Razzbarry began in 1994 as a clothing boutique in the then developing Armory Square area of downtown Syracuse. Razzbarry was the first retail business in the newly built Center Armory. In those days, Razzbarry sold women’s clothing and just a small selection of accessories. One day a stranger walked into Razzbarry. He was tall, solidly built and dressed in bright pink tights, cape and a Lucha Libre mask. His voice was deep but not at all threatening as he said “Razzbarry has been chosen.” He looked around Razzbarry, crossed his arms on his chest, and nodded “Yes, Razzbarry is the one.” He went on to explain that Razzbarry, because of its colorful atmosphere and fun design had been chosen, over all the shops in Upstate New York, to become the destination for all things fun. “Lady who owns Razzbarry” he said “the people of your town need a place to buy unique gift items and home décor. You have been providing the ladies with fun things to wear. You must do more” With that he turned and walked out of Razzbarry, his pink cape flapping in the breeze.

Not wanting to defy the mysterious stranger, Razzbarry got right to it. That very day, gift items were added to the shop. Funny magnets, colorful light switch plates, funky lamps. All sold out immediately. Clearly the people of Syracuse WERE looking for a place to buy unique items! Razzbarry added more home décor and gifts. Painted boxes, bath products, vases, stationery, candles, lunchboxes, photo albums, string lights, toys, journals, picture frames, shower curtains, greeting cards. Anything that was fun, colorful or funky found it’s way onto the shelves at Razzbarry. And the people bought it all. Razzbarry also expanded it’s line of accessories and jewelry. And the people bought that too. Word spread throughout Syracuse, and the people began to go to Razzbarry for all of their gift giving occasions. To honor the mysterious stranger, Razzbarry added Mexican wrestling masks and Day of the Dead skeletons. Razzbarry is the only store in the area that carries Day of the Dead/Lucha Libre merchandise.

Thirteen years later, Razzbarry is still bringing fun, colorful and unique items to the people of Syracuse. New items are added every week. The mysterious stranger has not been seen again. We have named him El Razberio and we wait for his return……..