Building Highlow Gift Shop

The Making Of

Sep 30

Sonya Gallardo, Owner of Highlow Gift Shop in Torrance CA .png — I'm opening my very own brick and mortar, an artful and design-conscious gift shop for locals and beyond, in Torrance, CA opening Fall 2021.

I’ve been working in retail (and small businesses in particular) for 20 years. I’ve worked with some of the best shops in Los Angeles and alongside some really talented business owners. I grew up helping my parents with their small business on the weekend as vendors at open markets. I LOVE small businesses. They bring so much character and culture to their communities, along with their primary purpose of creating jobs and services.

Having my own shop is something I have dreamed about for the last two decades and it isn't until now that taking the leap has felt like the right step to take.

Over the last few months, I have created a thorough business plan, negotiated a lease, devised a plan for funding, and designed the shop’s layout, displays, and product assortment.

I am so excited to share what I’m creating with you…

The shop in process. Left side is before, right side is current.

Located at Van Art Square (formerly Del Wee Plaza) in North Torrance.

Where?

2140 Artesia Blvd.
Unit J
Torrance, CA 90504

What?

Highlow Gift Shop, a 480 sq. ft. brick and mortar that will house my already-established jewelry business and will offer so much more. It's somewhat autobiographical, as I am pulling a little inspiration from each place I've worked at over 20 years: a pen store in New York City, a stationery and gift store in Redondo Beach, a design lifestyle shop in Downtown LA, and Art & Craft fairs featuring local makers.

Highlow Gift Shop will be dedicated to showcasing Highlow Jewelry, sharing a thoughtful curation of local goods, works from up-and-coming designers and artists, and some of the best stationery and pens you can find.

It's important to me to serve the local creative community as well, through the creation of opportunities to connect via pop-ups, launch parties, talks, and art shows. I also plan to support BIPOC artists and makers through the inclusion in the store's product curation and through charitable donations to nonprofit organizations that support BIPOC artists.

Why?

To start, the pandemic closed the chapter on my last job as a buyer. Over the past year and a half, I leapt into Highlow Jewelry full-time for the first time ever, and was able to increase my jewelry business by 250%. Spending more time at home, I've grown deeper roots in Torrance and the South Bay. I've never felt so close to where I live. After years of working all over Los Angeles, more than ever I want to contribute to my local community and bring something special for you all to enjoy.

The pendant lights are up. So much work is going into this very special place.

Who?

Me, myself, and I – to start. In the near future, my brother Oscar will be helping me at the shop when he can, and my mother Sara will help out with jewelry orders. Brian will very likely be called upon for thoughtful advice and IT emergencies. I hope to hire a sales associate later in the year, and build a team over the coming years.

I want to give a big shout out to those of you who helped me out in the early stages. You know who you are. Thank you!

Highlow Gift Shop will be the local store you can rely on to pick up something special for all occasions.

When you need something for your home office, the stationery and desktop selection will be able to brighten your work day. It will also be the place you can go to shop exciting brands, discover up-and-coming designers and artists, and to connect with your community.

I have designed this space inside and out, starting with a complete rebrand for Highlow, custom displays and jewelry case, all the way down to blue vinyl tile floors. So much care and consideration has been taken to create a beautiful and inviting space.

I can't wait to see you there!