After more than three decades at San Antonio’s Historic Market Square, longtime gift shop Los Pueblitos is set to close this weekend.
Founded in 1994 by owner Edali Hernandez, 72, Los Pueblitos became known for its selection of Talavera pottery, handcrafted jewelry, traditional Mexican folk art and clothing.
For Hernandez, the shop was more than a gift store. It was a way to honor her Mexican heritage while building a new life in San Antonio.
Born and raised in Mexico City, Hernandez moved to the United States on an L-1 visa with her husband and two daughters, bringing her business with her before opening Los Pueblitos at Historic Market Square.
Hernandez told KSAT 12 that growing concerns about crime prompted her family to leave Mexico.
“We were successful there, but we started feeling that the crime was coming,” she said.
Over the years, Hernandez said she built a loyal customer base by personally selecting the shop’s inventory.
“I have very good customers, and they love my merchandise,” she said.
Although Hernandez is closing Los Pueblitos, she isn’t leaving retail entirely. She plans to continue her wholesale business while scaling back to spend more time with her family.
“My life is going to be easier for me,” Hernandez said. “I have two grandsons, and I want to enjoy more to go to the games … and I want to be more closer to them.”
Los Pueblitos, 107 S. Concho St., will remain open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sunday. All in-store merchandise is 50% off.