It is rather difficult to write this article because I am giving away my biggest timesaving secret ever.
Sarah’s Hallmark is not only a great place to buy cards, gifts, wrapping paper and collectibles, but there is a full-service U.S. Post Office contract station tucked away in the back of the store. You almost never have to wait more than a few minutes, if at all, to be served.
This station is not only a great alternative to standing in line at the Falcon Field Post Office, but it also is a one-stop shop for a quick and easy shopping and mailing experience. If you are one of those people who waits until the last minute to get that birthday, anniversary, hostess or holiday gift, you can run into Sarah’s Hallmark, pick out a great gift, get a bag or box for wrapping, select beautiful gift wrapping and bows, a perfect card, and then take it all to the post office in the back, and mail it right out. Done!
“We have complete postal services, supplies, flat-rate boxes and even do international shipping,” said Dee Babicke, owner, with husband, Jack, of the shop in the Basha’s Center at Higley and Brown roads. “We try to keep the wait to under 10 minutes, and we always have an extra employee available to serve the postal customers if it gets busy. It is a little more crowded during the holiday season, so we open two full-time postal terminals starting in November,” she continued. “And if the line gets really long, we might surprise our customers by handing out cookies or chocolates to make the wait more fun.”
Since this location is a Hallmark Gold Crown Store, this store owner is able to offer exclusive Hallmark items not available in other outlets. “More than half of our merchandise is in addition to our Hallmark lines,” said Dee. “We even have a fashion boutique with designer jewelry and handbags, and highlight Vera Bradley.”
The store also features Harley Davidson items, kids’ toys and books, Precious Moments and other collectibles, Southwestern-themed gifts, gourmet candies and coffees, as well as a huge assortment of holiday décor, ornaments and crèches. “There’s really something for everyone,” Dee stated.
Keepsake ornaments are a popular Hallmark tradition, and on Oct. 6 and 7, the store will debut this year’s new collection. Sarah’s Hallmark has its own special club for Keepsake collectors whose members receive special benefits on a variety of products available only to them.
The store is hosting a Keepsake Ornament Collector Club party on Thursday, Oct. 4, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the store, for Sarah’s Hallmark club members. Participants will discuss the new 2012 ornaments. Information will be shared regarding events happening in the store this holiday season. If you would like to join, membership is free, and refreshments will be served.
With Christmas on the way, Sarah’s Hallmark has planned a holiday open house for Nov. 10 and 11. Specials and discounts will be featured on many items throughout the store, including Christmas and holiday décor and gifts. The public is invited to come in to shop and do any mailing. Refreshments will be served.
According to Dee, the store has been a family affair for more than eight years. Their sons, Jack, Jr., and Christopher, help run the business, which includes three more Sarah’s Hallmark stores in Scottsdale, Chandler and a newly opened location in Casa Grande.
Sarah’s Hallmark is located at 1112 N. Higley Road. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Sunday. The postal station is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on weekdays; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturday. Last pick-up is at 3:45 p.m., on weekdays, and at 4 p.m., on Saturday. For more information, call (480) 981-8828.