Heather's Store Closing Its Doors

If you’ve ever shopped at , directly across the street from Trader Joe’s on Colorado Boulevard, you’d know that this old-fashioned Eagle Rock destination sells things impossible to find at the average mall.

From exquisitely handcrafted baskets, glassware and stationery to clothing, beauty products and home décor, Heather’s Store specializes in merchandise that’s on the opposite end—geographically as well as metaphorically—from or just about any shop at .

Come Friday, Eagle Rock will have one less store that sets our neighborhood apart from such big-city shopping areas as Glendale and Pasadena. After seven years of being in business, Heather’s Store will cease to exist.

The economy continues to be a slog for the store’s enterprising owner, Heather Strauss, and shutting down has long been overdue. “If I were a smart business person,” she explains, “I’d have closed two years ago.”

It’s a sad decision for someone who has “small business” in her blood. Heather's role model was her grandfather (see photo above), a self-made entrepreneur who owned a highly successful liquor store opposite the train station in Westport, CT. “Other girls played ‘house’—I played ‘store,’” recalls the one-time fashion model who’s also a successful events coordinator in Hollywood.

“Fun Things, Happy Life,” were the words Heather chose to describe her business. Today, Thursday, is the last day to get some great deals on what’s left over at Heather's, including an antique glass cabinet for just $50 and numerous items for $5 or less.

And if you love Heather’s custom-made gift baskets—the kind that can be “recycled” with great style long after someone’s birthday or anniversary—the good news is that they will continue to be available on her website, heathersstore.com. Heather can also be reached by e-mail at info@heathersstore.com and through her facebook page.

Farewell, Heather—and kudos for persevering as long as you did.

This story is part of Patch's nationwide series " Tell us what issues and what stories in Eagle Rock go to the heart of your American Dream. Please contact editor Ajay Singh at ajay.singh@patch.com.

Editor's Note: Heather's grandfather's store was in Westport, CT. (An earlier version of this story said it was in Bridgeport, CT.)