Clever Mink’s

This place closed a year ago in 2013. I‘m not sure how clever it was to tap into the ODD gift market. Especially in a neighbourhood with zero disposable income, charity soup kitchens, hobos and a mental patient outreach place, drug dealers, whores.

Whenever I walk into the doors at Clever Minks I am greeted not only by friendly and helpful service, but also by a variety of local and free-​trade goods. I can always find the perfect gift for anyone on my list, from my 5 year old, to my friends, to my grandma. She LOVED her scarf for her birthday!
The t-​shirts are always a hit!
I am also a huge hit at birthday parties when I come with the clever and hilarious cards I can find at Clever Minks. I had 8 weddings to attend last fall and the cards and gifts from the store were perfect.
Another great thing about this store is it is dog friendly. The owner is great when I bring in my pooch. It makes for a nice stop on our walks.
I am not sure «cutesy» would be the words to describe the store. I would choose eclectic and unique. Fair prices and quality goods. It is definitely worth a visit. I also love supporting a small, local business.

I had heard that Clever Mink’s had a bit of cult following in New Westminster, but I was underwhelmed. The store feels understocked even for its small size, and I can’t put my finger on why, but it lacked the power of surprise and delight I normally look for in a gift shop.
They have the usual sorts of things — candles, greeting cards, toys, little novelties such as funny magnets, and tea — but I just wasn’t feeling it. Maybe stuff was too cutesy? Your mileage may vary.
On the bright side, however, the service is cheerful, and whoever writes the website does a bang-​up job on droll humour.
Clever Mink’s is worth a visit if you’re in the area (just around the corner from Douglas College and a block from the courthouse), but not a destination.