Lark San Carlos Voted Best Gift Shop in San Mateo Area

In the photo: New owner of Lark, Eilish Lancaster, in front of the store.

Located at Laurel Street, Lark San Carlos has always felt as much a community as a store. Now, the community has spoken. In the 2025 Best of San Mateo Awards, launched just last year by the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce with over 22,000 participants, Lark was named Best Gift Shop in San Mateo Area. San Carlos Life had an interview with owner of Lark, Eilish Lancaster:

“Thank you! I was actually not aware of how big the voting numbers were, so that makes it even more awesome,” said the owner, beaming. “Lark is a small, community-focused store, but we are lucky to have a big set of local fans and supporters.” Once word got out that Lark was on the ballot, support came pouring in. She found out they won via phone call. “I was so nervous until I had it in writing. Did I dream it? Was it a scam? Thankfully I soon had the email to confirm!”

From Maker to Keeper

In the photo: Eilish at her desk in Lark

Lark was originally founded by Angela Kalayjian in October 2022. For Eilish, who describes herself as “a lifelong maker,” the journey began with a few leatherwork workshops at Lark in the fall of 2024. “That’s how I met Angela and learned she was looking toward a new chapter.”

It was serendipity. Already immersed in the maker community, she was deeply familiar with the shop’s values. “It was too good an opportunity to pass up,” she reflects. Today, she carries forward Angela’s vision while increasing the focus on local and handmade goods. “We have so many talented artisans locally,” she says, “and I’m also mindful that the economic situation is a factor for many. I work hard to carry great products at all price points.”

Behind the Shelves: The Artists of Lark

In the photo: Artist Suzanne Shah with Eilish.

In the photo: Artist Judi Eichler and her hand-painted jewelry collection

About 70% of Lark’s products are made by local artists. Many were brought in by founder Angela, but growth has been delightfully organic: artists often introduce each other. Eilish names two:

Suzanne Shah has been with Lark since its early days. Her unique designs and deep retail experience have been an invaluable foundation.

Then there’s Judi Eichler, whom Eilish met at a local holiday faire. Her hand-painted jewelry is both distinctive and accessible. “When I took over Lark, I sought her out because I love her work,” Eilish commented.

Lark will continue to focus on local goods. Interested artists/makers can reach out to larksancarlos.com

Community Moments and Challenges

In the photo: Eilish and Suzanna at the door to the workshop.

Eilish recalls one customer who recently shared how much they appreciated the variety of price points: “Beautiful things should not be exclusive,” she notes. Another memorable moment? When shoppers unexpectedly meet the artist behind their purchase. “It’s always a hero moment,” Eilish commented. 

Running Lark hasn’t been without its hurdles. “I’d say I’m still overcoming many challenges,” Eilish admits. But each one is met with curiosity, practicality, and heart. In an age of political, economic, and technological change, she’s committed to staying adaptive and grounded.

“Ultimately, this is about ensuring we meet customers’ needs and that people love coming to Lark regularly.”

Advice for Future Dreamers

For anyone looking to start a retail business, Eilish Lancaster’s advice is simple and honest: “Any project needs to be a mix of passion and practicality. Find something that speaks to you, and also maps to a reasonable business plan. Be ready to iterate and pivot.”

And with that, Lark continues to glow as a space stitched together by creativity, care, and community.

In the photo: Lark from inside.

For More News

For more of what’s happening in and around San Carlos, please visit San Carlos Life Blog

About San Carlos Life

Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are the co-owners of Vabrato, a real estate brokerage with over 30 years of combined experience, serving the City of Good Living and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.

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Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. He is also a long-time resident of Redwood City and San Carlos. Viv is also a Broker, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader, as well as a long-time San Carlos resident.

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