Teapots, jewelry, fragrances, and cardigans. A great place to just browse for inspiration, Archetypes offers trendy home décor, body adornments, and lifestyle accessories with a peaceful theme. All of the items on stock are original and many are handcrafted around the world. There's plenty to see at this new boutique and the staff is very attentive and helpful. Not only will they answer questions about the inventory, they'll also help patrons find the types of things they need to establish feng shui in their lives. -Cathryn D. Blue

Anyone who has ever gotten customized framing for their favorite photograph, piece of art, newspaper clipping or stamp collection understands how much of a difference a frame makes. The Great Frame Up, located in Clayton, offers unique custom framing for all those old Michael Jackson posters and Van Gogh prints on-site. The frames offered are not limited to the traditional wooden rectangles with silver or gold trim. Textures, colors, and even shapes beyond the norm will fit the tastes of even the most eccentric art connoisseur. From round to 3-dimensional, the staff will accept any challenge and send you on your way with a masterpiece. - Cathryn D. Blue

Dick Blick Art Materials in Clayton is a good place to go for art supplies whether you know exactly what you're looking for or not. The staff is knowledgeable about the inventory because most of them are artists themselves. If artistic expression is a new endeavor, the Dick Blick team can get you off on the right foot. The store is ergonomic, browser-friendly, and prices are reasonable. With the incredibly large selection of art materials for almost every craft from ceramics to oil painting, anyone should be able to find what they're looking for. - Cathryn D. Blue

Since 1987, Clemens Violins, Violas, and Violoncellos has emerged as a leader in crafting and restoring the beauty of stringed instruments. Located near Washington University in the Clayton district, Clemens is a go-to place for musicians and students of music. Julia, the professional and skilled restorer, has been working with instruments for several years. It is usually best to call ahead for a quote and make an appointment if a specific restoration or instrument design project is in mind. However, if just browsing or curious about the crafting of violins, violas, violoncellos, and viols, the staff would be happy to have you. - Cathryn D. Blue

Photographers who have been around since 1947 know what they're doing. The exquisite team of Westrich Photography specializes in wedding, family, corporate, kids, groups and individual portraiture. Rob Westritch, the head photographer, is fun to work with and tries to make clients feel comfortable. The Westrich style is clean and elegant. Whether pictures are posed for or just " "caught during a candid moment, these photographers have an eye to capture the most beautiful possibilities. Photos can be taken either in the Clayton studio or on site. - Cathryn D. Blue

It's not a fancy place. There aren't any smoking rooms with leatherback chairs, specialty coffees or high-end magazines. It's a straight up and down cigar shop. Recognized as one of the best tobacconists in St. Louis by the Riverfront Times, J.R. Cigars is known throughout the city as the place to go for the widest range of specialty cigars, luxury cigarettes, and other smoking accessories. The shop is humidified, so cigars are displayed in open boxes. Novice smokers need not be ashamed. The tobacconists are laid back, knowledgeable, and can help anyone realize their cigar dreams. - Cathryn D. Blue

The Ron Busch Guitar Studio is all about bringing musicians together to jam. They offer classes in guitar, bass guitar, piano, keyboard, drums, and even vocal training. All are welcome, regardless of age or expertise. Tuition is relatively reasonable and includes all the sheet music and instruction to not only play the instrument, but also to perform. Recitals are a big part of the learning process with Ron Busch and the gang. At the end of a multi-week session, students perform in front of an audience to show off their new and/or improved musical skills. It's a serious place for serious musicians, but the fun to be had is astronomical. - Cathryn D. Blue

The bustling city of Clayton is full of unique finds. Tomsich Fine Art gallery is no exception. Tomsich curators carefully select artworks by 19- and 20-century American regionalist painters. The rare, unique and historic pieces can be enjoyed in the public gallery or purchased for amusement of a more clandestine nature. Bring in a treasured painting from a private collection and let the staff frame it with one of their beautiful, fine frames. If an old painting has been damaged, restoration is also offered. - Cathryn D. Blue

Jon's Pipe Shop, located in busy downtown Clayton, has the largest selection of premium cigars, pipes, tobaccos, and accessories in the area. Founded in the 1920s, Jon's has established itself as a haven for the persecuted smoker. Quality, value, and customer satisfaction are top priorities. These tobacconists really know their stuff; they can supply any tobacco-related information in up to 3 languages: Spanish, French and German.The atmosphere, which includes a smoking lounge fully equipped with the day's paper, is relaxing and accommodating. Stop by Jon's for a lesson in fine smokes or a leisurely sit-down with a pipe. - Cathryn D. Blue

Located in the huge Plaza Frontenac mall of St. Louis, Sam Cavato is a fine men's wear store that displays its own designs of formal apparel, casuals, sportswear and accessories like ties and cuff links. Other brands that grace the racks of Cavato are Canali, Ermenegildo Zegna and Ferragamo. Seasonal collections include sweaters and other woolen clothes. Call for more details.