Feeling sluggish? Have allergies? Just want a change in lifestyle? The Golden Grocer offers all the natural remedies one needs to obtain optimal health with a knowledgeable staff to help lead the way. Located in the bustling Central West End, Golden Grocer has become a trustworthy fixture in the neighborhood. All products are 100% natural and organic, from the herbal remedies to the desserts and produce. You'll find spices, herbs, and other goods that may not be available at larger health food chains. And if you're searching for something in particular, the staff will know how to get it. This small neighborhood grocer is a great place to learn and meet healthy minded people, so stop by and get healthy!

The Central West End is full of interesting destinations and Rag-O-Rama is no exception. Buy, sell, and trade trendy, vintage, and one-of-a-kind clothing items and accessories. 20-somethings gravitate to the wild styles and graphic tees but folks of all ages can find just about anything to accommodate edgy tastes. All sizes are available and range from itty bitty to voluptuous. The pierced, tattooed, Mohawk and pixie-cut wearing employees represent the targeted demographic well. It's not the Goodwill, so prices vary, the staff is very picky about what they buy, so the quality is high.

Located between the Central West End and the U City Loop, Legacy Books & Cafe is the everything place. The grill is always hot, even for vegans. Books are for sale, but if you wanted to bring a book and chill all day, no one would object. Legacy also hosts an open poetry reading spot. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and after visiting a couple times, everybody knows your name.

A friendly neighborhood deli, Macklind Avenue Deli has all the amenities of the local convenience store complete with the compassion of a local bakery. Fresh, homemade pastries and desserts are always available as well as a wide assortment of snacks and wines. The full deli offers homemade salads, pasta dishes, and can fashion a sandwich out of just about anything. The staff is quite familiar with the customers and the store has a family feel. Grab a bite for later, or enjoy a sandwich and drink on the sunny patio outside. -Cathryn D. Blue

Bling Boutique, LLC specializes in women's accessories and clothing. Located on historic Main Street in St. Charles, this small boutique is worth the stop. Carrying unique pieces of fine and costume jewelry, this boutique has exactly what's needed for the hipsters who like to stand out from the crowd. The staff is full of styling gurus who have eyes for the "look" that customers are craving. Find necklaces, bracelets, earrings, pendants, rings, barrettes, scarves, and countless other fashion accessories. A small selection of clothing is also available. Look good on any budget. -Cathryn D. Blue

The brainchild of a graphic designer, Belle Fleur Vignettes creates floral masterpieces with a unique style that are very natural, earthy, and have a signature of bold color and amazing texture. The mantra of this unique floral boutique is to "catch the moment with flowers." The owner pays special attention to each clients' needs, creating bouquets that fit customers' personal tastes, favorite color schemes, and the mood of the occasion. Belle Fleur can design floral vignettes for weddings, parties and showers, or a simple friendly "hello." Many designs come directly from the cutting garden, enabling clients to enjoy seasonal, fresh flowers. The prices aren't that bad either. -Cathryn D. Blue

The Bear Factory, located on the beautiful, historic Main Street in St. Charles, peaking out over the Missouri River, is no ordinary toy store. With an inventory of over 5000 novelty bears, handcrafted by local, national, and international artists, this store caters to the bear aficionado. These cute, cuddly bears are designed by the different artists to represent various cultures, celebration themes, periods in history, and even epic tales of Greek and Roman mythology. Besides the incredible display, The Bear factory enjoys interacting with their customers and shows it with incredible customer service and enthusiasm. Stop by to browse the selection or pick up bear-making supplies for a private bear-making agenda. Bear building classes are also available and make a great outing with the family. -Cathryn D. Blue

Got a special occasion coming up? Need a gift for the someone who has everything? Any Basket Under The Sun is a one stop shop for everything in thoughtful gifts. This independently owned basket crafting shop carries a variety of styles, colors, and decorations. The staff can fashion a basket for any type of occasion: weddings, baseball championships, grandma's birthday, you name it. Each basket is unique and specially made to fit the individual and the occasion. Prices of baskets vary based on what's inside, which can be supplied by the staff person or by the client. Baskets can be purchased in store or delivered, but allow for a 48 hour window between the order and the completion of an immaculate basket. -Cathryn D. Blue

Located in a 100-year-old brick house in the historic Frenchtown of St. Charles, 2nd Street Beads is everything the beader needs to get started and keep going. The friendly staff champions a hands-on approach to the art of customer service, instructing clients on the ins and outs of beading as well as allowing them to practice techniques before committing to a purchase. The consummate inventory of beads and supplies include precious and rare stones, as well as silver, gold, and crystal, and expert jewelry making equipment. The store also offers classes for beginner beaders; the classes enable those aspiring bead artists to learn about the craft, while also offering a fun way to spend an afternoon. Stop by the website to order online or stop in the store and enjoy the rustic, quaint atmosphere. -Cathryn D. Blue

Hammond's is a rare find. A charming shop on Cherokee Street, it specializes in books so old, you don't get them in snazzy bookstores no more. Art, culinary, drama, and fiction items share space with over 100,000 out-of-print books. What's more, if you think you don't need that library at home, get your copies here. Also check out the online music store to find music from oldies to electronica.