Cottage Treasures Mercantile

The inspiration

Cottage Treasures Mercantile exists to give old things a second life: the shop curates a constantly evolving collection from community donations and estate cleanouts, so each piece carries a story worth sharing¹ . Every purchase also supports the store's charitable mission, which the owners frame as the whole point of the exercise¹ .

Who's behind it

The shop also restores furniture whenever possible, out of what its own site describes as a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship in vintage and antique pieces¹ .

What to order

• Original artwork: paintings and prints rotate through alongside the furniture .¹
• Vintage apparel: clothing racks sit among the home goods .¹
• Collectibles: small treasures turn up constantly, and the stock changes fast enough that repeat visits pay off .¹

Why you should try it

If you're staying in the Pasadena area and want a souvenir with more character than a postcard, this is the kind of shop where a mid-century chair or an old painting can realistically fit in your luggage¹ . Stock turns over quickly, so what's there the day you visit is unlikely to be there the day you leave .