What if everything was lovely?
Popping into Good Day Shop, tucked between Humboldt Barber Shop and Tin Can Mailman used books off Arcata’s H Street, might provide the answer. In every direction and every corner of the tiny shop — and what spills over onto the little bench and racks out front — there’s something gently beautiful.
Work from some 50 local artists, artisans and makers is arranged in miniature tableaux from the lowest shelf to prints and collages reaching toward the ceiling. That you can sense the maker’s hand, eye and imagination in each item feels especially remarkable in a climate where we’re bombarded with AI dross and fast fashion. If you’re curious, ask owner Marta Lapczynski and she’ll tell you who made it, how they came to the area and what their intention was creating a ceramic vase, or where they gathered the found stones for a necklace.
It’s true of the tumble of soft, reversible hats and cotton blouses, too. Even the carefully curated second-hand clothes speak to a natural palette and playfulness. (To whoever scores the Galliano-yellow velvet tuxedo pants with the satin side stripe: Wear them in good health and much whimsy.)
Good Day Shop is an excellent place to find a gift for someone who notices small things. Your friend who stops to look at every leaf and mushroom on forest walks might appreciate the handmade glass or ceramic Banana Slugs on the shelves and mugs. The rack of cards in the back is stacked with local art, another thoughtful choice in favor of lovely things.
This article appears in Humboldt Insider Winter 2026.