Chicago 11/18/11A view of the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11A view of the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
One item you won�t find at many other gift shops: Breakable plates ($40 each)�just like the kind used in the movies. �We thought it would be funny to have a breakable vase on your holiday party and get into a fake fight with a family member,� Black says.
Chicago 11/18/11Nail polish on display at Judy Maxwell in Chicago's Gold Coast.
This popsicle painting ($8,900) is by artist Brian Bonebrake. �We think of it as a great way to keep your family cool and happy.
One of the most affordable items in the shop is also one of the quirkiest: tiny gift boxes with a piece of bubble gum ($1). Customers have been purchasing them for dinner parties and placing them on their guests� plates.
Chicago 11/18/11A view of the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11Items on display at the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11A plastic toy soldier on display at the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11Sumo wrestler soap on display at the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11Sumo wrestler soap on display at the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Local artist Pamela Paulsrud makes these rocks from vintage books ($65 each).
Chicago 11/18/11Book rocks on display at the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11Book rocks on display at the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Chicago 11/18/11A view of the Judy Maxwell store in Chicago's Gold Coast.
This general store and art gallery has been selling trinkets and rarities since 2011. Its focus on beauty and practicality means a large stock of local and international commodities, including French home-spun linens, raw local honey and vintage lingerie. Bonus: You might even bump into Joan Cusack, who's said to own the store.
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