Bobo Palm Springs: A Creative Hub for Indie Stationery Lovers

Palm Springs, California — Bobo Palm Springs, a vibrant stationery store located in the Flannery Exchange, is redefining retail for local creatives. Founded by Angie Chua, the shop offers a variety of stationery, journals, and paper goods, particularly from indie artists, and serves as a gathering place for artistic expression.

Since its opening, Bobo has captivated visitors with its ever-changing selection of items, including stickers and washi tapes. Chua, who is also an indie artist, established the store to support and uplift women of color and LGBTQ+ creators by providing them a platform to showcase their unique designs. “I wanted to tap into the vibrancy and the colors and the desert aesthetic,” Chua said.

The collection at Bobo refreshes weekly, introducing new small-batch drops of stationery for enthusiasts. Additionally, every Friday, the store transforms into a community hub, hosting free creative meetups that invite locals to journal or sketch in a relaxed environment. Chua noted, “People like to come into a store, hang out, and get to know the community.”

Residents of Greater Palm Springs also benefit from a 10 percent discount on purchases, further promoting local patronage. According to Chua, the store aims to rekindle a love for pen and paper, reminding people of the joys associated with handwritten correspondence. “There’s this nostalgia around it. Why don’t people send cards? Why don’t people write letters anymore?” she remarked.

The store’s most popular items include the Wanterlust Passports and a variety of stickers, both catering to the many travelers that pass through Palm Springs. “We sell more stickers than anything else. Our journals are also a big hit,” Chua added, showcasing the intersection of travel and stationery.

Bobo Palm Springs stands apart not just for its products but for its commitment to community. As Chua articulates, “I want them to feel like they’re seen.” This approach cultivates an inclusive atmosphere, especially for the LGBTQ+ community and women of color artists. Through Bobo Palm Springs, Chua hopes to provide opportunities that resonate with the same support she received early in her career.