The Merchant

Tucked into St Petersburg's Central Arts District, The Merchant combines nostalgia and urban lifestyle with an ever-changing selection of eclectic gifts and wares ranging from candles, small-batch soaps, T-shirts and novelties. Owners Kevin and Jennifer Schultz opened the apothecary-style "general store" in 2018 and feature goods made exclusively by local artisans and craftsmen. In addition to unusual hand-made gift items including baby gifts, treat yourself to a tasty selection of fudge, honey, chocolates, beer and Florida wines. If you happen to visit on weekends between Black Friday and Christmas, you'll be greeted to "Blizzard in the Burg," a snow machine outside the store, which will add snow flurries to your shopping experience. The Merchant will be one of only 17 shops represented at the new Pier when it opens in 2020.