Critters – A One of a Kind Place for Novelty Gifts

Did you know that as of December 2011 Critters (2277 Honolulu Ave.) has brand new owners? The store itself has celebrated being in town over 30 years and the husband and wife team of Jack and Christine have made it their mission to restore it to its original roots.

Long having a reputation for novelty, fun, and unusual gifts for people of all ages, here is some of what’s happening at Critters today. Their bestselling “Primitives by Kathy” line features unique signs for the home with sentimental and funny sayings on them. The entire “Hello Kitty” line is here, as well as a wide variety of greeting cards, stuffed toys and nostalgic candy. They just got in a shipment of political cards in keeping with the election year.

Critters is also a big supporter of Mommy entrepreneurs. They have several lines such as eVre Wares, Sniffle Buddies, Lumy Bows, Chouette by Cosette, Pouch Pals, Lola, and WysiWipe to name a few. Most of these are manufactured in the USA!

You can almost bet once you start looking around at Critters you will find that perfect gift. The best part is they offer complimentary giftwrap for purchases over $10. Starting in September, Critters will have a Wall of Giving. They will be inviting all local schools in La Crescenta, Montrose and Glendale to participate. When a customer comes in to make a purchase, they mention the school they support, and that school will receive 10% of the purchase! They will be mailing checks to the schools quarterly!

Now about the new owners: Jack and Christine Aroyan have been married for 12 years and have two children, Andre, 10, and Sophia, 6. Christine is a teacher for Glendale Unified, and Jack is  an entrepreneur. Christine was born and raised in California and Jack was raised in Sweden. Both are very excited about the opportunity to own Critters and be an integral part of the Montrose Shopping Park.

Check them out on Facebook as well as their website www.crittersmontrose.com. Even better, stop in. They are open seven days a week and are waiting for you.

Mary Dawson serves as vice president for the MSPA board. She and her family own
Revelation Tops and
Mountain Rose Gifts.

  Mary Dawson