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November 2023 by Aesha E.
What a lovely shop, with an even lovelier proprietor! I've been visiting metta baby down the street for the last few weeks, and when I've passed Virtu it piqued my interest. Today I was at metta baby for a CPR refresher so I finally had the opportunity to head down the block and check it out. The owner had opened it a few minutes early because when I got there at 10:58 (they open at 11) there were already a few people in and she joked that perhaps she should open at 10.She was super friendly with everyone in the store and very helpful. There were a couple folks with whom she was talking about the being a business owner (they were also business owners), and the business climate in Bucktown. She was joking around with some other customers about some funny cards that she carries. When I was looking at the various jewelry cases she has throughout the store, she let me know right away that if I wanted to see anything to let her know, and she told me about some of the designers that she had in her shop. I really enjoyed talking with her, and I'm almost ashamed I didn't get her name. Her passion for her business and local businesses in general, as well as her dedication to truly providing fantastic and thoughtful service to her customers was palpable. Virtu's proprietor is the epitome of why I LOVE to shop local; oftentimes people at mass merchandisers, whilst hard working and helpful, don't have the same sort of pride, flexibility, and ethos of care that a local business owner does.I visited a couple days before Halloween, and she mentioned that after the holiday she'd start putting out the Christmas merchandise which is already waiting to make its debut. I think she also mentioned that she has extended hours during the holiday season. I'm excited to stop in once she's in the holiday swing to see what I can find here for friends, loved ones (and who knows, maybe even myself), and maybe even something special for my little one's first Christmas.
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July 2023 by Joshua W.
The owner was very nice. Great selection of cards and a cool assortment of fun stuff for your house and gifts
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June 2023 by M M
Spoke to very rude lady who rushing me off the phone. Did not even want to help! Let’s not rush life cause you only get one.
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June 2023 by Alec Sandy
Wonderful selection of goods. Helpful and friendly proprietor.
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June 2023 by Marjorie Kersten
My go to spot for greeting cards for any occasion in the area. I love the variety of cards - different designs, different occasions, some funny while others are more simple/modern. Good prices too!
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May 2023 by Gary R.
Stopping in Virtu was the best thing I did at the start of my trip to Chicago. Not only did I find the perfect gift there, but I received tips on the best things to do and the best places to eat in the neighborhood, and in Chicago more generally. What a lovely store and what a great experience!
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April 2023 by Alison Mankowski
Just love this store so much—and always find great gifts and cards with the help of Julie the owner. She makes shopping fun!
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December 2022 by Roy Sims
I was looking for a cool gift shop because I am looking for something to give my friend on her birthday. She recommended me this shop, Virtu, and the moment I stepped in and saw the products on display, I realized why she chose to recommend this shop to me. This shop is filled with cute and artistic items which are perfect for gifts and souvenirs. Of course, I knew my friend, and I know she would love if I give her one of the jewelries here. So, I searched for the cutest and most beautiful necklace here which I think would best suit her. The owner here is very helpful and accommodating. I was able to find this necklace I have for my friend because of their help. I gave my friend the necklace and as I was expecting, she loved it! Thanks for making my friend happy on her special day, Virtu!
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December 2022 by Nicole van Haverbeke
Virtu is a neighborhood gem and Julie, the owner, curates an amazing selection of gifts! I have purchased many items from her through the years including; jewelry for birthdays, home goods and Chicago themed items as client house warming gifts, puzzles for family and on more than one occasion a special treat for myself! She also has a unique and fun selection of cards to accompany any gift. Make this hidden gem a destination when you are looking for that unique and thoughtful gift for someone special!
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December 2022 by Agate Alba
This is the nth time I've come here to buy gifts for my cousin's birthday, and I'm glad I did. Since this is my go-to shop anytime I want to buy something cute or a gift for someone special to me, I am already a regular customer. It's adorable. I came here just a few days ago to buy things for my baby love, and I couldn't resist.From the silly to the serious and everything in between, there's a present for every type of individual. This resembles a more upscale version of a department store's gift shop.The personnel is always willing to go out of their way to help. Is the atmosphere pleasant? YES! Definitely and it's also nice. The location is also easy to identify. The fact that it's so close to my current workplace means that I can come here after work. It's a must-see store. To anyone who happens to be reading this, I highly recommend you to give it a try.
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December 2022 by Jacob Vargas
It was through one of my friends that I discovered about this store, who had learnt that I was looking for a shop that sold cute and lovely gifts. So, I got here and was so glad that I had listened to her since there were numerous products on display, many of which were adorable! I was in heaven! I hoped my sister will like what I will give to her.There are jewelry, greeting cards, photos, and many more items. I bought jewelry for my sister because she enjoys collecting such accessories, and I was hoping she would like it as much as I did.Everything about this place is wonderful: the ambiance, the customer service, everything!The owner is also so kind who is incredibly accommodating. I also came upon an item for myself. So, the last time I came here, I purchased two goods. It's definitely worth a shot. Anyone should to try it out!
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December 2022 by Finley Burt
I super love coming to Virtu. I never get tired of browsing the various goods that are in display here. Because they have such a large selection of products, I was able to buy one or more products each visit I made in this shop. It is also an excellent place to shop for presents to give to other people. There is a wide variety of excellent gift options available that are sure to win the approval of the recipient of your presents. There are also other things such as jewelry, photocards, and cute gift cards. In addition to that, the atmosphere is very soothing and pleasant. Additionally, the staff is friendly and easy to approach. If you need assistance or help, you can be certain that they will come to you and help you as soon as possible. It is without a doubt highly recommended. This is the kind of place that all of you will absolutely adore.
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December 2022 by Stephanie Inverso
What a fantastic place!! We went in looking for a card for a friend who is ill. The owner was so kind and amazing, and helped us find the perfect card and gift. Will definitely be going back here anytime I need a card or gift!
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December 2022 by Matthew Gall
Great local store for personal items and gifts. The owner is extremely nice and she cares about the community, having been in the are for 15+ years.
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June 2022 by Finley B.
I super love coming to Virtu. I never get tired of browsing the various goods that are in display here. Because they have such a large selection of products, I was able to buy one or more products each visit I made in this shop. It is also an excellent place to shop for presents to give to other people. There is a wide variety of excellent gift options available that are sure to win the approval of the recipient of your presents. There are also other things such as jewelry, photocards, and cute gift cards. In addition to that, the atmosphere is very soothing and pleasant. Additionally, the staff is friendly and easy to approach. If you need assistance or help, you can be certain that they will come to you and help you as soon as possible. It is without a doubt highly recommended. This is the kind of place that all of you will absolutely adore.
