Walking into any business with only $10 in today’s economy may seem quite daunting and setting a hard limit with no exceptions is often hard to implement. The question of “what do I want?” quickly shifts to “what am I able to buy?” In Downtown Chico, there is quite a selection of items even when on a budget. Leaving with something tangible doesn’t have to be a rarity.
Melody Records, the local hotspot for music lovers, has plenty of options for $10 or less. Not only does it offer art, but something that speaks to one’s taste, personality and even spiritual connection.
The shop itself carries rows of crates willed with posters, vinyl and CDs. Right next door to Melody Records is Ital Imports, which offers much more for the spiritual enthusiasts, with a plethora of crystals and gemstones to choose from to create jewelry.
Posters: $7 to $10
Used CDs: $6 to $8
Used vinyl: $3 to $5
Gems, mood rings and charms: 40 cents to $4
Wallets, coin pouches and Chakra flags: $3 to $10
For the nostalgic folks looking to browse physical media, Gold City Vintage offers a variety of options for small purchases in which one can go back to a simpler time or just reflect on reconnecting to a show, movie or music they’d forgotten about. Many of the clothes in the shop range upward of $25, however, there are objects that carry the same memory for a smaller price.
DVDs and VHS: $3 to $5
Old tapes: $6
Vinyl: $5 to $10
CDs: $8
For those looking for a quick lunch on a budget, Bodega Corner Snack Bar, otherwise known as the Bodega Slice Shop, carries a student lunch option of a slice of pizza, a fountain drink and a side of ranch, all for under $8. Not only is this perfect for those trying to save their money, but it’s perfect for those looking to quickly get back to class given its close proximity to campus. This purchase under $10 is reliable, warm and filling.
Bootleg, a vintage shop, puts having a smaller budget to the test given the magnitude of items that are on the pricey side. However, given the change of season, there are now sales of just $10 for clothing and shoes happening throughout April and May. Rather than being restrictive with money, there’s an opportunity to build something unexpected from a quick turn around heading into summer. A perfect browse for the whimsical and fashion forward.
Clothing and shoes seasonal sale: $10
For dessert, Sweet Chico has every candy one can think of from the United States and Europe. It has an array of ice cream, as well as treats you can buy by the pound. With only $10, you’ll have enough to mix and match with a variety of nuts, sour candies and gummies being distributed by the bagful.
Individual treats: $5.99
Single scoop ice cream: Under $6
Bulk candy: $4.50 per quarter pound
Specialty sweets- Pasta chips, honeycomb, English toffee: $9 per quarter pound.
Nuts: $4.25 per quarter pound
While only having $10 to spend may feel limiting in the moment, it opens an opportunity for thought into what you truly feel you want to treat yourself with.
There’s a deeper purpose when spending a smaller amount of money rather than spending just because you can. In downtown there are plenty of opportunities to find something you’ll truly enjoy.
Bria Martinez can be reached at [email protected]
