– by Doreen Marion Gee –
Do you run out of gift ideas during the holidays? And wonder what will light up the face of that hard-to-buy-for person? The interesting shops at Mattick’s Farm have something unique and beautiful for everyone on your shopping list this year.
With its Scandinavian roots, The Ladybug Boutique offers unique traditional hand-made products imported from Europe. Michael reveals that they have the largest selection of candles in B.C. and “the odourless, smokeless and dripless selection imported from Denmark and Germany is complemented by beautiful hand-painted Lithuanian candles that will be sure to please your friends.”
Momease Baby Boutique carries one-of-a-kind delights for baby that will please any new mom. Adam and Lyra rave about their grey wicker “B.C. Baby Basket” that contains local hand-picked products: a pair of tiny leather moccasins, ‘teething’ jewelry made with safe-for-baby beads, little leggings, a stylish fabric bib and a bamboo muslin swaddling blanket.
How about your friends who want the “perfect” wine? The VQA Wine Shop at Mattick’s Farm specializes in BC VQA Wines, which are assessed to ensure that they meet quality requirements. The shop boasts an amazing selection of Estate wines. Beth is excited: “We also have a fabulous selection of wine-related giftware.”
For the sister who wants to turn heads, Sunday’s Snowflakes has alluring clothes from France, Denmark and Israel. Patty is proud of their stunning jewelry from both local artisans and designers in Europe. The trendy boutique has been making women look beautiful since 1981.
On a winter’s night, your friends can snuggle up in Canadian-made sheepskin slippers or moose moccasins from A Stable Way of Life, and their furry pals will love treats from an “unusual array of finds for the cat, dog and horse lover.” Valery: “We try to provide gift-giving choices that are both useful and that we are proud to sell!”
What can you buy that special women with beautiful curves and a strong fashion sense? Something More provides women with chic dazzling fashions in the latest styles that glorify their uniquely beautiful shape. Karen waxes poetic: “Timelessness is the embodiment of simplicity … For more than 30 years, we have been the intersection of timeless and trend … .”
Shirley beams about the Paper Chain: “It is the perfect store to explore – with one-of-a-kind hand chosen greeting cards. We have an amazing selection of unique gift ware.” Proud of their friendly service, they “welcome individual custom orders with many different product lines.”
Toying Around, also Shirley’s shop, is “a quaint experience for ages 1 to 99! We have an extensive selection of puzzles and games along with many popular toy lines. Our shop engages minds, inspires play and appeals to children’s creativity.”
Lily Pad Lingerie has something for everyone this season: exquisite undergarments, accessories, hand bags, lounge wear and much more. Connie welcomes festive shoppers: “Lily Pad Lingerie wants to be your ‘new favourite shop’ … from Prima Donna bras to PJ’s and robes for holiday gift giving.”
Is there an art lover on your list? Then head straight for The Gallery! Dawn is very enthusiastic: “We carry a wide selection of jewelry, pottery, metal work and paintings, by local artists and artisans from Victoria, Vancouver Island and across Canada. You are sure to find that perfect one-of-a-kind gift for someone special on your list.”
Finally, be sure you remember to buy a treat for that person in the mirror who is being so thoughtful during the holidays!
Contact: www.matticksfarm.com. Photos courtesy www.nuttycake.com.