If searching for a someone who will paint some cool graphic on stuff, look no further than Art Monster. Specializing in custom tattoos and airbrushing, these talented designers and artists can create a masterpiece on a t-shirt, a motorcycle, or even your own arm. Also offered are pre-printed projects, posters, piercing and jewelry. The Art Monster staff are very professional, following all the health and safety standards a top tattoo parlor would need to follow to ensure clients' comfort and safety. The creations are one of a kind conversation pieces. If considering making a new artistic expression and need a little assistance, stop by and visit Art Monster on Cherokee street. -Cathryn D. Blue

Located on artsy Cherokee street, Peridot is a great place to get hold of an assortment of craft and art goods from local artists. Their stock includes all the simple things: some clothing, picture frames, pottery, jewelry, hair ornaments, and prints. The women who run the shop are clearly excited to be there. They enjoy every little trinket that comes through their doors and love sharing with their customers. Peridot's charm lies in the tender love placed into the items. Everything is hand made and unique. Stop by for a gift, a souvenir, or to browse for inspiration. -Cathryn D. Blue

STL-Style is a one-stop shop for St. Louis City gear. Whether visiting from out of town or stopping by to get an emblem of neighborhood pride from a local store, STL-Style has what you need. Representing every 'hood from Tower Grove East to the Central West End and all the way to East St. Louis, there's something for everyone. If it's not in stock, it can be created by a team of designers who specialize in making ideas real. Located in the historic Cherokee art and shopping district, this store is full of friendly faces and a good outlook on St. Louis culture. It's all about the art and it's all about the love. -Cathryn D. Blue

Southside Garden Stop looks like rough green space from the street. On the inside, this hole-in-the-wall growing pod holds everything an aspiring gardener needs to get a full blown urban garden off the ground: from seedlings and small plants to information needed to understand growing patterns, the best seasons for certain foods, and how to build a raised garden. The owner and staff are plant masters who champion using holistic gardening methods, including avoiding pesticides yet still keeping vermin at bay. Visit Southside Garden Stop in historic Benton Park and discover your green thumb. -Cathryn D. Blue

Kakao is more than just a chocolate vendor. It is an unforgettable experience. Specializing in fine confectionary delights, Kakao's romantic, flirty atmosphere is perfect for a first date, an anniversary, or a night out with friends. The rich chocolates and beverages are certainly a luxury and the staff is sure to create that magical experience that is characteristic of an elegant eatery, complete with creations by master chocolatiers. Their candies are made with natural ingredients and pure cocoa. Book Kakao for a function or just stop by on an evening and enjoy. -Cathryn D. Blue

For everything soccer, Gooolll is the place to be. This small soccer, futbol, calico, fussball supply vendor, located in the historic Cherokee shopping district, brings style, variety, and quality to patrons' soccer experience. Family owned and operated, Gooolll has a mission to serve the St. Louis metropolitan community with the best specialty soccer items this side of the Mississippi. Whether representing a favorite team or designing the perfect uniform, the staff can make the shopping experience pleasant, unique, and not too overwhelming. Stop by to browse and take in the ambiance or start planning your trip to the World Cup. -Cathryn D. Blue

The Archive is a great little resale bookstore, located at the mouth of the Cherokee business district in Benton Park. Quaint as it appears, this place packs a punch. The literature in the collection caters to the reader searching for something useful: poetry, politics, going green, spiritual cleansing, culture, and classic literature are some of the genres found on the shelves. The Archive features regular book signings, poetry readings, and small musical performances. There are also plenty tables and comfy chairs where patrons can relax and sample books before buying. Some have been known to read the entire book, take notes, and put it back in the stacks. It's best to budget beforehand because the high-quality selection of low priced reads can burn the pockets if not taken in moderation. -Cathryn D. Blue

City Grocers in downtown St. Louis meets all your requirements from sushi to soap. Fresh and organic produce from local farms, laundry detergent, espresso bar, pastries, etc. find it all here. A sandwich and salad counter, gift certificates, wine tastings, and catering are other features. Breakfast and lunch can also be ordered. Call for details.

Tiffany & Co. store located in the Plaza Frontenac, features some of the finest jewelry in the world. You will also find breathtaking crystal, flatware, chinaware, silverware, and timepieces for sale. Shop for engagement rings and anniversary presents, or something special for a newborn baby. Anything wrapped in Tiffany's signature blue box is sure to be considered an heirloom that the recipient will treasure for generations.

Visitors to the Gateway Arch should be sure to stop at this historical recreation of a 1870s general store. Located in the Visitor's Center on the Arch grounds, the Levee Mercantile features local foods popular in the late 19th Century. Clerks in period costumes sell vintage foodstuffs like kettle corn, milk chocolate, rock candy, breads, cheese and meats such as summer sausage and German bologna. The first project of its kind in any National Park Service facility, the Levee Mercantile is certainly an appetizing way to learn history.