a track-record of negative behavior toward customers and is rated poorly on Yelp and other user-generated review sites. - Will we ever return - no - Would we suggest this business to friends - no - Will I be leaving more negative feedback across other channels - yes read more

My wife used to shop here for books and small toys for our kids... However, in the middle of the big power outage - with half the neighborhood without power and camping out in the Starbucks next door, the owner comes out to harass my wife who is parked in front of the shop - where we, and LOTS of PEOPLE ALL THE TIME, park with flashers while another person runs into Starbucks. My wife was working out of the Starbucks, but needed a quieter place for a ten minute conference call. So rather than have any sort of compassion or consideration for someone struggling to get through a week without power, this lady's gotta tap on the window and act put out all because she wanted the UPS truck to pull up five feet. Even he didn't care - we talked to him. It was obviously all about her, her store, and making a point. Any sense of courtesy, community, or critical thought completely escaped her. Most importantly, overpriced, and owner's attitude carries over to the staff. read more

*3.5 stars* The Blue House is a cute albeit pricey gift shop in downtown Bethesda, conveniently located right next to Starbucks. The staff can be a bit snooty (I guess that befits a place where an adorable baby outfit might set you back $40), but they have a large selection of gift items - books, household items such as glasses, baby/kids stuff (clothes, books, a few toys), photo frames, jewelry, candles, etc, etc. If you're at a loss for gift-giving ideas for a female friend, this is not a bad place to pop in. My favorites are the state and city glasses (I think they also have some pillows) found immediately to your left when you walk in. read more

I LOVE this shop - great selection of carefully curated, quality items and helpful staff. Gift wrapping (Blue House bag with tissue paper and curled ribbon) is festive and complimentary. One of my favorite spots to shop for hostess gifts. read more

I see a pattern here.... Like some of the other reviewers, I like the items for sale in the store. They're a little pricey, but hey, this is Bethesda. The decor is nice, but the ambiance is a little COLD, mostly because of the 2 women working there. When I entered the store I was on my phone, and browsed a bit while I finished talking to my friend. I didn't ask for help or bother either one of them, but they seemed to want to bother me. Not once, but twice, these women conversed LOUDLY, right next to me, about boxes and inventory. I moved by them the first time, so I could hear my own phone conversation, and then they came over to where I was standing again. I got off the phone and continued looking for a gift. Finally I found 2 things I wanted to buy. I stood at the counter, with items in hand. The woman ignored me for a minute and talked to someone else (staff...?), and then finally asks if I was ready to check out. I should have just left, because people like that don't deserve business, but I'd walked there and didn't want to feel like I'd wasted my time. Come on, ladies. Would it hurt you to pull the stick out of your @sses and smile? Maybe even act pleasant towards your customers?? Cute items or not, I don't think I'll be returning to this store. read more

This is a really cute gift shop, packed so full of stuff that it's actually a challenge to get around without fear of knocking something over. They have a great selection of childrens and baby gifts, including clothing and unique books and toys (I came in looking for a baby shower gift). I spent some time browsing the fun cookbooks and kitschy home accessories, too. They also sell jewelry, wall art, and clothing, but didn't really suit my taste, and I could see it appealing to maybe an older woman. Overall it's a little pricey, but if you need something for a baby shower, hostess gift, or mom/grandma, you'll find it here. read more

No, the ladies who work there are not falling all over themselves to help, but they're not rude to me either. (I live nearby and I'm in there a lot.) I like the store because I can quickly find interesting gifts for everyone -- kids, friends, MIL, etc. I decided to write this review specifically to address the 1-star yelpers who go in there talking on their cell phones, walking by the large NO CELL PHONES SIGN on the door (maybe they missed it because they were on their cell phones?) and then complain because the employees told them to GET OFF THEIR CELL PHONES. I have zero idea why the shop bans cell phones, but they do - and they make that clear upfront. If that's a problem, either hang up or don't go in there to shop. read more

Great selection of unique gifts. If you are looking for a house warming gift or a special present this place is for you... read more

The Blue House - Home Decor Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

Wow! I should have read the reviews before walking in. I was lured in bc of the cute displays and the feel of little unique trinkets, until I realized how pricey but not great quality everything was. I gave myself a chance to look around and maybe find something. I found 2 magnets with me and my husband initials. Apperantly this wasn't good enough of a purchase and they greeted me at cash register with a nasty " oh is that's all?" . Next when they didnt accept cash for small purchases I turned to ask my friend for cash and the cashier was so nasty she asked me "what did you" say in a rude/ mean way, like what could I possibly be saying haha. Never again with these rude people. read more

Hey middle-aged lady behind the counter: Try not to convey the fact that you really hate this part-time job to your customers. It really kills my "I just found something super cute" mood. Plus, you made me dock TBH one star. Thx. This is a nice, reasonably priced gift store (for the D.C. area). They have just enough baby stuff to cover all of my fertile friends, but I do wish they'd clear the aisles a little. read more

