Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, Native Star Boutique is a vibrant and luxurious space dedicated to celebrating Native American culture, heritage, and artistry. Founded in May 2025 by Ruth-Ann Thorn, a tribal member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, the boutique offers a curated shopping experience that connects customers to the beauty and diversity of Indigenous creativity.
Thorn, a lifelong advocate for Native artists, envisioned a space where tradition meets high-end design—where every item on the shelf tells a story. Native Star Boutique is a cultural destination that uplifts the voices and talents of Indigenous artisans from across Indian Country.
The name “Native Star” was inspired by the celestial significance found in many Indigenous creation stories. Across Tribal nations, stars are seen as sacred symbols—guides, ancestors, and reminders of our connection to the universe. For Thorn, the name is also a nod to the artists themselves, who shine as “stars” through their work, carrying forward the stories and traditions of their people. Native Star Boutique honors these makers by offering a platform that celebrates authenticity, excellence, and cultural pride.
From one-of-a-kind jewelry and fashion pieces to custom-made hats, textiles, and fine art, Native Star Boutique is home to an extraordinary range of handcrafted items. Each product is selected for its cultural significance and artistic integrity, making the boutique a must-visit for anyone seeking meaningful gifts, art, or personal treasures.
The boutique also features a growing luxury gourmet food section, showcasing a variety of Native-made products that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Indigenous communities. These offerings are made possible through the boutique’s partnership with SweetGrass Trading Company.
The collaboration between Native Star Boutique and SweetGrass Trading Company is rooted in shared values: authenticity, sustainability, and a deep respect for Native traditions. By partnering with SweetGrass, Native Star is able to offer high-quality food items sourced directly from Native producers—bringing unique, delicious, and culturally significant products to customers in San Diego and beyond.
This partnership supports the broader mission of both companies: to uplift Native voices and ensure fair opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and artists. Every purchase from Native Star Boutique contributes to that mission, creating a ripple effect of impact across tribal communities.
“Our goal at Native Star Boutique is to create an inviting and educational atmosphere where visitors feel a strong connection to Native American culture,” Thorn said. “We want people to feel inspired, respected, and enlightened when they enter our shop. By fostering appreciation for Indigenous artistry and traditions, we aim to promote cultural awareness and understanding, encouraging customers to carry a piece of that experience with them.”
Learn more or plan your visit at native-star.com. Located at 631 5th Ave. in San Diego, Native Star Boutique welcomes all who wish to celebrate, support, and carry forward the brilliance of Native American creativity.