Apparently, We Nailed the Teen Section

One of the most fun things about owning a gift shop is watching a new section suddenly click.

Lately, that’s been our teen section.

Last weekend, kids were genuinely excited about the new Kitsch products we brought in — the kind of reaction that immediately makes us think, Okay, what else do we need over here?

We’ve been building out the section with things that feel fun, useful and just grown-up enough without being boring. Along with Kitsch, we have K’Lani hair accessories, skincare and facial products from Rare Beauty Brands, Natural Life Boho Bandeaus, and plenty of little things that work for birthday gifts, sleepovers, self-care nights or just because.

What they’re loving right now

A few favorites have already made themselves very clear.

Our Kitsch satin pillowcases sold out, which was probably the biggest sign that we were onto something. We still have the satin bonnets, though — and they’re an even better option if the goal is protecting your hair overnight.

We’re already reordering the pillowcases and expanding the assortment based on what customers have been asking for, including the Kitsch Hair Taming Wand.

The skincare has been a hit too. From Patchology, Lip Service and Eye Want Candy have been especially popular — easy little self-care treats that also make great gifts.

And one of our longtime favorites is having a whole new moment with the teen crowd: Kimono Clips. The girls are absolutely loving them.

Then there are the squishies.

Our NeeDoh drops have become an almost-weekly event, and teens are definitely part of the crowd coming in to see what’s new.

We’ve also added Sugar Squish from Goolala, plus some truly ridiculous — in the best possible way — ORB Jumbo Squishies.

And when we say jumbo, we mean it.

Right now we have a giant cheese, jumbo banana, pickle and goose, and they are exactly as silly and irresistible as they sound.

And then there are the Natural Life Boho Bandeaus.

Those basically disappeared.

Particularly after I put one on a mannequin as a bodice.

Yes, a bodice.

Apparently sometimes the best merchandising strategy is simply showing teenagers that something can be worn in a way they hadn’t thought of yet.

More Boho Bandeaus are already on the way.

What I’m loving most about this section is that it’s becoming a place where teens can actually browse for themselves. Hair accessories, skincare, squishies, sensory toys, wearable things, gifts for friends — all in one spot, without feeling like it was designed by adults guessing what teenagers might like.

And we’re definitely not done.

We’re watching what sells, listening when customers ask for something, and bringing in more of what gets that immediate:

“OMG, you have this?!”

reaction.

So if you have a teen or tween in your life — or you need a gift and have absolutely no idea what they’re into right now — come take a look.

The teen section is having a moment.

And we’re having a lot of fun building it with them.