The Blue House is my go-to for the absolute best, most original and fun gifts and homewares. The owner has a great eye and the store is always full of fantastic items that you can't find anywhere else. The staff is super-helful and they bag the gifts beautifully so you can head straight to your event with gift in-hand and ready to delight :) Love this store! read more

This is a cute little store with many whimsical stuff. If you don't like shopping in a crowded store then this store is not for you. They have many beautiful merchandise. The staff was very friendly and fun to talk with. Nice place to pick up a cute gift for any age. read more

A fun store that is full of wonderful things. I found some items to purchase, took them up to the counter to pay, and was shocked at the items I saw on the countertop. Political magnets that were all put downs of our President. So disrespectful and low class. Can't people just let us shop in peace without bringing political views into the experience?? My opinion of this place has slipped a few notches. Such a shame. read more

Super cute store and one of the only places to buy interesting gifts in Bethesda. The staff has always been extremely helpful to me...I can describe a person and they invariably come up with a nice gift idea. Creative, diverse array of stock. It is pricey, but I'm sure the rent is high, and the prices are not crazy. read more

Very cute store with a great variety of fun and useful items and gifts (for friends or yourself!) I pop in every time I'm in Bethesda. Needed a puzzle during these crazy times so I was able to actually FaceTime with a staff member who showed me the puzzles in stock! I drove by and was able to have someone deliver them to me! Appreciated that she kept her mask on as she made her way to my car. Can't wait to go back in person to see all the great stuff in store! A must stop during the holidays for the more unique gifts! read more

I happened upon The Blue House randomly so I had zero expectations and was pleasantly surprised by their offerings. Yes, it's an eclectic store with all kinds of knick knacks, off-the-wall books, home goods, pet supplies, gag gifts etc, so I can see how the store can be confusing if you visit with a purpose in mind. However, if you want to roam around aimlessly, this is a great place to do it. I just got kinda lost myself in the products - especially the soaps and candles which all smelled heavenly! That was definitely my favorite part of the store. Every candle and soap, one after another, smelled perfect. I loved the Linnea's Lights candles - the Magnolia scent and Sweet Grass scent, and a few others were available. They are hand poured soy candles with an amazingly fresh scent. I also spent a lot of time looking at the Michel's Design Works bath line - soaps, dishes, candles, matchsticks etc. The packaging is so beautiful and the scents are pleasant as well - available scents are Beach, Sea Shore, Peony, Tutti Frutti, etc. These products are not widely available unless you purchase online or through The Blue House, where you can actually smell the products. This would be a great place to pick up a thoughtful gift for someone or something for yourself as a pick-me-up. I ended up purchasing a Michel's soap dispenser in Sea Shore and I love it! I will be back for some extended browsing when I am in Bethesda again. The other reviews regarding the staff are spot on - don't expect to be acknowledged. read more

I was just in and asked for help and was blatantly ignored by the saleslady at the front. Very cute store full of fun trinkets. Disgraceful customer service. Would not recommend to anyone. read more

Great store! Even better website! Loved my experience here and the employees were very kind and helpful. I thoroughly enjoyed the store layout and have returned many times. Incredibly user-friendly website as well. Would highly recommend! read more

I'm so tired of traveling and trying to find unique specialty gifts and just finding Macy's and Anthropologie everywhere. You travel 1,500 miles to see the same mall-fare you had before you left the ground. The Blue House is different and reminds me of DC and Kensington's Catch Can and also Liberty House in New York City. Lot's of kids stuff, natural, relaxed clothing, a few cards, accessories, housewares, gifts, even molasses cookie mix and honey. They have lovely china and kitchen accessories. Really nice shopping. I plan to do all of my holiday shopping here. I got some beautiful soap "Peacock") and a Made-in-France bread knife. I love this store. Use a municipal lot on Woodmont if you need parking. read more

Normally I love this store and all its unique gifts, however I was very disappointed with my latest experience there. I went with my mom who the saleslady recognized as shopping there frequently. She asked my mom to check out some of the new spring line purse options. All was going fine when my mom pointed out that the last purse she bought (she had it with her) handle was breaking off. The lady said they have had a few complaints and told my mom they are now half price and she could buy a new one. I was thinking....well you recognized my mom a as a frequent customer....the purse has had complaints...should you offer to exchange it not have her buy another that may have the same problem. It has made me look for other places to buy these same items. At the very least she could have apologized for the poor quality of the purse! read more

Interesting variety of items but unreliable customer service. I was looking for a specific item (one of those state-themed dish towels) and called in advance to ask if they had one for the state I was looking for. The person who answered the phone said "let me check" when I asked her about it, and after a couple of minutes came back and said "yes, we do." When I got there that day, within an hour or so, it turned out they didn't in fact have it. It doesn't take much skill to correctly identify whether you've got a specific item in your inventory when a customer calls, but apparently it's beyond this store's ability. read more