Just a year after moving to South Minneapolis, Inizio is closing. The 11-year-old gift store relocated from Calhoun Commons to 50th & Penn in Minneapolis, which seemed a risky proposition for a store that was always solid, but never a true destination like Patina or Bibelot. But once I saw the warm space, reinvigorated merchandise, and owner Patricia Hefferan’s enthusiasm for bringing a gift shopping to her own neighborhood, I thought 50th & Penn might finally have found a store that would stick. But even in an urban neighborhood, it’s tough to draw a crowd – especially during a long winter. I thought Hefferan was smart to post big signs inviting customers to park in the Broder’s lot, but even that, it seems, was not enough.

“This difficult decision was something I have been thinking about for a very long time,” Hefferan says. “I enjoyed the last year in the new location – I am glad I made the move. After 11 years, it simply feels like the right time in my life to close the store and move on to something new.”

Good thing Patina is rebuilding at 50th & Bryant.

As for Inizio, save 30 to 60 percent storewide, including spring arrivals. The store will remain open through April, if inventory lasts.