THE SHOP
A Bellingham-based one-stop-shop for all things ‘gift,’ Swag is a woman-owned business dedicated to curating quality items fit for celebrating any occasion. Products span a plethora of categories, and Owner Danielle Starr strives to ensure each person who walks in the door can find the perfect item to suit their needs.
Photograph by Tristyn MacDonald
THE ATMOSPHERE
Although Swag moved to Fairhaven in early March, the original location was once a functioning apartment converted into a multi-room retail space. Customers enjoyed a cozy atmosphere, and were able to wander from room to room. Each one housed a wide selection of items fitting a different theme, such as home, clothing, baby, pet, barware, and kitchen.
Photograph by Tristyn MacDonald
Swag’s new storefront maintains a similar feel to its downtown Bellingham location. Converted from a chiropractic office, Swag continues to embody the same multi-room and multi-themed concept that customers have come to enjoy. If you were a fan of the old location, come visit Swag in Fairhaven! Though their address may have changed, the structure and heart of the business remains the same.
THE PEOPLE
Swag opened its doors in June 2024, though Starr conceptualized it in 2005 at the same time as her previous business, 4 Starrs. This clothing boutique, located in Fairhaven, led Starr to understand the value of gifts.
“It wasn’t until I did 4 Starrs that I realized that the gift market was what was floating the business. People were coming because they knew they could find something unique,” says Starr.
Photograph by Tristyn MacDonald
Starr decided to expand Swag beyond clothing, choosing to carry gifts spanning all budgets and fitting every occasion. Starr teamed up with business partner Renee Marr to make Swag a reality, and although the offerings may not be the same as her original business venture, the community Starr builds with customers is.
“I realized that I am the business, you know; the product can come and go and change, but I remember what you bought. I want to sell you something you want…I want you to look good and feel good because it makes me look good and feel good,” says Starr.
Photograph by Tristyn MacDonald
WHAT YOU’LL FIND
If you are in need of something special, whether to give or keep for yourself, chances are Swag has you covered. Handmade jewelry, local goods, candles, pillows, woven baskets, wine glasses, sunglasses, clothing, novelty books, cards, artwork, stuffies, and much more line every wall and shelf.
Photograph by Tristyn MacDonald
When purchasing something from Swag, you can be assured that each item is chosen intentionally, with quality and novelty in mind. Starr picks items with her Bellingham clientele in the forefront, paying attention to qualities such as sourcing, aesthetic, and texture. Finally, Starr ensures that the products Swag carries are unique and well-made—they are not ‘fast fashion,’ or ‘fast gifting,’ as she calls it.
Photograph by Tristyn MacDonald
FAVORITES
Starr’s favorite items include France Lux hair ties, which are priced at only $1.50, the cards she carries, and the artwork listed for sale around the store. I enjoyed the selection of handmade jewelry, specifically the spoon rings made by Birch Bay business Aqualescent. If you are looking for a gift, head on over to Swag at their new Fairhaven storefront, and see for yourself all the items they have in store!
901 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.389.1203, Instagram @swag_giftbham
