No matter what the economy, we need to celebrate special occasions, and let friends and family know how important they are.
But one thing we don’t have to do is drag ourselves through endless stores at the mall. Instead, we can simplify our lives, saving time and money by shopping at a neighborhood store that has everything we need for just about everyone on our gift list — Rogers’ Gift Shoppe (5112 Avenue N, 718−692−4509).
A neighborhood staple for 14 years, Rogers’ Gift Shoppe is always expanding and fine−tuning itself to meet customers’ needs. Its latest endeavor is the addition of a full line of sterling silver jewelry that doesn’t tarnish. This attractive collection features semi−precious stones.
Incredibly, they’ve also ventured into some “different” territory, too. The shop recently expanded to include an income tax preparation center. Owner John Rogers’ wife, Regina Harris, is a certified tax consultant who does personal and corporate taxes. Now, customers can shop the store while their taxes are being prepared.
“We keep growing,” says John. To make room for this area, they knocked down a wall, and made a stockroom an office, but it works beautifully, as it still allows for an enormous selection of wonderful gifts to choose from.
For example, it’s still the place to shop for custom−made party favors and cake toppers for brides, Sweet 16 parties, anniversaries, Communions, Confirmations, or any special occasion. Although John usually prefers two weeks notice for custom−made pieces, he also takes great pride in the customer service his store provides. That includes getting work done on short notice when special circumstances occur.
For example, recently a customer adopted a young girl, and was having a christening party for her on a Sunday afternoon. On Friday — less than 48 hours before the big event — she asked John to prepare the favors and balloons for the party. “We had everything done and set up before the customer arrived at the hall,” said John.
This same customer was so pleased with the results, she hired Rogers’ Gift Shoppe to take care of everything for the Communion party. “She travels from Staten Island to shop here,” says John. “If you give good customer service, people will travel.”
Of course, any special occasion calls for a card with just the right words. But finding these right words on a factory−produced greeting card is often a difficult task.
At Rogers’ Gift Shoppe, you can create your own computerized greeting card, detailing everything you want to say. I And for those who prefer to leave the right words to the professionals, there’s a full line of traditional greeting cards, too.
Among the many other gifts you’ll find include leather products, and collectible pill boxes made of crystal and enamel. There’s a religious section where you’ll find gifts for occasions such as Confirmations and Communions, including statues, medals, chalices, rosary beads and books.
“Gifts start at $4 and go up to $1,800 for a crystal chess set,” says John. This huge price range means you can find a small gift for a teacher or acquaintance and a magnificent gift for that special someone who lights up your life, all under one roof.
