Small Businesses to Visit in Oklahoma City

“Books n books” By EternalEtulf licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Small businesses are the backbone of our great country. From coast to coast, small business owners strive to share their passions with everyone. Oklahoma City is no exception, with plenty of unique, locally owned businesses for you and your family to explore. They range from local bookstores that host signing events to quirky gift shops filled with wonders from around the world. Let’s look at a few local stores to see what they have to offer our community. 

Black Scintilla

Rachael Gruntmeir opened her fantastic boutique, Black Scintilla, in 2015. The young entrepreneur had always dreamed of owning a creative space where she could express her interior design skills and share her eye for fashion. So, after years of education and traveling the world, she came home to Oklahoma City and opened Black Scintilla, a shop that certainly shows off her passions. 

Black Scintilla has a little something for everyone. Rachael prides herself and her store on the idea that everyone deserves to look and feel their best, no matter their budget or body. Black Scintilla sells clothing for women from sizes small to 3XL at reasonable prices. The boutique also offers free hemming alterations and personal styling packages to ensure your new clothes make you feel great. 

Don’t forget to check out the collection of home goods and pet accessories. With an interior design degree to her name, Rachael keeps up with the latest household trends and designs. Spruce up your kitchen with fun drink ware and new tea towels, add a level of decadence with a luxury candle, or bring your dog to pick out a new collar. This dog-friendly shop is a must-visit.

Plenty Mercantile

Plenty Mercantile opened in 2011 after the owners realized Oklahoma City lacked a sustainable place to shop. The crew quickly got down to it, working with a variety of charities and communities to create a space that allows consumers to shop smart while giving back to the community and the world. Plenty Mercantile’s mission is to “champion sustainability and hospitality by mindfully sourcing refined goods and fostering memorable gatherings. We use responsible design to deepen our connection to the environment and to each other.”

One of the store’s biggest draws is its zero-waste products. Making sustainable shopping choices and going “zero-waste” can be overwhelming, so having a store and staff to guide you is incredibly helpful. Explore eco-friendly items such as refillable window cleaners and beeswax wraps. Plenty Mercantile even has a bulk refill station for the things you use regularly, including hand soap, floor cleaner, body wash, and laundry detergent. 

Even if you aren’t looking to take the plunge into total sustainability, the store has much to offer. Science experiment kits and historical construction sets make unique gifts for the kids. Treat yourself to delightful bath bombs and scented candles. The mercantile even has items for pets, such as cute toys and stylish collars. The big yellow doors are open every morning, so stop by to see what treats are in store.

Full Circle Books

Full Circle Books has been an Oklahoma City staple since 1970. First founded by Mark McGee, the bookstore tells a tale of resilience and growth. Even though it has been through catastrophic fires, experienced multiple moves, and has faced big-box competition, the shop is still thriving 50 years later. The small business is rich in history and has much to offer. 

When you first arrive at Full Circle, you will meet Pearl the Buffalo. Pearl is not only the symbol of the shop, but also the spokeswoman for Full Circle’s collection of books about Oklahoma. The pearl-covered buffalo sculpture was one of 100 created in concert with the Oklahoma Nature Conservancy but the only one covered in pearls. She is truly a one-of-a-kind sight to behold and a great photo op for visitors to the shop. 

Inside, Full Circle’s walls are covered floor to ceiling in books. The bookstore almost looks like it’s out of a fairytale, with its 13-foot bookcases, rolling ladders, cozy seating arrangements, and inviting wood-burning fireplaces. The more than 60,000 titles from nearly every genre means Full Circle has something for everyone to enjoy. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to help you find the right book. Swing by the in-house cafe for a warm cup of coffee before you leave. 

Craig’s Emporium

Before you set foot in this store, you will know you are about to enter a magical space. Craig’s Emporium is painted like a rainbow and stands out magnificently from the surrounding shops with a sign that reads “The Most Magical Place in Oklahoma.” As you walk through the doors, you will be met with bubbling fountains, gentle incense, and soft music drifting through the space.

The store is quite literally filled to the ceiling with nearly 100,000 unusual items, from Carol Baskin ornaments to handmade soaps to eclectic clothes. You’re sure to find something new every time you visit. Even if you don’t buy anything, exploring the 7,000-square-foot space is an adventure of its own. If you feel lost, simply ask a staff member for help.

While at Craig’s Emporium, check out the tarot reading services. The readers are incredibly knowledgeable, and the readings are fun experiences. Don’t forget to ask about upcoming events as well. The Emporium hosts a number of social gatherings, including monthly full moon ceremonies and special sales events. This place is truly magical, and you are bound to find something you didn’t know you needed. 

Oklahoma City is home to many fantastic small businesses. The hard work and passion each business owner puts into their store is inspiring, and making a visit or sharing the word with your friends are both easy ways to support them. That is why Eskridge Lexus is here to share these amazing spaces with you. Did we miss your favorite Oklahoma City small business? Drop us a line and let us know so we can spread the word and see the city grow.