Shop the MPAEF Chic Boutique at Allied Arts on Friday to support local schools

Tonight kicked off the MPAEF’s annual holiday boutique, this year appropriately dubbed the Chic Boutique with its smart and stylish gifts for all ages and budgets. Twenty local vendors including many InMenlo favorites are featured at the boutique, which continues until 2:30 pm tomorrow and is free and open to the community. The fourth annual event is a fundraiser of the Menlo Park-Atherton Education Foundation (MPAEF), and a percentage of proceeds go to support Encinal, Laurel, Oak Knoll, and Hillview schools.

Appropriately, several of the businesses at the boutique are owned by district parents, including must-have jewelry from Janet Falkner Designers and m&m bling, which offer beautiful and contemporary holiday sparkle in a range of prices (bracelets pictured above).  Also don’t miss the Festive Table, which is offering its popular baking mixes as well as new items like make-your-own-lunch kits and birthday parties in a box. Or at Jac o’ Lyn Murphy you can stock up on personalized stationary, gift tags, and other holiday gifts.

Cocoa Crayon is another bright spot, with chic and festive wares for both kids and adults. The bright selection of French Bull melamine platters and servers were clear favorites. You also won’t want to miss Kasumisou Gallery (co-owner Claire Warner pictured above), which features home décor from artists and traditional craftsmen, including a selection of frames and bowls. Or shop for yourself at Flutter and get help selecting the perfect pair of stylish frames for your reading or prescription glasses.

Finally, indulge your holiday sweet tooth with goodies from Angel Heart or specialty chocolatier Poco Dolce. For a complete list of vendors, see the list here.

The MPAEF Chic Boutique runs from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm on Friday, November 22 at Allied Arts Guild, 75 Arbor Road, Menlo Park.

Photos by Linda Hubbard