White Rose Eclectics: Handmade Goods and Local Art in Columbia

What White Rose Eclectics Offers

White Rose Eclectics is a gift shop in Columbia that carries handmade items, local art, and curated goods from independent makers. The store focuses on one-of-a-kind pieces rather than mass-produced inventory, so what you find changes regularly. You'll encounter jewelry, ceramics, prints, home décor, clothing, and items that don't fit neatly into any category—which is where the "eclectic" part comes in.

The shop prioritizes South Carolina artists and craftspeople, making it a place to find work you won't see in chain stores. Prices reflect the handmade nature of the goods, and the staff can usually tell you who made something and why they chose it for the store.

Key Takeaways

• White Rose Eclectics stocks handmade and locally made items, so inventory changes and pieces are often one-of-a-kind.
• The shop carries work from South Carolina artists across jewelry, ceramics, art, and home goods categories.
• Items are priced at the level of handmade goods, not mass-market retail, and the staff can connect you to the makers.
• The store works well for gifts when you want something with a story or connection to local makers rather than a standard retail purchase.

Types of Items You'll Find

Jewelry makes up a significant portion of the inventory—rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets in metals, beads, and mixed materials. Many pieces are made by jewelers based in the Midlands or Low Country. Ceramics and pottery appear regularly, from functional pieces like mugs and bowls to decorative work. Home décor includes wall art, prints, textiles, and smaller objects meant to sit on shelves or tables.

The clothing section tends toward independent designers and smaller makers rather than established brands. You might find hand-dyed fabrics, screen-printed shirts, or vintage pieces mixed with new work. Art prints—both framed and unframed—often feature South Carolina landscapes, Columbia landmarks, or designs by local illustrators. The "eclectic" label means the shop also carries items that defy easy sorting: candles, books, small sculptures, and seasonal goods.

Location and Hours

White Rose Eclectics is located in Columbia's downtown or midtown area, depending on current location. Before visiting, check the shop's social media or call ahead to confirm hours, as independent shops sometimes adjust their schedule seasonally or for special events. The store is typically open during standard retail hours on weekdays and Saturdays, with reduced or closed hours on Sundays.

Parking is usually available on the street or in nearby lots. The shop itself is small and browseable in 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend talking with staff about individual makers.

Shopping for Gifts

White Rose Eclectics works well if you're looking for a gift with a local connection or a story behind it. Because items are handmade, you can often ask the staff about the maker—where they're from, how long they've been working, what inspired a particular piece. That context makes the gift feel more personal than something from a big-box store.

The shop also accepts custom orders or commissions in some cases. If you have a specific idea—a particular color, size, or material—the staff may be able to connect you with a maker who can create it. Turnaround time and pricing depend on the maker and the complexity of the request.

Price Range and Budget Planning

Handmade goods cost more than factory-made equivalents, and prices at White Rose Eclectics reflect that reality. A ceramic mug might run $20 to $40, depending on the maker and complexity. Jewelry ranges widely—simple pieces might be $15 to $30, while more elaborate work can reach $100 or more. Art prints and home décor typically fall in the $15 to $75 range, though larger or framed pieces cost more.

If you're shopping on a tight budget, the store still has items under $15—small prints, candles, or simple jewelry. Asking the staff for recommendations in your price range is a reasonable approach, and they can often point you toward emerging makers whose work is priced lower than established artists.

Supporting Local Makers

Shopping at White Rose Eclectics means your money goes directly to the makers or to a small business that prioritizes local artists. Unlike chain gift shops that send profits to corporate headquarters, this store reinvests in the local creative community. Many of the makers whose work appears here also teach classes, show work in galleries, or participate in Columbia's First Friday art walks and other community events.

If you find a maker whose work you love, the staff can often provide information about where else to see their work or how to commission a piece directly. Some makers also have their own studios or social media accounts where you can follow their work over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return or exchange something if I change my mind?

Return and exchange policies vary by shop, so ask about the store's specific policy when you purchase. Many independent shops accept returns within a certain timeframe with a receipt, though handmade items may have different terms than other goods. Ask at the register what applies to your purchase.

Do you take custom orders or commissions?

Some makers represented at the shop do take custom work, and the staff can connect you with them if you have a specific request. Turnaround time and pricing depend on the maker. It's worth asking the staff what's possible—they know the makers personally and can tell you who might be interested in your project.

Are items gift-wrapped or packaged nicely?

Many independent shops offer simple gift wrapping or nice packaging, especially for items clearly intended as gifts. Ask when you check out whether wrapping is available and whether there's an additional cost. For items you're mailing, the staff can usually advise on safe packing.

How often does the inventory change?

Because items are handmade and often one-of-a-kind, inventory changes regularly—sometimes weekly, depending on how quickly makers produce new work. If you see something you love, it's worth buying it rather than waiting, since it may not be there next time you visit.

Can I find out more about a specific maker?

Yes. The staff at White Rose Eclectics know the makers whose work they carry and can tell you about their process, where they're based, and sometimes how to reach them directly. Many makers also have social media accounts or websites that the shop can point you toward.