Tucked inside one of Olean’s most storied downtown buildings, Christie’s Boutique has become a destination for shoppers who crave something special.
Something with character, heart, and local flair.
Since opening in 2017, owner Christie Brook has shaped her shop into more than a retail space.
It’s sort of a love letter to Olean, its history, and the creative energy of the people who call this region home.
A Mission Rooted in Community
Christie didn’t start her boutique simply to sell gifts. She also opened it as a way to uplift her home community.
“I believe in building up our community and giving back,” she shared. Olean “is a great place to live with awesome people, history, and architecture. My hope is that 119 Unique Things will encourage more people to see everything Olean has to offer.”
That sense of pride radiates through every shelf and display inside the store.
Visitors will find a curated mix of old and new, from handcrafted artwork by local makers to distinctive home décor pieces you won’t spot anywhere else. (See pics below!)
A Boutique Like No Other
While many shops carry gift items, Christie’s Boutique stands apart with its ultra-limited inventory, meaning you’re unlikely to find the same exact item in your neighbor’s home.
Every visit feels fresh, surprising, and intentional.
The boutique is also one of the few places you can find Calamityware, the delightfully quirky collection of “pretty at a distance, funny up close” dishware and accessories that has developed a cult following.
The shop constantly rotates in new finds, including art pieces, vintage items, handmade gifts, and themed bundles for every occasion.
Regulars often pop in just to see what Christie has discovered next.
A Winter Wonderland in Downtown Olean
Though the boutique sees steady foot traffic year-round, winter is when the shop truly shines.
Christie transforms the space into a full holiday wonderland this time of year, attracting locals and visitors who travel just to experience its festive charm.
This year, the season kicked off with a Wild Winter Open House in November. Watch for other events and happenings at Christie’s throughout the season.
A Destination for Travelers Near and Far
One of Christie’s favorite parts of running the boutique is meeting customers from across the country —and even around the world.
Travelers often stumble upon the shop while exploring Olean’s historic downtown and quickly become part of the boutique’s story.
“It’s not just one story,” Christie said. “It’s the many stories customers share about where they’re from and how they found our shop.
“I have had visitors from almost every state and a few different countries.”
A Building with a Past
History lovers will appreciate that Christie’s Boutique sits inside one of Olean’s oldest surviving commercial buildings at 119 N. Union St.
Originally constructed in 1864 after a devastating fire, the space once housed the FR Brothers Pharmacy, complete with beautifully preserved tin ceilings and handcrafted wooden pharmacy cabinets.
Legend has it that the building even served as a temporary home for the Exchange National Bank while its new headquarters was being constructed just down the street.
How to Support Christie’s Boutique
The best way to support this small business and others in the Southern Tier is simple: shop small.
Christie encourages both locals and visitors to explore Olean’s vibrant mix of eateries, boutiques, and historic sites …. and to uncover the gems that make the city shine.
You can learn more or follow along here:
- Website: 119UniqueThings.com
- Facebook: Christie’s Boutique 119
- Instagram: @119UniqueThings
No matter if you’re searching for the perfect gift, exploring Olean’s heritage, or just looking for a place that celebrates creativity and community, Christie’s Boutique is well worth the visit.
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