Searching for wedding gifts can be a pain.

[_predilection]

Yesterday, Chris and I searched for a wedding gift for Jen Tan, whose wedding we are attending in Lake Tahoe soon. Although there is an abundance of fine gift stores in Englewood, we purchased nothing. There were many delightful objects we encountered - a Lazy Susan inlaid with a mosaic of a Southwestern-inspired sun; hand-painted picture frames made in Vietnam; glass sculptures of eyes said to ward off the evil eye; and a stunning glass plate embedded with a mosaic dragonfly. The last item we saw in Ophir Antique Store, a discreet store with bars on the door. Discreet and barred with good reason, too: the place was a treasure-trove of antiques from the 1900s, specializing in Tiffany objects. It was two floors of tastefully-arranged furniture, sculpture, and lamps. We had to be buzzed-in by the owner, who was in the middle of a photo shoot of a cushioned, high-backed chair. I saw the dragonfly plate in a glass shelf; however, no price tag was seen, and at the risk of being called "gaudy" by the owner, I didn't ask. After all, the other items in the glass shelf had an impressive price range of $1,000 - $36,000. Chris provided me with a graceful exit ("Sleep on it") and although I was relieved as soon as we stepped out, I couldn't help but wish I was more familiar with objects of quality.

I considered getting the hand-painted Mexican mirror from Encke Flowers but decided that my $85 could go to something more...useful? Attractive? I don't even know Jen's taste in decor. In the end, Chris and I decided to get them a gift from Lake Tahoe. Hopefully we can find a great little shop supporting local artists.