On an evening traditionally associated with bad luck, an eclectic retail shop in Old Pasadena is turning superstition on its head. Gold Bug, known for its curated collection of unusual art and jewelry, is hosting “A Spooky Soirée” on Friday, September 13.
The event, set for 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., will feature a trunk show opening event by New York-based jeweler Erica Molinari and performances by mentalist Mark Gibson.
It also marks the inaugural event for the shop’s new “Back Salon” space.
Erica Molinari’s collection, focused on charms and talismans, draws inspiration from Gothic, Medieval, and Victorian styles. Her pieces, crafted in gold, silver, and painted enamel, feature a range of motifs including animals, trees, skulls, crosses, lucky symbols, and poetry.
“The trunk show of talismans will run through the weekend, featuring hundreds of charms in an array of different sizes and materials,” said a spokesperson for Gold Bug.
The collection is designed to spark personal memories and be worn daily.
Adding an element of mystery to the evening, mentalist Mark Gibson will perform a series of free shows in the Back Salon.
Gibson, who has appeared on “The Tonight Show” and performed for thousands on luxury cruise liners, promises to “expose the cracks that exist in our reality.”
The shop is embracing the date’s superstitious associations, noting that more than 50% of people admit to being at least slightly superstitious. This fact is reflected in common beliefs about lucky pennies, black cats, and even the absence of 13th floor buttons in many elevators.
Named after the famous Edgar Allan Poe story, Gold Bug has been an enduring and eccentric fixture in Old Pasadena’s shopping district.
Just as Poe’s golden scarab led to buried treasure, Gold Bug aims to guide visitors to their own discoveries of “rare and unusual wonder.”
The shop features over 100 artists and is part of a 22-block area recognized on the National Register of Historic Districts, home to over 200 retail shops and 100 restaurants.
Visitors to the soirée are encouraged to “dress to impress,” with champagne being served throughout the evening. The event is open to the public and will take place at Gold Bug’s location on 38 E. Holly Street in Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 744-9963.
Old Pasadena offers convenient parking, with the first 2 hours costing only $1 in three Park & Walk Garages. The area is also easily accessible by public transportation, served by major bus lines and two Metro A Line stops.
Old Pasadena is the original downtown of Pasadena, home to the Tournament of Roses and located just ten miles from downtown Los Angeles.
