Buy Brooklyn Merchandise With a Maker in Mind

Looking for a Brooklyn souvenir that’s more than just a logo? The Brooklyn Made Store at City Point is your best bet for gifts and keepsakes that actually reflect the borough’s creative energy—if you know how to shop it.

Instead of grabbing the first Brooklyn-branded mug, take a few minutes to browse by maker, neighborhood, or recipient. You’ll find more meaningful options and a better story to tell when you give or keep your find.

What Sets Brooklyn Made Store Apart

The Brooklyn Made Store, located on the ground floor of City Point at 445 Albee Square West, is an initiative of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. Its mission is to showcase products and brands conceived and created in Brooklyn, with a focus on supporting makers from communities of color. According to Brooklyn Org, the shop serves as both a retail and community space for local creators. Unlike generic souvenir shops, this spot curates its shelves with goods that highlight the borough’s diversity and talent.

How to Tell What’s Truly Brooklyn-Made

Not every item with a Brooklyn label is made locally. To make sure you’re supporting a real Brooklyn maker, check for maker cards, tags, or production notes on the packaging. Many products include information about the creator, their neighborhood, and sometimes even their process or materials. If you’re unsure, ask a staff member for details. Keep in mind that while the store prioritizes locally conceived and created products, not every component of every item is guaranteed to be manufactured in Brooklyn.

Shopping by Recipient and Budget

Browsing every shelf can be overwhelming, especially with categories ranging from apparel and art to food, bath, and home goods. Instead, start with your recipient in mind:

• Host Gift: Look for small-batch candles, kitchen towels, or a set of locally made coasters. These are easy to transport and suit a range of tastes.
• Edible Gift: The food and drink section often features Brooklyn-made chocolates, jams, or spice blends. Double-check for ingredient lists if allergies are a concern, and consider how perishable items will travel.
• Practical Keepsake: Tote bags, mugs, or notebooks with a maker’s story attached make for useful, memorable gifts.
• Borough-Branded Item: If you want something with "Brooklyn" front and center, look for items that also highlight the maker or neighborhood—this adds authenticity and a personal touch.

Setting a budget before you shop can also help narrow your choices. Prices vary widely, so ask staff for suggestions within your range.

Building a Multi-Maker Gift Basket

If you want to give a gift that tells a bigger Brooklyn story, consider assembling a basket with items from several makers or neighborhoods. For example, pair a Red Hook-made hot sauce with a Bed-Stuy artist’s print and a Park Slope candle. This approach works well for housewarmings, thank-yous, or group gifts, and it’s a way to support multiple local businesses at once.

Navigating City Point and Accessibility

Brooklyn Made Store is on the ground floor of City Point, a large shopping and dining complex in Downtown Brooklyn. The building is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout. If you’re coming by subway, the Dekalb Avenue station (B, Q, R lines) is closest, and several bus routes stop nearby. City Point’s main entrance is at 445 Albee Square West; look for signage or ask security for directions to the store.

If you’re driving, there’s a parking garage on-site, but rates and availability can change. City Point can get busy, especially on weekends, so plan for extra time if you’re visiting during peak hours.

Shipping, Returns, and Transport Tips

If you’re buying fragile or perishable items, ask staff about packaging options for safe transport. Some products may be available for shipping directly from the store or maker—check at checkout for current options and costs. Return policies can change, so review the latest rules before you buy, especially for food or personal care items.

For travelers, consider how you’ll pack breakables or liquids. Tote bags and small merchandise like pins or stickers are easy to carry, while candles, ceramics, or food may need extra padding. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, read labels carefully or ask for ingredient information.

Events and Changing Stock

Brooklyn Made Store sometimes hosts maker pop-ups, workshops, or community events. These can be a good way to meet creators and learn more about their work. Event schedules, stock, and featured makers change regularly, so check the official website or call ahead if you’re looking for something specific.

Before you go

• Double-check store hours at brooklynmadestore.com before your visit, as they can change.
• Not every item is fully made in Brooklyn—read maker cards and ask questions.
• Shopping by recipient and budget saves time and leads to more meaningful gifts.
• City Point is accessible by subway, bus, and car, with elevators and ramps available.
• For fragile or perishable items, ask about packaging or shipping options.
• Return policies, events, and stock can change—verify details before you buy.

With a little planning, Brooklyn Made Store can help you find gifts that truly reflect the borough’s creative spirit—no generic souvenirs required.