museums&MORE Spring 2015

Harlan Schenbaum

Comforts Gift Shop Manager Harlan Schenbaum
Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula
Monterey, California

MM: What makes your store unique?

Our hospital has been named one of the most beautiful in the world. We are in the Pebble Beach forest with ocean views from some areas. The building was designed by renowned architect Edward Durrell Stone and is recognized for its healing environment, which features water elements, extensive natural light and a large art collection. … We carry books and cards from local artists and authors, and items that foster the healing environment, including music, lotions, sleepwear and a large selection of orchids.”

MM: What is your retail background?

“I have been the gift shop supervisor/buyer for about four years now. I have been in the retail business for 35 years, in store management and as a men’s wear and gift buyer. … For all the many years in retail buying and management, this has been my most enjoyable job. I am treated very well and the administration/upper management always recognizes our gift sop in very positive and supportive ways.”

MM: What is the best retail advice you’ve ever gotten?

“The best advice I received and have always passed along is simple: The customer is always the No. 1 priority. We want to always fully take care of our customers so that they find what they want and have an enjoyable visit while doing so.”

MM: What are your best-sellers?

“(Our) best-selling items are our logo sweatshirts and jackets, Snoozies! slippers, Crislu jewelry, journals from Peter Pauper Press, wind chimes and garden items from Grasslands Road, travel latte mugs from Evergreen and talking plush (toys) from Gund and Cuddle Barn.”