Sunshine Award Winner: Pixie’s General Store

By Kristen Hampshire

This whimsical store serves as a hub for giving in Ojai, California.

Pixie’s General Store in Ojai, California, is more than a whimsical stop for kids’ crafts, fairy trinkets, nostalgic gifts and locally made goods — it has become a hub for community giving and connection.


Owner Whitney Hartmann, a longtime local photographer, purchased the store in 2019 with a vision to build on its playful roots while opening the doors wider to her neighbors.


“People want to help, and they appreciate knowing the proceeds are going to a deserving nonprofit.” — Whitney Hartmann, Owner


Soon after, she began hosting themed fundraising events where local nonprofits could “take over” the shop for an evening.


“It’s not just shopping, it’s a full event with food, flowers, raffles and community spirit,” she says.



Pixie’s General Store shows off its cute Ojai name-drop merch.
Photos: Jessica Claire

Shopping for a cause

Pixie’s General Store has invited a variety of groups to host fundraising events, from high school clubs to women’s shelters, sports teams and international service trips. Organizations earn 20% of sales during their fundraising event.


Pixie’s also organizes an annual holiday wish tree, adopting local families and gathering gifts to brighten the season.


“People want to help, and they appreciate knowing the proceeds are going to a deserving nonprofit,” Hartmann says.



A ray of hope

When fires devastated Southern California, Pixie’s coordinated the shop’s Tote Bag Project, collecting care bags for displaced families. The store also provides free community fun, offering free sno-cones on the Fourth of July and hosting themed crafting events for kids.


“I’m just doing the things I love and feel are important — and if others follow their hearts, we can make an impact without even trying,” Hartmann says.




Sunshine Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through
charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.sgnmag.com/sunshine-award.