City People's Sandpoint True Val

I was thrilled to discover City People’s several years ago as a non-chain resource for garden tools and other hardware. When, only a few years later, "True Value" appeared on their sign, I was devastated. However, there’s more to avoiding chains than keeping large corporations from running independent stores out of business; there’s also the personal aspect. If you simply can’t stand the soul-draining experience of shopping at Eagle and Home Depot, City People’s is a wonderful alternative. [Added after reading Latife’s review:] Clearly this store is not the answer for everyone! Admittedly, I haven’t shopped here in several months, but I know exactly what Latife means about the kind of staff that frowns on your every move. I’m sorry to hear about this and only hope these employees will be replaced by others who make the customers feel more welcome—or else by a management that provides an atmosphere in which employees and customers are all much happier. more

True, City People has some interesting inventory and lots of great plants (especially the Madison Street location), but the surly staff finally drove me out for good. Whether I was parking, paying, or browsing, the staff always managed to make me feel like I was doing something wrong. And I'm not really thin-skinned about service generally. I just don't go there any more. more

This is a go-to store if you're looking for anything from gardening to bathroom soaps. The store carries great non-hardware merchandise that would surprise many. The women's clothing section offers some great finds like cute summer flipflops and funky purses. Looking to decorate? Vintage posters, vintage luggage tags, an Asian-themed section, and many others can definitly give life to your home for very reasonable prices. Looking for a unique candy to top a gift? Even theyre register candy section has many interesting, European brands of chocolates, jellies, etc. Definitly take the time to stroll around this everything-store... you'll find inspiration in every corner. more

The place to go in Laurelhurst for upscale homey gifts. Kind of pricey, but good quality and an eclectic mix of stuff including womens clothing, furniture, a small nursery and even an embedded Tru-Value Hardware in the back (weird, I know). Some tasty little unusual chocolates and nibbles by the registers are a nice touch. It's easy to spend too much here! more