Unicorn Books and Gifts celebrates three years in business

Business partners Stacy Bart and Julia Dammeir will celebrate Unicorn Books and Gifts’ three-year anniversary with an open house party on Saturday, Jan. 24, from 5 to 8 p.m.

“What started out as the little funky shop with something for everyone has grown into a full-fledged bookstore and more,” Bart said in an email.

The celebration open house is planned “to thank everyone for making this not only a hub of the community, but proving that Ramona really does want a bookstore here,” she said.

Many shoppers believe in supporting the local economy.

“That is evident by the year after year growth of the shop and the resurgence of small businesses in the neighborhood,” said Bart.

Unicorn Books and Gifts started in a tiny storefront just east of Eighth Street but quickly outgrew the small space. After the first year, the shop easily filled the larger space at 738 Main St., adding more and more inventory and expanding the gifts, children’s and used book areas.

Unicorn Books and Gifts won the San Diego A list Best Bookstore for 2014 and is nominated for Business of the Year by the Ramona Chamber of Commerce.

While new patrons find the shop all the time, Bart said, she and Dammeir aspire to attract more local shoppers.

Here she gives a peek of what is inside:

“Nestled between antique shops in the heart of Old Town Ramona, Unicorn Books and Gifts doesn’t look like much from the outside. Open the door and you will be amazed at what you find.

“As you enter you encounter what you would expect from a well-stocked bookstore, tables and shelves neatly filled with new books. All latest new releases and best sellers lead into fun and interesting non-fiction and then some great books by local authors. Book lovers could easily spend some time browsing the selections of self help, health, Christian and religious books as well.”

The aroma of candles, tea and soap fill the air as customers peruse unique gifts, jewelry, imports and locally crafted fine art. Under a big green dragon lies the children’s area with pint-sized chairs and a table full of toys. Three walls lined with books and educational toys, and shelves set at 5 feet and below provide the youngest patrons a space just for them.

Grownups are invited to enjoy hot tea and comfortable couches amid vintage titles and good conversation space or wander through the thousands of used books from all genres.

“The metaphysical section has become a destination all its own,” said Bart. “Astrology, tarot and much more fill the shelves along with dragons, gargoyles and fairies. Beautiful silver jewelry, crystals and stones of all kinds line the counters and tables. There is always something new to find.”