Nathan & Co.

If it’s legendary gift giver status you seek, head on over to Nathan & Co. on Piedmont Avenue and peruse their whimsical wares.

Packed from the floor to the rafters with eclectic and kitschy goodies, this is the spot to find those seemingly one-of-a-kind gifts that no-one already owns. From magic garden kits to CBD hand sanitizer, "I hella love oakland" onesies to cocktail chemistry sets, and books ranging from How to be a Citizen to Taxi Driver Wisdom, there’s literally a gift to be found for anyone. Plus they have the dang cutest gift wrapping that Oakland has ever seen!

The goods at Nathan & Co

Nathan, Owner

What were you doing before opening your shop? 
I've always had a love-affair with retail. And, I've always been in retail. I started my career in retail advertising and marketing. I then moved on to product development for major retailers throughout the United States and traveled extensively developing product. While all of this proved successful and was fun and exciting - there was one thing missing in my career. Since being a kid - I had always wanted my very own little shop. So - in 2006 - I took the leap into being a merchant and I've never looked back. I love being a part of Oakland's DNA. I love being the first stop for gift hunting trips for others or yourself.

What led you to open it – what was your vision? 
Stores that have lots of nooks filled with goodies always intrigue me. We're not ever going to be the store with an empty table top, a vase and a stack of three books. Although I love that look - it's just not my thing. We love little things that make home, your life, a friend's life a little nicer and a little more stylish.

How has your shop evolved since then?
In the beginning we were more home oriented. And - although we are still home bodies at heart and love stylish environments - our shops have evolved into lots of categories - like jewelry, kids and baby, fashion and kitchenwares.

What are your favorite items in the shop?
With my background in product development - I love collaborating with artists and designers. You take that background and a huge crush on Oakland and products just sort of happen. We love designing kitchen towels, aprons, t-shirts, dishware all with an Oakland vibe and point of view.

Why did you choose to open in Oakland?
Did I mention a huge crush on Oakland? I love living and working in Oakland. It's a city with a great vibe and the people. Oh, the people. We are a melting pot of vibrant personalities and backgrounds and this gives me energy and passion.

How long have you lived in the community?
Nearly 20 years.

What are you top 3 spots in the neighborhood?
Homestead on Piedmont Avenue for a beautiful food experience. Piedmont Grocery for a small town, organic shopping experience in the middle of the city. Brown Sugar Kitchen because shrimp and grits and fried chicken are must haves at least once in awhile.

Who would you most like to visit the shop and why?
Senator Kamala Harris! And...she's a customer already! So - my next choice is Michelle Obama! I would die if she walked in!

What's playing in the shop?
If I'm working - It's Al Green! Or Dolly Parton. Or Willie Nelson.

Your favorite quote:
"Nothing great was achieved without enthusiasm." Ralph Waldo Emerson