Urban Indigo: Gift Giving Made Easy
photo courtesy of Brent Richardson
“Urban Indigo’s in Castro Valley?” I’ve heard that more than once when I mentioned this beautiful new gift store in Castro Valley. Owner Cynthia Bragdon has been in business 19 years, first in San Leandro at MacArthur and Estudillo and later in Oakland on Lakeshore Avenue. In 2022, she decided that Castro Valley was ready for her specialized boutique and set out to find a new location. Having lived in Castro Valley for the last 30 years, she knew it well and chose a storefront down the street from the Castro Valley Post Office at 20405 Santa Maria Avenue adjacent to the Village.
Open since February, Urban Indigo promises “gift giving made easy,” with gifts for all ages and needs. There is an extensive selection of hand-made jewelry, home accessories, and gift cards and has already garnered the 2023 Neighborhood FAVES nextdoor award!
Cynthia received her BFA from the California Academy of Arts, studying to be a graphic designer. Early on she was also a ceramicist, but it is retail that Cynthia loves. “This is the best job because I am always learning and meeting interesting people.” Talking to her about her store is like taking a marketing class. She explains that she buys for boomers AND millennials who have different tastes. Her customers ask for locally made and sustainable items and are cost conscious, always buying with care. Customers enjoy the Insider Loyalty Card that earns them $10 off purchases and the complimentary gift wrap. Each jewelry purchase comes with its own box. This summer, popular items are shower steamers, cake sparklers, Tiny heart candles, Jellycats, and the Buddha Board. Jewely is the number one seller!
One of the things that sets Urban Indigo apart is its gorgeous Display Window. The seasonal windows are the creations of Cynthia’s partner, Brent Richardson. Currently the window is adorned with giant sunflowers, butterflies and a field of wildflowers. When the shop opened there was a four-foot sailboat hanging in the window. The windows are particularly beautiful lit up at night. Multi-talented, Brent is a jazz musician, and his group often plays outside Urban Indigo on the weekend. Check out Instagram (@urbanindigo) for their schedule.
Cynthia offers personalized service at Urban Indigo Wednesday through Saturday from 12-5pm. Online service is available at urbanindigo.com