108 S 13th Street combines two businesses – Verde, specializing in women’s jewelry, gifts and accessories, and Marcie Blaine Artisanal Chocolates, made in-store by the renowned chocolatier of the same name. It’s a fun, colorful shop, with plenty of unique gifts for your home, closet, best friend and taste buds.

What I like about Verde is that I can walk away with a gift for pretty much anyone, because if candles, scarves or jewelry aren’t your thing, everyone loves chocolates! Marcie Blaine chocolates can be found all over the city, in places like Reading Terminal and some of Philly’s best restaurants, but here they are handmade fresh in the studio kitchen in the back. Inspired by Mexican and Mediterranean flavors, the chefs of course use all-local cream and butter as well as seasonal ingredients to keep everything relevant and fresh. 

My personal favorite is the Hot Lolita, featuring chilies and almonds, and the Moroccan, with fig and cardamom. The chocolates and truffles make a great Philly-themed gift because many feature iconic designs of the skyline, the Love Statue, and other landmarks. Keep an eye out for seasonal chocolates via this link. There are also plenty of chic souvenirs like prints, clothing and home goods.

While the store can run a little pricey, there’s a wide range of prices as well as items on sale, and your gift shopping has become that much easier! If you’re looking for dinner, you can’t go wrong with any restaurant along 13th.